The Witcher 3 includes a number of "Places of Power". These locations are areas of concentrated magic that appear in obscure locations throughout the map. Finding them without a general idea of where to look can be a painstaking task.
When Geralt is close to one of the places of power, his medallion will detect magic, if it is activated. This guide will cover the importance of the Places of Power, as well as where each place is located in Velen. Players that use the skill point and buff accordingly will make Geralt an unstoppable force on the hunt.
The Five Signs
Once players have found a Place of Power, they will receive a different buff depending on the Place's sign. The relative impact of the buff will depend on how players have upgraded their character throughout the game. Each alternative sign has relative strengths and weaknesses.
Quen
The Quen sign is a protective shield that blocks a small amount of damage. The sign will also increase stamina regeneration.
Axii
Axii is a magical sign used to manipulate the minds of enemies and monsters. In the Witcher 3, Geralt can use Axii to stun enemies and calm the fear level of a mount.
 Yrden
The Yrden sign is used to create a magical trap that slows, damages, and afflicts foes. The ability is effective when dealing with multiple enemies in close quarters.
Igni
Geralt can use the Igni sign to create a magical burst of fire that damages and knocks back enemies. The sign can be upgraded to produce a stream of fire.
Aard
The Aard sign is used to control telekinetic energy, stunning enemies and staggering them. Geralt can also use the sign to force open doors, as well as break deteriorating walls and extinguish fires.
Where To Find The Places Of Power In Velen
In the Witcher 3, Places of Power will grant Geralt one skill point if discovered. There are a finite amount of skill points in the game, and players will want to know the exact location of each one. Listed below is a general guide to finding each location. In total, there are six locations for players to discover in Velen.
North Of Lornruk
Lornruk is north of Heatherton on the western side of the map. Players will need to travel across the bridge to the small island. Once on the island, gamers will find the place of power on the southeast edge of the island below the cliffs.
Dragonslayer's Grotto
The next Place of Power is located right between Dragonslayer's Grotto and Downwarren. Gamers will find the location if they travel due northwest from the Downwarren sign.
Players will need to follow the path to the peak of the small mountain, where the Place of Power is located. Gamers will need to jump a gap to get there, so if there is no gap in the path, the player is in the wrong location.
West of Ancient Oak
Gamers can discover another Place of Power just to the west of Ancient Oak. After finding the previous location, gamers will need to head south past the Ruined Tower to the Ancient Oak. From there, Geralt will need to travel directly to the west. The location will be just off of the road that leads to the Crossroads.
South Frischlow
All the way to the south end of the map players will find the small town of Frischlow. To the south of the town in the marshes lies another Place of Power. Gamers will find the location if they peruse the outskirts of the peninsula, it will be south and slightly to the west from the town's sign. This Place of power can be a pain to locate. Players should look out for small mounds in the marshes. The location will also be surrounded by an open landscape.
West of Fyke Isle
Gamers will find the next Place of Power across the sea from Fyke Isle. The location is southeast of Duen Hen and northeast of the Byways. As a reference point, players should be exactly to the west of the small island on the western edge of Fyke Island. Gamers will need to enter the dungeon just to the north and head south to find the Place of Power, which is underground.
The Road To Bald Mountain
The final Place of Power in Velen is located on Bald Mountain in the south of the map. Players can reach the mountain by traveling east from Olena's Grove, or riding west from Destroyed Bastion. However, it will be easier to locate the Place of Power if gamers begin on the west side of the mountain and travel up the road to Bald Mountain. Players should follow the roads that wind up the mountain. The location is on the edge of the cliffs near the fork in the road at the top of the mountain.