If you want to head off the beaten track of cities and coast lines, then head inland for a collection of global villages waiting to be explored. The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has compiled a list of Best Tourism Villages to visit.
Best Tourism Villages List
The accolade recognizes villages leading the way in nurturing rural areas and preserving landscapes, cultural diversity, local values, and culinary traditions. In this latest edition, UNWTO selected 54 villages from all regions from almost 260 applications. They are now part of the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages Network.
The villages are assessed on nine key areas, such as economic, environmental and social sustainability, tourism development and conservation of cultural resources. Here’s a few of the villages that made the list:
Barrancas, Chile
Nestled in the heart of Chile’s O’Higgins region, Barrancas invites adventurers to embark on an enchanting journey through its vibrant cultural heritage. This picturesque place is famous for its ancient salt mines, where sea salt is meticulously extracted using ancient techniques, dating back to pre-Hispanic times.
In 2011, the Chilean government awarded the title of “Living Human Treasures” to a group of artisans united in the Cooperativa de Salineros de Barrancas. These remarkable salt workers have not only preserved, but also developed a sustainable model of salt production, harmoniously combining craftsmanship with the gifts of nature.
Barrancas also offers more natural wonders to explore. The Laguna Cáhuil Wetland, a mixed-water wetland, originated at the mouth of the Nilahue estuary, merges with the sea to the west through an opening towards the Pacific Ocean. Activities such as canoeing, swimming, sport fishing, and observation of flora and fauna await on the Laguna Cáhuil Wetland.
Al Sela, Jordan
The village is located on the path of migration of soaring birds. Al Sela has unique natural and cultural features including scenic nature and the beautiful landscape of valleys, mountains and plateaus, as well as the presence of many perennial trees such as Romanian olives and distinctive and rare vegetation cover at the local level, which is an extension of the natural pattern of Wadi Feynan and the Dana Nature Reserve.
Hakuba, Japan
Nestled in the pristine Japanese Alps of Nagano Prefecture lies Hakuba, a remarkable destination where tradition seamlessly merges with sustainability. Its story harks back to the birth of the “minshuku” culture—a cherished tradition where locals, often mountain guides and farmers, warmly welcomed mountaineers and skiers into their homes.
Here, travelers not only found shelter but also enjoyed local cuisine crafted from rice and vegetables cultivated on these very farms. This genuine hospitality laid the foundation for a spirit of resourcefulness and community that continues to thrive in Hakuba, transforming it into a globally renowned resort celebrated for authenticity and warmth.
Hakuba Village, known as Hakuba-mura in Japanese, is in the eastern foothills of the Hida Mountains, situated in the northern part of the Japanese Alps. While Hakuba is renowned as a prominent ski resort destination, it also serves as the gateway for embarking on treks up Mount Shirouma and Mount Goryu, two prominent peaks among Japan’s One Hundred Mountains.
Lerici, Italy
Nestled in the embrace of the Mediterranean Sea, Lerici is an idyllic haven, seamlessly blending nature’s beauty, cultural richness, and a commitment to sustainable progress. This enchanting village, with its mild climate and lush hills, offers a welcoming sanctuary for tourists seeking a harmonious blend of relaxation and adventure.
Lerici has captivating landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and the richness of natural sites, culinary traditions, and ancient culture. It also stands proudly as the capital of the “Poets Gulf,” a title forged in 1910 by Sem Benelli and a vibrant hub of cultural events, including the Lerici Music Festival and Lerici Live summer festival.
Lerici’s historical significance is underlined by its inclusion in the Montemarcello Magra-Vara Regional Natural Park, with its breathtaking landscapes between the river Magra and the Cinque Terre National Park.
Ordino, Andorra
Ordino is a village located in the northwest of the Principality of Andorra, the Country of the Pyrenees. Designated as a Biosphere Reserve since October 2020, Ordino, situated at an altitude of 1,300 meters, serves as an exemplary model of integration into a natural environment while preserving its rural traditions and customs.
The four seasons of the year are distinctly marked by significant changes in meteorological variables, especially in temperatures and precipitation, which influence agricultural, livestock, and tourism activities. The village offers authentic tourist experiences, cultural routes, and guided excursions based on its cultural and natural heritage.
Paucartmano, Peru
Paucartambo is a town located in the South Andean region, which has succeeded in preserving its architecture, culture and traditions. Tourists can walk through its narrow and stony streets and admire its squares and houses with traditional balconies.
Paucartambo is considered as the folkloric capital of the region, for its magnificent history and mixture of cultures. It is worth mentioning the 17th century temple dedicated to the Virgin Mary, whose main altar is of neoclassical style and a silver-plated finish. Another architectural jewel is the imposing colonial bridge made of lime and stone “Carlos III”, and built by order of King Carlos III of Spain in 1775.
Paucartambo is home to one of the most important high Andean communities, the community of the Q’eros also known as the guardians of the wisdom of the Andes. Considered the “Last Inca Ayllu”, or the last Inca community in Peru, the Q’eros strive to preserve and promote their indigenous cultural and ethnic identity.
Sirince, Turkiye
Şirince, a former Greek Orthodox settlement dating back to BC 5th, and located in the Aegean İzmir’s Selçuk, surrounded by the Ancient City of Ephesus, Temple of Arthemis and House of the Virgin Mary.
The authenticity, cultural and historical value is preserved in its architecture, traditional village lifestyle and heritage, by the collaborative efforts of the local people and respective public institutions.
For more information about UNWTO’s villages: Click Here.
Andy Probert is an experienced freelance business travel journalist and PR specialist.
