Good news for travelers who pride themselves on finding hidden gem destinations: The UN World Tourism Office has released its third annual list of the Best Tourism Villages in the World. Since 2021, the UNWTO has scoured the globe for the most outstanding rural tourism destinations, each with its own strong cultural and natural value. The list is also an incredible resource for travelers who prefer immersive trips and pastoral destinations with an under-the-radar vibe.
The annual roster highlights villages that are “nurturing rural areas and preserving landscapes, cultural diversity, local values, and culinary traditions,” according to a UNWTO release. Much like UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each village must meet nine strict criteria, including environmental and social sustainability and the prioritization of tourism. “This initiative acknowledges villages that have harnessed tourism as a catalyst for their development and well-being,” Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary general of UNWTO said in a statement.
This year, 54 new villages across five continents were added to the ongoing list. All of the locales that made the cut are charming and historic destinations with breathtaking natural wonders like mountains, seaside cliffs, national parks, and more. Here’s a closer look at 11 new additions that caught our eye.
