Every urban dweller dream of escaping the busy cosmopolitan and seek escape into the tranquillity of nature. While nature offers thousands of blessings in the form of dazzling beaches, seas stretching all along the hillside, and pristine forests — there is nothing better than visiting a village to feel the true essence of it, to escape the swamped tourist spots. It is not only a pleasure to the heart, but also a step towards sustainability, and boosting the cultural spirit of local communities. While the holidays are still, now is the perfect time to plan a staycation in the countryside while avoiding overcrowded tourist centres.
Here are 7 such villages you must visit in your lifetime:
Hallstatt, Austria
Perched in Austria's hilly Salzkammergut region, Hallstatt is the most photogenic spot you could find yourself lost in. Other than indulging in the serenity of the village, take a boat ride from Hallstatt Lahn to Obertraun on their traditional boats, called Fuhr, a part of UNESCO's "Intangible Cultural Heritage." This place is perfect for winter holidays and pack some ski gears as you will step onto a whole new experience at the ski resort in Dachstein West. Even if you come in the summer, around June, you won't be left bored, as the locals celebrate the summer solstice through their traditional Solstice bonfire.
Located 79 km from Hallstatt is the oldest salt mine in the world and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Salzburg. You can even enjoy rides on the mountain cable cars, known as "Salzbergbahn" while you stare at the panoramic views of the alpine landscape from the World Heritage Skywalk. If you are looking for some creepy additions to your travel itinerary, don't miss the Bone House or ossuary in St Michael's Chapel.
Marsaxlokk, Malta
Marsaxlokk is famous for its colourful and vibrant Luzzu Boats that can take you on an expedition to the Maltese islands. It is a heaven for any fish lover, starting from the busy fish markets on Sundays to the mouth-watering dishes at the local fish restaurants. Whether you are snorkelling or swimming in St Peter's pool, the crystal-clear waters will mesmerise you. If you want to escape from the crowd at St Peter's pool in summer, the tranquil cliffs and waters at Kalanka Bay are there to soothe your soul.
This village is home to many archaeological sites, like Fort San Lucian, Fort Delimara and Fort Tas-Silġ. Walking along the promenades of Xrobb l-Għaġin Natural Park on a warm afternoon, you can feel the Mediterranean aura and the salty air. A quintessential part of Maltese culture is the Marsaxlokk Parish Church, which also features artworks by Maltese artist, Giuseppe Cali. Ghar Dalam Cave, situated 4 km from Marsaxlokk is the perfect place to entangle yourself in the Paleolithic cave art and hidden mysteries of ancient times.
Oia, Greece
Oia is the most visited village in Santorini and is just 12 km away from Fira, the capital of Santorini. Situated against the blue waters of Santorini Island and the calderas, Oia has the best sunset to quench any traveller's thirst. The Castle of St Nicholas, the 15th century Byzantine castle, is a 7-minute walk from the village, and is one of the best places to witness this sunset.
The vibrant blue shades of the domes of the Anastasis Church and the Church of Panagia, the whitewashed Cycladic architecture, and the sparkling blue water of the Aegean Sea in the backdrop will certainly make you fall in love with Oia's timeless blue beauty. It is where the golden hues from the sand meet the earthy clay-white Greek architecture. Whether you want to roam around with a car enjoying the fresh air and the side-views on the road or set on a river cruise to feel the salty humid breeze, the sight of the village itself is gripping.
Giethoorn, Netherlands
In the sprawl of growing urbanisation, a village without roads sounds like a storybook village, doesn't it? Well, Giethoorn, also known as the "Venice of Netherlands," stands alone as the village with no road. It consists mainly of canals connected by 176 bridges alongside thatched-roof cottages and sidewalks full of lush greenery. During the winter season, ice skating amidst the snow-covered landscape is an unforgettable experience for any tourist.
Navigating through the village on the traditional "whisper boats" while listening to the quiet harmonisation of nature — life flows at a much slower pace in this tranquil area. Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus, the museum at Giethoorn is a must-visit for a deep delve into Dutch culture and the history of this village. Staring at the river as the water flows by with the flow of life, while sipping on a cup of coffee straight beside a canal in a natural heaven like this is the dream of every nature enthusiast!
Guatapé, Colombia
Guatapé is every painter's ultimate destiny. The park, called Plazoleta de Los Zócalos, is full of vividly coloured murals that turn the village into a kaleidoscope of colours. These not only resemble the happiness and liveliness of the city, but are also a symbol of the rich culture and tradition of the village. Go kayaking in Guatapé-El Peñol reservoir and find yourself in the labyrinth of beauty that awaits. From water-skiing to paragliding, this village provides a lifetime experience for anyone.
If you are an adventurous person, consider climbing up the 740 steps of "El Peñón de Guatapé," also known as "The Rock of Guatapé," to enjoy a breath-taking view of the village from the top.
Penglipuran, Bali
Take a 1 hour 30 mins drive from Bali and visit Bali's cleanest ancient village Penglipuran, in the Bangli Regency of Bali. Every step in this village is full of awe, with the Balinese traditions and the warm welcome of the traditional people. Pura Penataran, Pura Dalem, and Pura Puseh are some of the popular temples in this village, where devotees celebrate traditions like Galungan day, the Balinese celebration where people connect with God. A special heritage of Penglipuran is its famous Bamboo Forest and centring these sacred trees are the beautiful bamboo handicrafts like keben lukis (painted bamboo weaves).
For any food lover visiting Bali, its local food, "tipat cantok" and Balinese drink, "loloh cemcem" is a must-try to experience the rich flavourful cuisine of Penglipuran. The sky-high colourful penjors in the sidewalk, stone carved buildings, and the hymns of Barong performances at the temples will certainly take you to an uncharted territory away from the bustling city centre.
Castle Combe, England
Want to immerse yourself in the serenity of the countryside? Castle Combre might just be the place for you. With every step, you will feel like you have travelled through time to Bridgerton. If you are looking for British high tea, visit The Old Refectory Pop-up Tearoom for a wholesome experience and savoury dishes. Here, you will find the faceless Castle Combe Clock, the oldest English medieval clock at the Church of St Andrew.
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