By the MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network Editorial Team
Traveling around the world, what leaves the deepest impression isn’t necessarily majestic mountains or vast waters, but quaint rural towns nestled deep in the countryside—where an old-world charm and serene, picturesque scenery encapsulate the flow of time and historical culture into dreamlike views reminiscent of a paradise on earth, worthy of travelers' careful appreciation.
Retreat into these towns and let their otherworldly beauty heal your weary soul. (Image source / taken from http://www.brodyaga.com/)
Italy — Burano Island
The Venetian island of Burano in Italy is famous for its lace weaving. The colorful buildings originated from local fishermen needing to see their way home through the thick fog, and have since become a distinctive local landmark. Residents must obtain permission from the government if they wish to repaint their homes. (Image source / taken from slowtraveltours.com)
Greece — Santorini
Santorini in the Aegean Sea features buildings painted in striking blue and white, set against the backdrop of the deep blue sea—a breathtaking sight that takes your breath away and has long been a popular destination for couples. (Image source / taken from hdw.eweb4.com)
France — Colmar
Located at the heart of Alsace’s wine region, the town of Colmar was once a hub for local wine trade. Blessed with excellent climate and terroir, it has earned the nickname “Capital of Wine.” Its well-preserved historic architecture is another major draw for visitors. (Image source / taken from www.golberz.com)
USA, Georgia — Savannah
Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia and an important port during the American Revolution. The city is not only rich in cultural and historical heritage, but also boasts magnificent oak tree landscapes that are a must-see for tourists. (Image source / taken from hqworld.net)
USA, Rhode Island — Newport
Newport in southern Rhode Island is a summer retreat in New England. The area is not only home to countless mansions, but also has the highest number of well-preserved colonial-era buildings in the U.S., exuding a unique historic charm. (Image source / taken from www.theblaze.com)
Spain — Júzcar
Júzcar is a small town in Spain’s Andalusia region. Originally an all-white village, it was painted entirely blue for the promotion of the movie “The Smurfs,” with Smurf-themed murals added to the walls—earning it the nickname “Smurf Village.” (Image source / taken from www.podwits.com)
Czech Republic — Český Krumlov
The Czech town of Český Krumlov has a town center that has retained its medieval appearance in its entirety, earning it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The Český Krumlov Castle is the second-largest ancient castle in the country after Prague Castle. (Image source / taken from www.bohemianshuttles.cz)
Netherlands — Giethoorn
Giethoorn in the Overijssel province of the Netherlands is known as the “Venice of the North” or “Venice of the Netherlands.” The village replaces roads with canals and uses boats as the main mode of transport. Surrounded by lush greenery, its movie-like scenery is truly memorable. (Image source / taken from www.topdreamer.com)
Italy — Alberobello
Alberobello in Italy’s Puglia region, within the province of Bari, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The most distinctive feature of the local architecture is its whitewashed lime walls and conical roofs made of gray flat stones. (Image source / taken from www.worldfortravel.com)
England — Bibury
The artist William Morris called Bibury, located on the River Coln, “the most beautiful village in England.” The 17th-century stone cottages resemble a landscape painting, especially those along Arlington Row, whose serene and picturesque scenes have appeared on the big screen multiple times. (Image source / taken from lostpastremembered.blogspot.tw)
Japan — Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go is located in Gifu Prefecture, near the borders of Toyama and Ishikawa prefectures, with a population of about 1,900. Its iconic gassho-style houses are concentrated in Ogimachi. From the top of Shiroyama Hill at the Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observatory, you can look down over rice fields and a quietly flowing river, with over a hundred triangular thatched-roof houses dotting the landscape. These modest yet world-renowned thatched homes, together with the rich natural surroundings, form a harmonious pastoral scene. (Image provided / Moleskine Editorial Department)
Austria — Hallstatt
Hallstatt, Austria, once wealthy due to its salt mines and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located near Lake Hallstatt. This small ancient village has a population of just under a thousand and is a popular tourist destination in the Salzkammergut region. (Image source / taken from www.inaresort.com)
● The World’s Most Unique Scenic Wonders »»
Climb the World’s Most Beautiful “Staircase” and Experience the Imagination of Foreign Architecture
www.mook.com.tw/article.php?op=articleinfo&articleid=9319