By / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department
Traveling around the world, what leaves the deepest impression may not be the grand mountains and mighty rivers, but the quaint rural towns nestled deep in the countryside. With their rich historic charm and tranquil, elegant beauty, they encapsulate the passage of time and cultural history into a dreamlike scene resembling a paradise on earth, worthy of travelers’ careful appreciation.
Escape to these towns and let their secluded, breathtaking scenery heal the weary hearts of travelers. (Image source / from http://www.brodyaga.com/)
Italy — Burano Island
Burano Island on Lake Venice 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 now become a local landmark. Local residents must apply for government permission if they wish to repaint their homes. (Image source / from slowtraveltours.com)
Greece — Santorini
Santorini in the Aegean Sea features buildings in blue and white, set against the deep blue sea, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene that takes your breath away. It has long been a popular destination for couples. (Image source / from hdw.eweb4.com)
France — Colmar
Located in the heart of Alsace’s grape-growing region, the town of Colmar was once a center of local wine trade. Its excellent climate and terroir have also earned it the title “Capital of Wine.” The town’s historic architecture is another major draw for visitors. (Image source / from www.golberz.com)
USA, Georgia — Savannah
Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia and was also an important port during the American Revolution. The city boasts not only rich historical and cultural heritage but also spectacular oak tree scenery that visitors must see. (Image source / from hqworld.net)
USA, Rhode Island — Newport
Newport in southern Rhode Island is a summer retreat in New England. In addition to its numerous mansions, it also boasts the largest collection of preserved colonial-era buildings in the U.S., exuding a unique historical charm. (Image source / from www.theblaze.com)
Spain — Júzcar
Júzcar is a small town in Spain’s Andalusia region. Originally an all-white town, it was painted entirely blue to promote the movie “The Smurfs.” The houses were all repainted blue, and Smurf-themed murals were added to the walls, earning it the nickname “Smurf Village.” (Image source / from www.podwits.com)
Czech Republic — Český Krumlov
The town of Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic retains its medieval appearance in its town center, which is why it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Český Krumlov Castle is the second-largest ancient castle in the country after Prague Castle. (Image source / from www.bohemianshuttles.cz)
Netherlands — Giethoorn
Giethoorn in the Overijssel province of the Netherlands is known as the “Venice of the North” or “Dutch Venice.” The village replaces roads with canals, uses boats as the main mode of transport, and is surrounded by lush greenery — a scene so picturesque it feels like something out of a movie. (Image source / from www.topdreamer.com)
Italy — Alberobello
Alberobello in the province of Bari, Puglia region, Italy, was listed 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 / from www.worldfortravel.com)
England — Bibury
Artist William Morris called Bibury, located on the River Coln, “the most beautiful village in England.” The stone cottages built in the 17th century resemble landscape paintings, especially those on Arlington Row, whose serene beauty has appeared on the big screen many times. (Image source / 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 traditional gassho-style houses are concentrated in Shirakawa Village. From the Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observation Deck atop Shiroyama, the highest point, you can overlook rice paddies and a gently flowing river, with over a hundred triangular thatched-roof homes dotting the landscape. These unpretentious yet world-renowned thatched-roof houses blend harmoniously with the rich natural surroundings, forming a peaceful pastoral scene. (Image provided / by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Austria — Hallstatt
Once wealthy due to salt mining and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Austrian town of Hallstatt is near Lake Hallstatt. This old village has a population of just under 1,000 and is a popular tourist destination in the Salzkammergut region. (Image source / from www.inaresort.com)
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