15 Charming Remote Villages Welcoming Tourists with Open Arms

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Unmatched hospitality and authentic cultural experiences are being delivered to tourists in underdeveloped remote villages worldwide. In 2024, UNWTO reported that rural places are not just keeping traditions but are creating the future of sustainable tourism through experiences the urban ones can’t copy. Which are the most charming havens to visit? These remote villages are captivating travelers, offering culture, natural beauty, and warm welcomes in perfect balance.

According to experts, rural tourism will grow by 6% annually over the next decade. Rural communities worldwide have jumped into the scene—from UNESCO-recognized villages to little-known natural retreats—and have innovated their approach to tourism in ways that also safeguard their distinct identity.

Today, travelers want more than what to see: they want to connect. Remote villages offer that connection through cozy homestays, sharing a home-cooked meal, or catching glimpses of traditional life. Here are 15 exemplary villages in the burgeoning movement, each offering something unique tied together with some of the warmest hospitality.

Aosta Valley, Italy

Charming Remote Villages Welcoming Tourists with Open Arms — Image Credit: R Boed/Wikimedia Commons

Located between France and Switzerland, Aosta Valley is famous for its white-topped Alps and Roman heritage. It is known for its castles, fontina cheese, and locally crafted wine.

Insider Tip: In January, the streets are celebrated with the Saint Orso Fair, which brings artisans to present sculptures and masks.

Zlatibor, Serbia

The Zlatibor region in Serbia offers an attractive mix of adventure, wellness, and history. Established as a health resort in 1893, it remains a top choice for hiking, skiing, and breathing alpine air.

Its ethnic villages and serene nature parks allow visitors to connect with the beautiful Serbia hidden from sight.

Marvão, Portugal

On the Serra de São Mamede mountains, Marvão sits surrounded by breathtaking views of the Alto Alentejo countryside.

Visitors can stroll cobbled streets, visit Roman ruins, and return to the annual autumn Chestnut Festival, where roasted chestnuts are offered.

Brest, Belarus

Brest has a rich ethnographic heritage, captivating travelers with craft traditions, folk music and activities, fishery, and cycling.

Busljanka, amongst its eco-friendly farm tourism estates, promises a sustainable and enriching experience.

Slavonija, Croatia

If you want to escape the crowds of Croatia’s coastline, hide out in Slavonija, a region that thrives on lush landscapes, wine trails, and tamburica music performances.

There are hands-on activities such as horse riding, and you can taste some of the spicy local dishes cooked traditionally.

Villages of Papua New Guinea

Due to over 800 languages and rich tribal traditions, Papua New Guinea’s remote villages are some of the best places to immerse yourself in the culture.

Participating in village ceremonies such as the Fire Dance Festival and making your tools by hand is welcomed by visitors.

Maramureș, Romania

In northern Romania, tucked away, the region of Maramureș is called Europe’s last peasant culture. A UNESCO-sparked gem, visitors can stay in traditional wooden homes, feast on farm-to-table meals, and see the wooden churches themselves, which are architectural masterpieces. The region proudly counts eight churches listed as UNESCO Patrimony and has managed to preserve traditions that last for centuries.

Why visit? It’s a living museum of culture, with handwoven textiles, Folk dances, and unspoiled landscapes still waiting to be explored.

Lord Howe Island, Australia

The Ocean Geographic Society mentions that Lord Howe Island is a story of conservation success. Its visitors are limited to 400 at a time.

Without the hustle of crowds, explore secluded beaches, climb volcanic peaks, and snorkel with coral reefs.

Himarë, Albania

Himarë is a cozy seaside gem with pristine beaches and old charm. This tranquil corner of Europe is best known for its Ottoman-era landmarks, fresh seafood, and opportunity to chill.

Berat, Albania

Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town brings back history through its distinctive Ottoman architecture and iconic hillside homes while proving its Albanian hospitality in its best state.

Capulálpam de Méndez, Mexico

Nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains, this “Magical Town” invites visitors to experience indigenous traditions.

Nature-oriented activities such as eco hikes and medicinal workshops are available, and you can indulge in panoramic views of the countryside of Oaxaca.

Grand Baie, Mauritius

This bay is known for its crystal clear waters, sunny sunsets, and friendly locals. Grand Baie offers more than just water sports, with each visitor introduced to Creole culture through beautiful food, bustling craft markets, and expertly made artisan crafts.

Kalopanagiotis, Cyprus

Know for its relaxing hot springs and monasteries, Kalopanagiotis is a place to relax. This Cypriot village is home to modern luxury blended with rustic charm and draws wellness tourism.

Pissouri, Cyprus

Pissouri charms visitors between mountains and the sea with genuine Cypriot life—made up of traditional taverns serving up meze and tranquil vineyards dotting the surrounding hills. It’s among the UNWTO’s “Best Tourism Villages“ list for 2024.

Ruboni, Uganda

Ruboni is a gateway to vibrant rural Uganda and lies alongside the Rwenzori Mountains. Visitors can enjoy cultural walks, participate in village dances, and marvel at panoramic views of Africa’s “Mountains of the Moon.”

Each of the 15 villages listed presents interesting opportunities to make genuine connections, experience unspoiled character, and practice slower, more thoughtful tourism. Are you ready to step off the beaten path? Comment below with your dream rural destination—or better yet, start planning a trip to one of these unforgettable villages today!

Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.