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As travelers become increasingly conscious of environmental and social impacts, the United Nations has recently unveiled a list of the world's best villages, highlighting destinations that offer unique and authentic travel experiences while safeguarding their natural resources and cultural heritage.

The selected villages were evaluated based on their measures to preserve cultural and natural resources, economic sustainability, environmental practices, and social impact. By showcasing these remarkable places, the UN hopes to inspire travelers to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and support local communities.

Click through this gallery to explore some of these incredible villages and discover why they've earned a spot on the UN's list!

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Considered one of Spain's best-preserved medieval villages, Aínsa blends natural beauty with cultural heritage. The village's medieval walls enclose Romanesque architecture and picturesque streets, offering a delightful journey through time.

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The seemingly peaceful village is also known for its resilient community. Goat and sheep shepherds, who brave the harsh terrain to tend to their flocks, are known to represent the region's spirit. The village also holds a key archaeological site of the ancient Minoan civilization.

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Nestled into the mountainside, Capulálpam de Méndez offers breathtaking views and a connection to nature. Designated as a "Pueblo Mágico," or Magical Town, by the Mexican Ministry of Tourism, the ancestral village is home to the Zapotec people, the third-largest indigenous group in Mexico.

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This Patagonian gem offers stunning landscapes, from the serene Hualcupen lagoon to the majestic Copahue volcano. Its thermal springs, ancient forests, and waterfalls attract outdoor enthusiasts, and during colder months, the village turns into a winter wonderland.

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This Ecuadorian village is home to the Cañari people, whose rich traditions and customs have been passed down through generations. The region's stunning landscapes, ancient archaeological sites, and vibrant festivals, such as the moon-honoring Killa Raymi, attract thousands of visitors yearly.

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This enchanting valley is also a biodiversity hotspot. Known as the birthplace of the Golden Frog, the valley is an important conservation and scientific research hub. Additionally, the region played a crucial role in Panama's resistance against the Spanish conquest, adding to its historical significance.

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This charming Nubian village on Aswan's Nile bank captivates visitors with its colorful houses, vibrant crafts, and rich cultural heritage. This picturesque destination offers a glimpse into the ancient Nubian civilization, preserving the traditions and customs of the people who have shaped this region for millennia.

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Once a fishing village, this coastal town now thrives as a popular tourist destination. Known for its stunning beaches, diverse landscapes, and outdoor activities, the region also counts on a community committed to environmental conservation and sustainable development.

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Located in the heart of Nor Yauyos Cochas Landscape Reserve, the village invites visitors to explore its stunning natural beauty and unique Inca history. Turquoise lagoons, deep canyons, and cascading waterfalls offer a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures like boating, kayaking, and fishing.

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This idyllic village offers a serene escape amidst the rolling hills of Colombia's coffee region. Visitors can savor delicious coffee while admiring the charming colonial architecture, and embark on eco-adventures in the surrounding forests and waterfalls.

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Jatiluwih's breathtaking terraced rice fields, a marvel of ancient Balinese engineering, are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The annual Jatiluwih Festival celebrates local culture and traditions, featuring a mesmerizing Rejang Kesari dance performance by 400 dancers.

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This charming village nestled amidst the verdant Troodos Mountains is known for its traditional architecture. Cobblestone streets, historic churches, and tiled-roof houses offer a glimpse into Cyprus's past.

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Originally inhabited by the Yumbo-Nigua people, Mindo has evolved into a culturally diverse community. Influenced by settlers from Esmeraldas, Carchi, and Colombia, the village has transformed from a center for rubber and incense collection into a thriving hub for ecotourism and sustainable development.

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This well-preserved medieval village is nestled just 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of Lisbon. Its imposing castle, narrow cobblestone streets, and whitewashed houses create a picturesque setting, perfect for its medieval festival, offering traditional music, dance, and cuisine. Visitors can also savor the local cherry liqueur, Ginjinha, often served in a unique edible chocolate cup.

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An ancient Roman city turned 600-resident village, Ormana boasts a rich history and unique architecture. The village is renowned for its "button houses," ingenious structures built without mortar, using local stone and cedar wood.

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This charming village provides immersive experiences that connect visitors with the local landscape, traditions, and products. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, hike through scenic trails, and learn about local traditions like Sultanina grape cultivation and halloumi cheesemaking.

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This charming municipality of around 1,600 residents thrives on its therapeutic thermal waters and historical heritage, positioning itself as a top wellness destination in Europe. It also boasts an impressive archaeological site with 24 beautifully preserved bronze statues that add to the region's idyllic aura.

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Renowned for its agricultural products, including coffee, avocado, and nispero, this charming village is committed to sustainable tourism. With a population of around 5,524 inhabitants, the village offers visitors an authentic experience rooted in local customs and community engagement.

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Established in 1776 and known as the "Stone Village," Sibayo is a captivating destination that showcases its unique architectural heritage through traditional stone and adobe structures adorned with straw roofs. The village prioritizes the promotion of its cultural identity, including artisanal crafts, folklore, cuisine, and architecture.

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Nestled high in the Swiss Alps at an altitude of 4,757 feet (1,450 meters), this picturesque village embodies the quintessential Alpine charm. With its stunning natural landscapes, including crystal-clear lakes and a glacial environment, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

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This vibrant market town, with a history dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries, has evolved into a thriving community of 9,885 residents. St. Johann offers diverse community events and tourism activities, from winter sports to summer hiking and biking.

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Built around 111 BC, this ancient village in Sichuan Province is renowned for its unique fortress-like structures. Designed in the shape of the Eight Trigrams, the village features eight entrances, 31 interconnected passages, and hidden shooting holes, a defensive strategy against potential threats.

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Established over 500 years ago, this village has evolved from a fishing community into a thriving agricultural hub. Surrounded by the Cổ Cò River and Trà Quế Lagoon, it allows locals to cultivate a diverse range of vegetables. Known for its high-quality, organic produce, the village caters to health-conscious consumers, including tourists seeking nutritious options.

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Nestled at the base of the Andes Mountain range, this region boasts a rich cultural heritage shaped by its indigenous inhabitants and Welsh settlers. The area is renowned for its fertile land, producing a diverse range of crops including grapes, wheat, red fruits, honey, saffron, and tulips, which create a stunning tapestry across the landscape.

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Nestled deep within the Guatemalan rainforest, the village is a portal to the ancient Maya civilization, with its well-preserved temples and intricate stone carvings. By sustainably harvesting and selling local produce, residents contribute to conservation efforts, ensuring the Mayan legacy lives on.

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This picturesque mountain resort offers stunning views and a range of outdoor activities. Known for its rich sporting history, including ski racing and ski jumping, the town continues to attract visitors seeking adventure and relaxation.

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This picturesque village south of Yogyakarta is renowned for its artistic heritage and community-driven tourism. The village's artisans craft exquisite shadow puppets, a UNESCO-recognized art form.

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This historic landmark is renowned as the birthplace of China's rural reform. A small group of villagers dared to challenge the status quo in 1978 by dividing the commune-owned farmland into individual plots, a bold move that would transform China's rural landscape.

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Known for its pristine ecology and diverse biodiversity, the region is home to over 1,270 living species, including the rare black muntjac and giant salamander. Xitou is also renowned for its millennium-long tradition of celadon porcelain crafting, a UNESCO-recognized Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Source: (UN Tourism Best Tourism Villages)