Traveling continues to be one of our favorite plans in the new year that is just beginning, and even more so if what we do is go to a rural destination where we can disconnect from the big city to connect with nature. That’s why discovering new places thanks to tourism experts.
The World Tourism Organization compiles every year a list of Best Tourism Villages, a list of the best rural destinations in the world. This year, three more Spanish towns join the chosen destinations and together with Morella in Castellón and Lekunberri in Navarrawhich were already included last year, join the list of the best rural destinations in the world.
Of the 136 candidates this year, only 32 have met the requirements. And it is that the organization only chooses those populations that work with responsible tourism as an engine of change of its economy, and in this new list, three Spanish towns are added to that list.
Rupit in Barcelona
Rupit i Pruit is a medieval town less than two hours from Barcelona that falls in love with its narrow streets and its suspension bridge and that has slipped into this list of best rural destinations because it is a true paradise. Not only because of its historic center, well preserved and rich in history, but also because it is surrounded by impressive nature.
With just 285 inhabitants, it is the perfect place for a quiet getaway where you can go hiking, visit its impressive waterfalls and get lost in its cobbled stone streets.
Alquezar in Huesca
Between limestone landscapes, and in the Somontano of Huesca, we find the small town of Alquézar. It is located at the top of a meander of the Vero River, with spectacular views and a natural environment conducive to canyoning in the river canyon, visiting its famous walkway route and even seeing caves with rock art.
It has become one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Spain thanks to its historic complex, where we can enjoy the collegiate church of Santa María or the Plaza Mayor, and its Sonrisa de viento viewpoint is a must, where you can enjoy a spectacular sunset over this picturesque town in Huesca.
Guadalupe in Cáceres
We are going to Extremadura to taste its wonderful gastronomy and to visit the town of Guadalupe, the third of those that have entered the list of the best rural destinations in the world. The streets of Guadalupe, full of flowers in spring, are an obligatory stop, but it hides much more.
This small town in the interior of Cáceres has a spectacular monastery so architecturally rich that just to see it would be worth the visit. Mudejar, Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance and Neoclassical styles come together in the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe, consecrated in the 14th century and steeped in history.
Photos | iStock
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