Oia village on the Greek island of Santorini is among Europe’s 15 most breathtakingly beautiful villages, according to thrillist.com.
The travel portal notes that “nothing speaks more to the notion of serenity and quaintness than rural Europe. Think Lord of the Rings-style English villages, with relics dating back to a pre-industrial age, thatched-roof cottages, windmills, and market squares. Yes, these places still do exist, and they are what give modern Europe its rustic charm. And what’s more, Europe’s rich cultural diversity provides the modern traveler with a veritable mix of locations and cultures to select from — all replete with forts, castles, and local delicacies.”
It describes Oia as follows:
“Perched on the island community of Santorini and built atop a caldera (collapsed volcanic ridge), this old sea port — with its narrow lanes and white, sea-washed huts — offers amazing sunset views and picturesque scenery. Its lush architecture and dramatic setting over the Aegean Sea make this a thing of dreams.
Pro tip: The island was the setting for the opening scenes in Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life, but that still doesn’t salvage the film.”
The complete list of the 15 most picturesque villages that are worth going out of your way to visit when you’re in Europe includes:
1. Bled, Slovenia
2. Quedlinburg, Germany
3. Zermatt, Switzerland
4. Aigu?ze, France
5. Lacock, UK
6. Reine, Norway
7. Procida, Italy
8. Sintra, Portugal
9. Kor?ula, Croatia
10. Bickensohl, Germany
11. Vejer de la Frontera, Spain
12. Hallstatt, Austria
13. La Roque-Gageac, France
14. Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland
15. Oia, Santorini
Read more here.
RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
