Two Ukrainian villages have been included in the list of the best in the world: where are they located?

Two picturesque villages in Zakarpattia have gained worldwide recognition by being included in the UNWTO's list of the best tourist villages on the planet. They were chosen for their unique atmosphere, preservation of traditions, and sustainable tourism development. Find out what these corners of Ukraine are famous for

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Two picturesque villages in Zakarpattia — Kolochava and Synevyrska Polyana — have been included in the list of the world's best tourist villages according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). This was reported by the Department of Tourism and Resorts of the Zakarpattia Regional State Administration.

The official award ceremony for the Best Tourism Villages programme, considered one of the most prestigious initiatives in the field of sustainable rural tourism development, took place in the Chinese city of Huizhou. Every year, it recognises settlements where tourism is harmoniously combined with traditions, environmental awareness and the development of local communities.

Among this year's winners are the village of ten museums Kolochava and Synevyrska Polyana, located near the legendary ‘Eye of the Carpathians’ — Lake Synevyr. Both settlements have become a hallmark of authentic Ukrainian tourism and an example of how local communities can use tourism to preserve their cultural identity and improve their quality of life.

The village of ten museums — Kolochava

Kolochava is a real open-air museum. There are more than ten museum sites here that introduce visitors to the way of life of the Hutsuls, Boikos and Lemkos, the history of the railway, education, the police, and the heroes of Carpathian Ukraine. The village preserves the spirit of ancient Transcarpathia, while also having a developed tourist infrastructure — from ethno-hotels to gastronomic locations.

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Synevyrska Polyana — in the heart of the Carpathians

Synevyrska Polyana is located near the most famous lake in Ukraine — Synevyr. It is a place where nature, legends, and modern ecotourism come together. Green tourism, holidays in private estates and trips along the eco-trails of the Synevyr National Nature Park are actively developing here.

The Best Tourism Villages programme has been operating under the auspices of the UNWTO for the fourth year in a row. It recognises communities that prove that tourism can be not only an economic tool but also a way to preserve cultural and natural heritage. During this time, more than 800 villages from 100 countries have applied, and today the Best Tourism Villages network brings together more than 250 villages from 60 countries.

Would you like to see the legendary Lake Synevyr, experience the atmosphere of Kolochava or walk the trails of the Carpathians? On the Visit Ukraine portal, you will find the best tours in Transcarpathia — from short weekends to multi-day spa trips in the mountains.

Reminder! Truskavets is one of the cosiest resorts in Ukraine, combining nature, traditions and an atmosphere of tranquillity. Here you can not only improve your health, but also enjoy walks in ancient parks, panoramic views from the mountains and cultural attractions. Find out where to go, what to see and how to spend the perfect weekend in Truskavets.

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