Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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October 20, 2025 Sustainable Development Goals
The World Tourism Organization has announced this year's list of the best tourism villages. It includes 52 rural settlements from around the world recognized as global leaders in sustainable tourism and community development. Among them are Kolochava and Synevyrska Polyana in Ukraine, and Khinalig in Azerbaijan.
UN agency Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili noted that tourism has the potential to become "a powerful tool for achieving shared prosperity, inclusive growth, and territorial cohesion in rural areas."
Total in the global network rural tourist destinations, which promotes sustainable development, now includes 319 villages worldwide.
Caucasian Antiquity: Azerbaijani Khinalig
At an altitude of over 2,000 meters in the Caucasus Mountains lies Khinalig, one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, with a history dating back approximately 5,000 years. The village is home to a semi-nomadic people whose culture and way of life are shaped by seasonal migrations between summer and winter pastures and who preserve the ancient method of vertically moving livestock over long distances. The organically developed network, including ancient routes, temporary pastures and campsites, mausoleums, and mosques, demonstrates a resilient eco-social system adapted to extreme environmental conditions.
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The Heart of the Carpathians: Ukrainian Villages Preserving Nature and Traditions
Kolochava, located in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains within the Synevyr National Park, is a living open-air museum where history, culture, and nature blend harmoniously. Its history reflects the diverse heritage of the region, which over the centuries was influenced by several states—from Austria-Hungary and Czechoslovakia to Romania and Hungary. This is reflected in the richness of cultural traditions, languages, and crafts that survive to this day. The village is renowned for its ten museums, craft traditions, and culinary heritage. Ancient crafts—from weaving and wood carving to cheesemaking—are being revived here. Local residents are actively developing ecotourism, hosting festivals and environmental events, creating 3D tours, inviting travelers to discover the Carpathians in a sustainable way.
© Wiki Commons/Moahim
Neighboring Synevyrska Polyana, mentioned as early as 1465, is known as the "Pearl of the Carpathians." Also located in the Synevyr National Park, the village is surrounded by primeval beech forests and famous for its eponymous lake, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Ukraine. The local community develops ecotourism and spa services, offers ethnographic programs, craft workshops, and traditional cuisine tastings, creating jobs and supporting local producers. Through the SynevyrECO initiative, local artisans and farmers unite to promote eco-friendly products and sustainable tourism, creating new jobs and strengthening the region's economy.
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