Two Ukrainian villages among world's 55 best for tourism

The initiative aims to highlight villages where tourism helps preserve culture, traditions, and biodiversity.

Winners were announced during the 122nd session of the UN Tourism Executive Council in Colombia. Entries were selected by an advisory board from over 260 participants across 60 countries.

Official awards will be presented on November 28 at the third National Tourism Summit in Lviv. Representatives from UN Tourism, including Beqa Jakeli, Director of External Relations, and Cordula Wohlmuther, Regional Director for Europe, will lead the ceremony

"Urych and Vorokhta will receive mentorship from UN Tourism, potential financial support from international donors, and increased attention to their cultural, natural, and culinary wealth from both Ukrainian and foreign travelers," said Mariana Oleskiv, Chairperson of the State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine.

This year, the agency also nominated the villages of Zelenyi Hai, Kvasy, and Olyka for the list.

Urych is renowned for its historical and cultural reserve Tustan, showcasing medieval architecture and breathtaking Carpathian landscapes.

Vorokhta is celebrated as a jewel of the Ukrainian Carpathians, featuring unique natural beauty, Hutsul culture, and picturesque wooden churches.