The villages of Urych and Vorokhta, located in the Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk regions of Ukraine, have been included in the "Best Tourism Villages" list by the UN World Tourism Organization (WTO).
This was announced by the Lviv Regional Council.
Urich is famous for the remains of the Tustan Fortress, which attract many tourists.
"Nestled in the stunning landscapes of the Lviv region, Urych is a charming village that epitomizes the rich cultural heritage of Ukraine. Surrounded by the majestic Carpathian Mountains and the lush forests of the Skolivski Beskydy National Nature Park, Urych offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. As a leader in heritage tourism, Urych not only showcases its historical and cultural treasures but also emphasizes sustainable tourism practices, creating an immersive experience for visitors while ensuring the protection of its unique heritage," states The Best Tourism Villages website.
As for Vorokhta, experts praised its picturesque nature, amidst which the village is located.
"Vorokhta is a picturesque mountain resort nestled in the Ukrainian Carpathians at an altitude of 850 meters above sea level. Located along the pristine Prut River and surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, this charming town offers a rich natural environment that promotes health and wellness, thanks to its vitamin D-rich climate. Vorokhta is not only a sanctuary for relaxation but also a vibrant hub for adventure, boasting a variety of accommodations, from hotels to guesthouses," experts noted.
The winners were announced at the 122nd session of the UN World Tourism Organization's Executive Council in Cartagena, Colombia. The award ceremony will take place on November 28 at the 3rd National Tourism Summit in Lviv, as reported by the State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine.
The Best Tourism Villages initiative was launched in 2021 to promote rural tourism, preserve landscapes, cultural diversity, local values, and culinary traditions. Currently, 254 villages from around the world are part of the network.
Applications from competitors were selected by members of the Advisory Council among 260 participants from more than 60 countries.
