The Ukrainian villages of Kolochava and Synevyrska Polyana, located in Zakarpattia, have been included in the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) ranking of the world’s best tourist villages. This recognition is further confirmation of the Carpathians’ appeal to tourists and the development of local tourism in Ukraine.
This year’s UNWTO ranking includes 52 villages from different continents — Africa, America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. They were selected from more than 270 applications submitted by 65 member countries of the organisation. Another 20 settlements joined the renewal programme aimed at developing sustainable tourism, preserving cultural heritage and ecological balance. All 72 settlements became part of the international network of Best Tourism Villages (BTV).
According to the UNWTO, the list includes communities that harmoniously combine natural resources, cultural authenticity and responsible development. Such villages demonstrate an example of preserving traditions, supporting the local economy and social cohesion.
Kolochava attracts tourists with its historical atmosphere and variety of cultural locations. Mountain routes to the Krasna and Kvasny Verkh ridges, as well as to the village of Ust-Chorna, pass through it. Here you can visit the Bird Park and ten museums, the most famous of which are the Old Village, Kolochava Narrow-Gauge Railway, and Shtaier’s Bunker.
Synevyrska Polyana is known for its eco-park, ‘Valley of the Wolves,’ which is home to various species of animals, from wolves and deer to camels and goats. Some of the animals were rescued from circuses and private zoos, while others ended up here after being injured or exhausted. Those that can be rehabilitated are returned to the wild.
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