Visit these historic European cities for a magical fairy tale escape
When it comes to towns and villages worthy of a Brothers Grimm story, there's no place quite like Europe.
From snow-capped settlements at the edge of the world to whitewashed cities carved into cliffsides, there is fairy tale magic to be found in each of these European destinations.
Setenil de las Bodegas, Spain
Nestled among the olive groves of northeastern Cadiz is Setenil de las Bodegas, a 12th-century town carved entirely of rock.
Until recently, economic hardship and a lack of opportunities for young people kept this historic white pueblo (Setenil was one of the last strongholds of the Moorish Empire) on the brink of collapse.
But a recent investment in Setenil de las Bodegas has brought this beautiful Andalusian city back to life. The restored cave house now serves as a stylish Airbnb and boutique home, and underground wine bars, restaurants, and specialty food shops selling the region's famous cold cuts and olive oils line the cobblestoned streets.
While you're here, be sure to try the sopa cortijera, a soup made of tomatoes and green peppers topped with asparagus, preserved ham and poached egg.
setenil de las Bodegas is a Spanish town built on the side of a cliff. |
Albertoello, Italy
The fantasy-like land of Alberobello in Puglia is a city of over 1500 Trulli - cylindrical whitewashed houses with conical gray dry stone roofs. The exact origin of these unusual limestone dwellings is unclear, but Alberobello's oldest Trullos date back to the 14th century.
Alberobello is a city of over 1500 Trulli, whitewashed cylindrical houses with conical roofs |
Some historians believe that these low-key mortarless houses were popular in the late Middle Ages because they were easy to dismantle, meaning residents could avoid taxes. Today, this iconic drywall construction still functions as a residence, as well as a restaurant, B&B, and gift shop to accommodate the growing number of tourists.
To avoid the tour buses, arrive early in the morning or, better yet, plan your trip during the low season (October-April).
Velika Planina, Slovenia
In the highlands of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps in Slovenia lies Velika Planina , one of the last traditional herding settlements in Europe. Backed by snow-capped peaks and dotted with hobbit-like huts, this small mountain village resembles somewhere between JRR Tolkien's Middle Earth and CS Lewis' Narnia (part of The Chronicles of Narnia was actually filmed in Slovenia).
The Chronicles of Narnia was filmed in the mountains of Slovenia |
Cable cars and ski lifts take visitors to the settlement, but there are also well-marked (and scenic) trails to the top. Once there, you can taste the shepherds' hand-stirred Trnic cheese, enjoy trucklji (fluffy dumplings with cottage cheese), or hike one of the many hiking and biking routes that traverse the cow-filled meadows.
For a deeper insight into the life of Velika Planina's herdsmen, stay at one of the guest farmhouses.
Bamberg, Germany
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993, Bamberg boasts one of the largest and best-preserved old town centers in Europe. This photogenic Bavarian town is built along the river Regnitz, causing ancient canals and medieval stone bridges to intersect with its many narrow cobblestone streets and ornate Baroque buildings.
Bamberg has one of the largest and best preserved old town centers in Europe |
Bamberg's old town is best explored on foot or by bicycle, allowing plenty of time to soak up the beautiful architecture and sample Bamberg rauchbier, the city's famous smoked beer. If you're feeling hungry, pair your smoked drink with a plate of schäuferla, pork shoulder slowly grilled in rauchbier and served with potato and cabbage dumplings.
Reine, Norway
Postcard image of Norway's Lofoten Islands, Reine is a village of 314 people at the foot of the granite peak of Reinebringen.
Hikers prefer to visit in summer, but the city's iconic red and white rorbuer – a fisherman's hut that hangs over the city's serene, crystal-clear lagoon – looks more like a fairy tale when it emerges from the white snow.
Reine is a village of 314 people in the Lofoten Island archipelago |
Plus, the night spectacle of the Northern Lights, deserted white sand beaches and turquoise Lofoten fjords, and it's no wonder travelers consider this small fishing village to be one of the most beautiful not only in Europe, but also in the world.
Castle Combe, England
This small Wiltshire village is often listed as the most beautiful in England, and it's easy to see why.
Each of the honey-colored stone huts, which turn deep gold at sunset, have not changed much since their construction in the 16th century, where they housed the Cotswolds' most prominent weavers during the height of the English wool trade.
The Cotswolds village of Castle Combe has not changed since the 16th century. |
Today, Castle Combe is an idyllic base from which to explore the Cotswolds forest trails, enjoy roast beef in red wine sauce by the fire, and sample some of the coolest craft beers or the most beautiful afternoon tea in the country. To escape the crowds and to soak up more of the fairytale vibe, visit in winter.
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