5 fairytale villages in the Alps you must visit
What's the story
The majestic Alps, which span across some European countries, are home to some of the most picturesque villages.
These charming abodes offer stunning views, rich cultural experiences, and a chance to get close to nature.
Whether you're an enthusiastic hiker or simply want to get away from the hustle-bustle of cities, these alpine villages are the perfect getaway.
Here are five magical villages in the Alps promising unforgettable experiences.
Zermatt
Zermatt: A car-free paradise
Popular for its spectacular views of the Matterhorn, Zermatt is also a car-free village, which makes it a sustainable place to visit.
The small town can be explored on foot or by an electric taxi.
Zermatt has plenty of hiking trails and skiing opportunities in the winter months.
With its traditional Swiss architecture and modern amenities, Zermatt is perfect for adventure enthusiasts and peace seekers alike.
Hallstatt
Hallstatt: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Nestled between mountains and a serene lake, Hallstatt is often described as one of the most beautiful villages in Austria.
The village is steeped in history, dating back thousands of years, when salt mining played a major role in its development.
Today, you can explore ancient salt mines or take leisurely boat rides on Lake Hallstatt.
The village's stunning setting has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Site tag.
Chamonix
Chamonix: Gateway to Mont Blanc
Chamonix has been serving as the gateway to Mont Blanc, Western Europe's highest peak.
This French alpine village draws outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year with options including skiing and snowboarding in the winter months to hiking and paragliding in summer season.
The vibrant town center with dining options and shops selling local crafts makes it an excellent base to explore surrounding natural wonders.
Grindelwald
Grindelwald: Adventure awaits at every turn
Grindelwald lies in Switzerland's Bernese Oberland region, providing stunning views of legendary peaks such as the Eiger North Face.
Among other nearby attractions, is Jungfraujoch, popularly termed "Top of Europe".
You can do a lot outdoors here, from hiking trails for all levels of expertise to exciting activities such as zip-lining down mountainsides.
Plus, quaint cafes offer delectable Swiss delights, perfect for relaxing after a day outdoors.
Cortina d'Ampezzo
Cortina d'Ampezzo: Italy's winter sports hub
Cortina d'Ampezzo, situated in the Dolomites region in Italy, is known as a top-notch winter destination, having hosted the Winter Olympics in previous decades.
Apart from skiing and snowboarding, visitors can try ice skating, curling, or even bobsledding, while summer opens avenues for rock climbing, mountain biking, and beautiful hikes through stunning sights of the region.
This guarantees something for everyone, irrespective of when they visit.