People have been utterly captivated by the enchanting beauty of certain European towns, so picture-perfect they could have leapt straight from the pages of a storybook.
As we have stepped in a new year, perhaps it’s time to consider a break from the everyday grind in favour of experiencing the wonder of a holiday abroad. Rather than heading to the usual hotspots – think sun-soaked beaches or bustling capital cities renowned for sightseeing and culinary delights – these lesser-known yet “so magical” towns could offer a refreshing alternative.
Austria, France, and Germany are home to four such destinations that promise to enchant visitors with their cobblestone alleys, vibrantly-hued buildings, and an atmosphere bursting with fairy-tale charm.
Instagram has recently lit up with a video shared by Beautiful Destinations, an account with 25.6 million followers, featuring these mesmerising towns. Their description solidifies the allure: “These European towns look like they’ve been lifted straight from a storybook”.
1. Colmar
One town to single out is Colmar, which resembles Belle’s quaint provincial village from Beauty and the Beast, located in north-eastern France. It’s a short hop away – at just an hour and fifty from northern England or about an hour and twenty-five minutes from London.
Ideal for romantic getaways, Colmar attracts couples with its charisma – plunging them into a realm peppered with multicoloured homes, ancient cobbled paths, and buildings echoing medieval and Renaissance eras.
For history aficionados, there’s no shortage of museums and captivating landmarks to explore. The town lies nestled on the famed Alsace Wine Route, offering an abundance of joyful experiences for wine aficionados. Complemented by a charming canal framed by vibrant flowers, the area is ideal for picturesque strolls.
For those inclined to relaxation, an idyllic boat trip through Little Venice provides a unique perspective from which to admire Colmar’s beauty.
2. Hallstatt
Consider a trip to Hallstatt, Austria, if you’re seeking scenes worthy of a postcard. Surrounded by majestic Alpine hills and steeped in history dating back millennia, this destination is a delight for the eyes.
Beautiful Destinations has hailed this Gmunden district gem as a “dreamy lakeside village with alpine views and boat rides on crystal-clear waters”. Despite its small local population of around 800, Forbes notes that Hallstatt attracts nearly three million visitors annually.
Famous for its salt production, guests are encouraged to explore the Salt Mine and take advantage of scenic boat trips on Hallstättersee Lake. Known as the inspiration behind Disney’s ‘Frozen’ films, Hallstatt is easily accessible from the UK with a direct flight to Salzburg Airport followed by just over an hour’s transfer.
Summer temperatures reach highs of 25C, while winter brings a snowy landscape with temperatures dipping just below freezing.
3. Grimentz
For an enchanting retreat into nature, look no further than Grimentz, situated in Switzerland’s mountainous Valais region. This picture-postcard village boasts irrefutable allure, with its pristine heritage and breathtaking alpine scenery captivating the hearts of all who visit.
Often hailed as one of Switzerland’s most picturesque alpine hamlets, Grimentz charms with its quaint ambiance, which seems lifted straight from another era. Visitors strolling through its narrow lanes will notice the traditional wooden chalets beautifully adorned with bright red geraniums.
This village is nestled in the Val d’Anniviers ski area, boasting over 220 km of slopes suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, and its elevation at 1,500 meters guarantees superb snow conditions throughout the winter season. .
Beyond the pistes, Grimentz shines as an excellent location for hiking enthusiasts. A variety of trails traverse the local alpine meadows, woodlands, and untouched mountain terrains.
Noteworthy expeditions include treks to the Moiry Glacier or Lac de Moiry, both offering spectacular opportunities for photography, thanks to their striking turquoise waters set against a glacial backdrop.
4. Idstein
Equally enchanting is Idstein in Germany, celebrated by Beautiful Destinations as “a medieval gem with colourful half-timbered streets, fairytale castles and centuries of history to uncover”. For those travelling from the UK, it’s approximately a 1 hour and 33-minute journey.
The nearest gateway is Frankfurt International Airport, which lies just a 26-minute drive away from this historic town.
Idstein captivates with its opulent architecture, which includes vibrantly coloured carvings and intricate designs. Amongst the town’s historical treasures is the Hexenturm or ‘Witches’ Tower’, a relic from the 12th century and part of the formidable Idstein Castle.
This location offers the perfect blend of historical exploration and leisurely strolls with stunning views. Add to that an array of delightful bakeries and charming cafes serving ice cream, and it’s hard to find anything not to love!