Charming Towns You Never Knew Existed
With everything going on in 2020, I think it’s safe to say most of us just want an escape. And what better place to escape to than a charming town?
Colmar, France
Photo: Conde Nast Traveler
With cobblestone streets and colorful medieval buildings, walking through Colmar is like walking through a fairytale come to life, which makes sense as it was supposedly the inspiration for the village in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Located near the German border, Colmar uniquely combines the two cultures, which is especially noticeable in the architecture and food.
Kennebunkport, Maine
Photo: Our Wandering Mind
A popular summer destination, Kennebunkport offers the quintessential Maine experience. This charming town offers plenty of beaches, lobster shacks, antique shopping, and Bed and Breakfasts. Kennebunkport has also had some famous visitors like Margaret Thatcher and Vladimir Putin who were guests at Walker Point, the summer estate of the Bush Family.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
Photo: Conde Nast Traveler
Located in the Arctic Circle, Norway’s Lofoten Islands isn’t exactly the easiest place to get to, but those who make the journey rave about the beautiful water, colorful fishing villages, and majestic fjords. Not only do the Lofoten Islands serve as inspiration for many Norwegian paintings, but it is also a great place to see the Northern Lights.
Leavenworth, Washington
Photo: Conde Nast Traveler
Developed as a civic initiative in the 1960s to boost the economy and tourism, Leavenworth is a Bavarian escape nestled in Washington’s Cascade Mountains. This charming mountain town offers German style food and architecture, skiing, and a famous Oktoberfest celebration.
Rye, England
Photo: Conde Nast Traveler
Once called the “beautifully jewelled brooch worn at South England’s throat” by poet Patric Dickinson, Rye is the seaside town that stole the hearts of some of England’s most famous poets and writers. With winding cobblestone streets, quirky shops, and medieval cafes and inns, it’s no wonder why.
Fredericksburg, Texas
Photo: Conde Nast Traveler
Located an hour-and-a-half drive from Austin, Fredericksburg is a town full of charm. Famous for its German heritage, which you can experience at local biergartens, Fredericksburg offers adorable shopping, restaurants, spas, and wineries.