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A World Heritage Site is an area or landmark deemed to possess significant cultural, historical, or scientific value. It is granted legal protection by an international convention managed by UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation. These sites are recognised for their remarkable contributions to humanity and are evaluated based on their ability to preserve the world's natural and cultural heritage. Two of our featured destinations, Zagoria in Greece and Guimaraes in Northern Portugal have both been awarded this prestigious accolade.
Tucked away in the heart of the Pindus mountain range, Zagori is a collection of small, idyllic villages nestled within a national forest. Due to their isolation, these villages enjoyed relative stability and even a semi-autonomous status, allowing them to flourish as a commercial and educational hub. Being on the trade routes linking the Balkans with Europe and the East further contributed to their development. Despite the area's growth, these villages remained unspoiled and are still preserved to this day, surrounded by lush forests and stunning cliffs.
Describing this place is no easy feat, much like reaching it once was. The quaint villages have retained their 18th-century charm, with each one centred around a small square featuring a church, a natural spring, and a grand plane tree – the heart of all social events. These tiny hamlets were constructed from the plentiful materials found in the area, such as stone and timber. The stones were skillfully chiselled by hand and meticulously placed, often without the use of mortar, using an ancient technique that still endures today. As you explore the region, you'll come across the time-honoured stone arches that span the numerous rivers and streams that connect the villages. The landscape itself is awe-inspiring, with rugged mountains dominating the scenery. Massive rocky outcrops gradually give way to lush green slopes that lead to dense forests. Meandering roads intersect with steep, old footpaths that run alongside cliffs, ravines, and gorges, offering spectacular views around every bend.
This unusual and little-known area is one of Greece's best kept secrets and can, with a car, be easily combined with a holiday in Parga, Sivota or Lefkas or as part of a Hidden Greece fly-drive.
Guimaraes is a beautiful city and municipality located in northern Portugal within the district of Braga. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, the city's historic town centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a stunning example of how a medieval settlement has evolved into a modern town. Guimaraes is also a significant part of the Ave Subregion and historic Minho Province. It is famous for its historical importance in the foundation of Portugal, and is often referred to as the “birthplace of the Portuguese nationality” or “the cradle city”. Legend has it that the first Portuguese King, Afonso Henriques, was born here. The medieval centre is a maze of winding streets and charming plazas, surrounded by 14th-century buildings. The adjacent hill is home to a 1000-year-old castle and a massive palace built in the 15th century by the first duke of Bragança. In 2012, Guimaraes was named the European Capital of Culture, which added a fresh, creative energy to the city.
22nd September 2023
Sunvil's holidays are designed by passionate travellers just like you. Our reservations experts and product teams, many of whom have been with us for many years, are passionate about our destinations and, through their personal, first-hand knowledge can answer any questions that you may have. They are well qualified to advise and recommend, based on your own holiday criteria. We can point you to those special, little-known places, some not found even in guidebooks.
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