From honey-coloured homes in the Cotswolds to Norway's lesser-known corners, there are many picture-perfect villages around the world. But which ones are the most popular?
The team at Faraway Furniture have taken a look at the most popular villages on Instagram to help you decide on your next holiday destination — and they are sure to spark some serious wanderlust.
Coming in at the top of the list is Cinque Terre, a string of villages situated on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. Famed for its multicoloured buildings, fishing heritage and famous hiking trails, it's no wonder that this slice of Italian paradise is one of the most popular.
England's pretty villages also scored highly on the list, with Bibury in the heart of the Cotswolds coming in the top 20. The charming village is perhaps one of the most recognisable in Gloucestershire, with many visitors flocking to explore the pretty churches, traditional pubs and River Coln every year.
Elsewhere in the UK, the seaside village of Staithes in North Yorkshire also made the list. This popular picturesque coastal area has tightly-packed cottages, glorious ocean views and spectacular local amenities.
Further afield, New Zealand's fictional village of Hobbiton (which was created as a film set for The Lord of the Rings) is also one of the most Instagrammed spots in the world.
Top 20 Instagrammable villages in the world
1. Cinque Terre, Italy
2. Reine, Norway
3. Oia, Greece
4. Burano, Italy
5. Colmar, France
6. Hallstatt, Austria
7. Alberobello, Italy
8. Hobbiton, New Zealand
9. Shirakawa-go, Japan
10. Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia
11. Wegen, Switzerland
12. Ait Benhaddou, Morocco
13. Popeye Village, Malta
14. Bibury, England
15. Ortahisar, Turkey
16. Fenghuang Ancient Town, China
17. Staithes, England
18. Júzcar, Spain
19. Palangan, Iran
20. Simiane-la-Rotonde, France
Like this article? Sign up to our newsletter to get more articles like this delivered straight to your inbox.
13 beautiful cottages to rent in the UK
#CottageWeek 2020: Mint Cottage, Suffolk
This is Mint Cottage in Lavenham, Suffolk, whose Tudor style stands out proudly next to its pink neighbour. The traditional Tudor feel carries throughout the property, with high ceilings and exposed beams. We love the beautifully grand four poster bed. Mint Cottage is available through Cool Stays.
#CottageWeek 2020: Wishbone Cottage, Malvern Hills
We are at Wishbone Cottage in the Malvern Hills. With stunning views, this home is quite the Tardis. The alfresco lighting, fire pit and seating area make the outdoor space just as cosy as the plush inside. The soft textures perfectly juxtapose the exposed beams and stone walls. This is a dream bolthole, surely? Wishbone Cottage is available through Unique Homestays.
#CottageWeek 2020: Glan-yr-afon, Wales
Today we are in the foothills of the Cambrian mountains in Wales. Overlooking the Brecon Beacons, Glan-yr-afon cottage is full of traditional charm but, outside, caters for modern relaxation in the form of a wood-fired hot tub. Set within 70 acres of private woodland, the cosy cottage boasts a claw-foot bath and wood burners, creating the perfect ambiance for a good cwtch. Take a stroll up the hill for 360 degree woodland views or pack a picnic and join one of the local walking tracks to discover deep valleys and a waterfall hidden within the Cwm Rhaeadr Forest. Glan-yr-afon is available through Cambrian Escapes.
#CottageWeek 2020: One Hope Cottage, Cotswolds
That honey-coloured stone could only mean one thing: the Cotswolds. Situated close to the beautiful market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, dog-friendly One Hope Cottage oozes flair. A modern makeover accentuates the period features, and its enclosed garden and patio area make the perfect reading spot. Another highlight? It's just a short walk from the pub. One Hope Cottage is available through holidaycottages.co.uk.
#CottageWeek 2020: Coburg Terrace, Devon
We're bringing you something a little less traditional today with this castellated cottage in Sidmouth, Devon. Coburg Terrace's interiors are just as white, fresh and clean as its exterior, with pops of colour added through books and characterful accessories. The property overlooks tennis courts, a bowling green and Salcombe Hill and is a short walk away from Sidmouth's boutique shops. Coburg Terrace is available through Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays.
#CottageWeek 2020: Millstone Cottage, Cornwall
We're in Cornwall, in awe of the delightful, Grade II listed, Millstone Cottage. Set deep in a wooded valley near the village of Cadgwith, a front stable-door welcomes you into this restful abode. The open plan kitchen and wood-burning stove are highlight features, while the french door at the back open out onto the private garden – the perfect place for breakfast. Millstone Cottage is available through Classic Cottages.
#CottageWeek 2020: Fountain View, Oxfordshire
Situated in the heart of Upper Heyford village, Oxfordshire, Fountain View is a captivating Grade II listed, thatched cottage. The end-terrace home still boasts its original features, such as exposed beams and elm wood flooring, filling it with cosy, comforting charm. Our favourite features include the large, open fire place and modern-rustic kitchen. Visit late-spring to enjoy the wisteria at its best. Fountain View is available through Sykes Cottages.
Lisa Joyner is the Senior Digital Writer at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
