1. Oymyakon, Russia
Located in the Sakha Republic of Russia, Oymyakon is a village that has been isolated since its establishment in the early 20th century. It is often referred to as the coldest inhabited place on Earth due to its subarctic climate with extremely low temperatures during winter. The village averages a temperature of -50°C (-58°F) in January, which is the lowest recorded temperature in the world. Oymyakon has been isolated for so long that it is one of the most extreme examples of urban isolation, with its own unique culture and traditions.
2. Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
This picturesque mountain village on the Garden Route of South Africa was established in 1919 by a European colonel who wanted to create a resort town. Today, it is known for its stunning natural beauty, with towering mountains surrounding a beautiful bay, and pristine beaches and hiking trails nearby. According to estimates, only about 10% of the village's residents commute to the nearby city of George due to its remote location. Plettenberg Bay has maintained its charm and exclusivity despite being relatively close to Cape Town.
3. Taquile Island, Peru
Situated in Lake Titicaca, between Peru and Bolivia, this isolated mountain village is home to about 200 indigenous people who live according to their traditional customs and way of life. Taquile was founded over 600 years ago by the Incas as a sacred site for the island's inhabitants, who are known for their distinctive red textiles. Unfortunately, access to modern amenities such as healthcare or electricity has been limited due to its location far from major cities in both countries. This has helped preserve the unique cultural identity of Taquile Island.
4. The monastery village of Pindaros, Greece
Located on Mount Athos, this small and isolated mountain village is home to the renowned 13th-century Pindaros Monastery. For centuries, it was nearly impossible for outsiders to reach Mount Athos due to its unique status as a neutral zone between Greek and Byzantine territories during the Middle Ages. Today, tourists must apply in advance to visit this tiny but spiritually significant community of monks who live according to their strict monastic rules.
5. The village of Aletsch, Switzerland
Located at an altitude of 1,300 meters (4,300 feet), this isolated mountain village was one of the last settlements created during the Swiss colonization period in the Alps. Today, only about 100 residents call home to this tiny hamlet, which is famous for its connection to a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in Europe by area. Limited access due to steep terrain keeps visitors away, ensuring that the tranquility of the village remains untouched.