The world’s “most beautiful” village, where house prices can reach €1 million, is located just two hours away from the United Kingdom.
Nestled in the picturesque Osona region near Barcelona, in Spain, Rupit i Pruit was given the prestigious title by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). It is surrounded by a spectacular landscape with mountains and lush forests.
The village boasts cobbed streets and a stunning suspension bridge. According to the Catalonia Statistics Institute, it is currently home to around 300 people.
Rupit i Pruit sits around 800 metres above sea level and its small traditional streets mean modern cars cannot weave their way around the village. It is home to a number of wonderful stone houses, some over four centuries old.
Made up of two villages, Rupit and Pruit, both remained entirely independent until 1977, the medieval village of Rupit is believed to have emerged in the 12th century due to high-profile families living in the area.
It connects to the old town through a suspension bridge and is located close to Salent, the home of the largest waterfall in Catalonia. The 16th and 18th century homes in Rupit i Pruit’s historic quarter and some of the town’s most iconic buildings, with their preserved stone frontages, boast impressive gateways and wooden balconies.
The baroque-style church of Sant Miquel (Saint Michael) is an imposing structure in the village. Visitors are able to climb up to the church’s bell tower where they can enjoy an amazing panoramic view of the village.
The village has a number of rustic shops in its main square that are also full of flowered balconies and historic buildings. While the 17th century Hermitage of Santa Magdalena offers a pleasant spot to enjoy views of the river, reports Cope ES.
Anyone thinking of packing their bags and quitting the UK for Rupit i Pruit could however struggle. Local property website Idealista has just four homes up for sale in the tiny village.
One house, a bourgeois property built in the mid-20th century has nine bedrooms and will cost around €1 million (£829,000). The house has three floors, a huge garden with ponds and several terraced flower beds, a tennis court, swimming pool, chapel and a wood.
Another home, a farmhouse dating back to 1700, is on the market for €600,000 (£497k). It needs a complete renovation but does boast six bedrooms and a large bathroom.
A third property is slightly cheaper at €389,000 (£320K) and boasts three bedrooms. It is located just a stone’s throw away from the town centre.
The most affordable property in the village is a two-bedroom home priced at €220,000 (£182K). It has spectacular views of the river and an enchanting garden.
