Where Stillness Lives: Small-Town Retreats You’ll Want to Keep Secret

3. Giethoorn, Netherlands: The Venice of the North

Known as the "Venice of the North," Giethoorn is a charming village in the Netherlands where roads are replaced by canals. This unique setting allows for peaceful exploration by boat, offering a serene alternative to the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can glide through the waterways, passing under quaint wooden bridges and alongside thatched-roof cottages. The absence of cars adds to the tranquility, with only the soft sounds of paddles dipping into the water and birds singing in the trees. Giethoorn's idyllic landscape and gentle pace make it a perfect retreat for those seeking a quiet escape.