Abandoned Villages You Can Actually Stay in Overnight
In a world buzzing with notifications, deadlines, and the endless glow of screens, the idea of stepping away—really away—has never felt more appealing. Now imagine this: pitching a tent beside a crumbling stone church, the ruins of a forgotten village silhouetted against the dusk, with nothing around you but the sound of wind through the trees and the slow emergence of stars overhead. It’s not just a getaway; it’s a time portal. This guide isn’t about polished resorts or curated glamping—it’s about 14 truly abandoned places, villages long left behind by civilization, where nature has taken over and the night sky still reigns supreme. These places, scattered across the globe, offer a rare combination of solitude, history, and the kind of cosmic show you can’t get anywhere near city lights. Whether you're an intrepid backpacker or a weekend adventurer looking to unplug, these hauntingly beautiful ghost towns double as celestial observatories—and unforgettable campsites.
1. Kayaköy, Turkey
Tucked into the pine-covered hills above Turkey’s southwestern coast, Kayaköy feels like it was forgotten on purpose. This once-thriving Greek village was abandoned in the 1920s after a population exchange between Greece and Turkey, leaving behind a ghost town of stone houses, narrow lanes, and empty chapels perched on the slopes. Today, nature is reclaiming the village—ivy creeps up walls, wildflowers bloom between cracks, and goats roam freely among the ruins. While you can’t pitch a tent inside the actual village (it’s protected as a historical site), there are several scenic spots just outside the perimeter where camping is permitted. These locations still offer stunning views of Kayaköy’s eerie silhouette—and a sky so clear you can practically touch the stars. Helpful Tip: Base yourself at one of the nearby eco-camps or bring your own gear and hike in from Fethiye. The Lycian Way passes close by, making this a perfect detour for long-distance trekkers craving solitude and starlight.
