Looking for a slower vacation? Check out this Tennessee town with 'storybook charm'

Step away from big-city stresses and pay a visit to this town with "storybook charm."

Sewanee, Tennessee, was recently named a place to visit for townsizing travelers, or those choosing to explore serene small towns over traditional tourist favorites like Nashville or Gatlinburg. Sixt compiled a list of the top 25 off-the-beaten-path towns across the United States. Sewanee ranked at number 3 on the rental car company's list. It was the only Tennessee town to make the rankings.

"With a population of just 3,000, a low noise level of 40 decibels, and over 64 different local businesses, this quiet, walkable town is perfect for those looking to unwind and explore at a slower pace," Sixt wrote about the town in its rankings.

Sewanee is home to the liberal arts college, The University Of The South. The private school has more than 1,700 undergraduate students and offers 37 majors, according to the college.

While in town, enjoy The University Of The South's 13,000-acre campus, take a hike with the picturesque mountain views, and visit the area's local restaurants and shops.

What is townsizing?

Townsizing is a new travel trend, according to Sixt.

In this trend, travelers are seeking out slower, more intentional travel in small towns rather than going to large, bustling cities, which have a traditional tourist appeal.

Townsizing has become an increasingly popular way to vacation, according to the New York Times.

Where is Sewanee, Tennessee?

Sewanee is a small town located in Franklin County, Tennessee. The city is about 52 miles away from Chattanooga and 93 miles from Nashville.

The city is set near the renowned Bonnaroo farm in Manchester. Both are accessible off Interstate 24 in Middle Tennessee.

What airport do you fly into to get to Sewanee?

The two commercial airports nearest to Sewanee are Nashville International Airport or the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport.

Regardless of which airport you fly to, you'll need to get a car and drive to Sewanee after your flight.

Top 10 places to visit with small-town charm

Seeking a small town vacation? These are the top U.S. towns where you should pay a visit, according to Sixt.

1. Decorah, Iowa

2. Cape May, New Jersey

3. Sewanee

4. Houghton, Michigan

5. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

6. Yellow Springs, Ohio

7. Ketchum, Idaho

8. Mystic, Connecticut

9. Marfa, Texas

10. Nashville, Indiana

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee town named top small-town travel destination by Sixt