I found Lumenor SMP and it is a 24 7 custom vanilla survival server on 1.21.11. It also has ViaVersion so newer clients can join too.
You can play on Java or Bedrock and it even allows cracked clients. The cool part is the role system where you pick Passive for peaceful vibes or PvP for chaos so both types of players can exist.
The world is made for exploring with custom biomes and huge structures like ancient temples. There are powerful rewards out there so you always have something to hunt for.
Trading is player driven and it is more like villager style deals not a simple economy shop. There are PvP and Passive arenas and keep inventory is on in the arena only so you can practice without losing everything.
It also has custom armor trims that give small buffs and a custom Nether that is very challenging. They use strong anti cheat and the server is hosted in Germany with staff from a bunch of countries so it feels welcoming.
