I found a small Java semi vanilla server that just released after about 4 months of work. It is built around realism so you have to earn your progress and it is not just free stuff.
It has a completely custom map plus custom ore generation. It also has custom combat and a climate system and more.
Auto farms are disabled so you cannot just automate everything. There is also a 125 dollar contest running for redesigning the servers logo and banner and you enter by submitting your own image.
Semi Vanilla Java With Realism Systems
GG.MINEWIND.NET New Server IP5tarRock Semi Vanilla Realism Survival
This is a small Minecraft server called 5tarRock and it is semi vanilla and about realism. The players here are building on a custom map that the owners worked on for months.
The server has custom ore generation and custom combat. There is also a climate system that changes how the world feels. It is not super easy and you actually have to work for your stuff.
Auto farms are turned off so you cannot just AFK and win. The whole idea is that you earn everything and play for real instead of using easy tricks.
There is a contest going on where people can redesign the logo and banner. The prize is 125 dollars if your picture wins. The community is small and looking for more players who like a bit of challenge and more realistic survival.GG.MINEWIND.NET New Server IP