This famous old country house might not come cheap, but where else can you splash out in such decadent style for life’s big celebrations?

A treat of a country retreat in the North York Moors National Park with lovely high ceilings, a log-burner, much comfort and fabulous views

Your own cottage on a wine estate in a very beautiful part of the South Downs, famed for world-class sparkling wines

A house on a hill (El Nido means The Nest) built in the Moorish style surrounded by sea views and the green hills of the Granada coastline

Delightful, rustic retreat for families, romantic couples and singles. Food, views and owners are lovely

Tranquil manor house deep in Bordeaux wine region with six acres of grounds, a tennis court and swimming pool

A cosy cottage on a farm down a long winding track, wonderfully rural with footpaths across fields or along the canal

An unbelievably stunning setting for this renovated 15th-century villa with garden on a hillside overlooking the famed Florence skyline

Eat in the sheltered, quirky, outdoor dining area, enjoy Madame's colourful garden in its village setting - ideal for those on a budget

A gorgeously tranquil place to escape to and fall in love with the Périgord's medieval villages, valleys, wines, markets and artisan farms

This classy, refurbished village pub is the community hub, chock-full of locals and a popular destination for foodies. Lovely bedrooms too

Pippa tells you where to find wild flowers, babbling brooks and butterflies... and hike, bike and swim. Magic for families

Warm hospitable agriturismo for foodies, designers, wine enthusiasts and all who love the 'real' Sicily. A happy place for families, too

A hop from the coast and charming Alnwick, a gorgeous and supremely comfortable country escape for friends and families. Dogs welcome too

Historic 19th-century maison de maître, perfect for a gathering of friends, within walking distance of the old town’s charms

A wonderful drive over the mountains to the wild side of Skye with its moody lochs, heather-covered hills and this restaurant with rooms

Once a shooting lodge, this stand-alone big building was part of a medieval estate and you can still see the grassy mount and dungeon tower