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?

With incredible views across to distant hilltop towns, olive groves and buzzing bees, this elegant farmhouse has bags of charm

Come for a village feel, rural peace and boundless Portuguese countryside at this charming whitewashed home with a super terrace with views

An L-shaped former farmhouse is now a gorgeous place to stay, just half an hour from the sea or the mountains and near interesting villages

An attractive converted stable with covered veranda, private garden and views over rolling countryside, minutes from the coast

A hilltop setting for this ancient fortress with an illustrious past. You stay in apartments or farmhouses inside or outside the walls

You’re in Snowdonia National Park: cycle, hike, swim, climb & trampoline to your heart’s content. Come home to comfort, warmth, grand views

On top of sand dunes, this bright and airy cottage has glorious views, walks are lovely and you can bring your dog

A lovely eco barn - your home from home; come for walks on the North Yorks Moors, world class cycling and cosy evenings by the wood-burner

Immerse yourself in nature, wildlife, sustainability and slow food high up on the edge of a National Park

A small, quirky country house hotel with lovely staff, pretty rooms and heavenly food served in a pillared dining room

A really friendly French family home, steeped in history and tradition with delicious home-grown food, a lovely garden and peaceful pool

Two peaceful spaces in a beautiful garden with a morning concert from the birds and a terrace for magical outdoor meals

Designed with style and comfort, peaceful, sophisticated and serene with countryside views. And you have your own lovely pool

Cosy Lakeland stone barn in acres of peaceful countryside for walkers, wildlife lovers and those wishing for a retreat

Come for hearty Lakeland adventures, pretty towns and villages, and a rather special stay in this warm and welcoming country inn

Come for Tudor beams, a sunny roof terrace and the bustle of Lewes in this beautifully restored coaching inn

A confident style for this mid-19th-century house, with a Mediterranean garden, elegant terrace and pool, a stroll from the historic centre