There’s nothing quite like escaping the hustle of daily life and heading to the countryside for a bit of R&R. Rolling hills, fresh air, and a slower pace all work wonders for resetting the mind and body. Whether you’re longing for cozy afternoons in front of a fire, gourmet meals featuring local ingredients, or serene spa treatments, the countryside offers something for everyone seeking peace and luxury. These eight countryside retreats are destinations that blend natural beauty with indulgent experiences. Get ready to explore picturesque estates, boutique farms, and hideaways tailored for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
1. Blackberry Farm - Tennessee, USA
Nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Farm delivers luxury wrapped in Southern charm. Known for its award-winning farm-to-table dining and immaculate aesthetics, this destination combines relaxation with world-class experiences. Suites and cottages are adorned with warm tones, plush bedding, and views of lush hillsides.
For food lovers, their on-site culinary team crafts seasonal menus, drawing fresh ingredients from their farm. Feeling adventurous? Guests can try fly fishing, horseback riding, or guided hikes through the mountain trails. For ultimate pampering, the Wellhouse Spa offers treatments like deep-tissue massages and facials infused with ingredients grown right on the property.
2. Cliveden House - Berkshire, UK
History and luxury come together at Cliveden House, an exquisite country estate set amidst 376 acres of National Trust gardens. This UK countryside retreat has long been a favorite of the elite. Its opulent rooms boast antique furnishings, grand windows, and all the modern comforts you’d want.
Cliveden is home to a relaxing spa with hot tubs, saunas, and an iconic outdoor pool. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea on the terrace overlooking Thames Valley or take a serene boat ride on the river. For a touch of culture, the estate’s rich history adds an enchanting backdrop to your stay.
3. Lake House - Daylesford, Australia
Located along the beautiful shores of Lake Daylesford, this Australian gem feels like stepping into a tranquil painting. The Lake House is known for its boutique style, featuring modern rooms with countryside charm, private balconies, and views of the surrounding water and gardens.
The real magic happens in the Lake House restaurant, where award-winning chefs create dishes showcasing regional produce. Come evening, you can stroll through idyllic sculptures scattered around the property or sip wine while watching the sunset. Of course, relaxation here isn’t complete without indulging in their spa, which offers hydrotherapy sessions and river stone massages.
4. Chewton Glen - Hampshire, UK
Chewton Glen is where English countryside elegance meets innovative luxury. This five-star retreat features magnificent suites and even treehouse accommodations for a unique experience. Yes, treehouses. These elevated, stilted rooms allow you to sleep amidst the treetops while enjoying floor-to-ceiling windows and private outdoor hot tubs.
Brimming with choices, Chewton Glen offers classic countryside activities like clay shooting and forest walks, but their spa stands out. With treatments ranging from aromatherapy to deep-soak baths, it’s a haven for those seeking total calm. Cuisine is equally notable, blending garden-to-plate freshness with gourmet flair.
5. The Ranch - Malibu, USA
For those after a more active detox surrounded by natural beauty, The Ranch in Malibu presents a different kind of countryside escape. Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, this exclusive retreat focuses on blending fitness with nature. Guests stay in rustic-luxe accommodations featuring simple yet elegant designs.
Each day begins with guided group hikes along serene trails, followed by plant-based meals prepared using organic ingredients. The Ranch also offers stretching sessions, yoga, and therapeutic massages to restore your body after a full day of activity. It’s not indulgent in the traditional sense but leaves guests rejuvenated in both mind and body.
6. Ballyfin - Laois, Ireland
If you’ve dreamed of staying in a castle, Ballyfin is the countryside getaway for you. Set in the heart of Ireland, this 19th-century manor delivers a fairy-tale experience with all the modern amenities. Each room is intricately designed with period details, including grand fireplaces, antique linens, and dramatic views of the estate’s 614 acres.
Guests can explore the sprawling grounds, complete with ornamental gardens and woodland trails, by bicycle or horseback. The dining is equally enchanting, offering locally sourced dishes served in a dining room fit for royalty. For ultimate relaxation, enjoy a warm soak in the Roman-style indoor pool or sip Irish whiskey by the fire.
7. Post Ranch Inn - Big Sur, USA
For a countryside escape with breathtaking ocean and mountain views, look no further than Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur. Perched atop rugged cliffs overlooking the Pacific, this adults-only retreat offers secluded luxury amidst California’s stunning natural beauty.
Accommodations include eco-friendly lodges with private decks and floor-to-ceiling windows designed to harmonize with the scenery. Relaxation options abound, from infinity pools with panoramic views to outdoor yoga sessions surrounded by redwoods. Guided nature walks and stargazing programs provide opportunities to reconnect with the world around you. To top it off, their Sierra Mar restaurant pairs organic cuisine with unforgettable views.
8. Le Domaine de la Baume - Provence, France
Tucked away in the French countryside, Le Domaine de la Baume feels like a postcard brought to life. Set in a restored 18th-century home, this retreat boasts rustic charm and luxury with a Provençal atmosphere. Think sun-drenched courtyards, vibrant gardens, and private terraces overlooking rolling hills.
Inside, the rooms are tastefully decorated with vintage touches and soft linens. Guests can savor authentic French cuisine prepared with ingredients from the estate’s gardens. Swimming in the outdoor pool, wandering the olive groves, or taking on-site painting classes are all ways to soak up the relaxing ambiance. Provence has never felt so idyllic.
Whether it’s a treehouse in Hampshire, a castle in Ireland, or a lakeside retreat in Australia, these luxurious countryside getaways cater to every style of traveler. Each destination invites you to pause, enjoy, and surround yourself with nature’s tranquility. If life’s hectic pace has you yearning for a break, these picture-perfect escapes are the perfect antidotes to stress. All that’s left is to decide which one speaks most to your sense of rest and relaxation.