Escape To The Country: Top Locations For A Countryside Getaway

Viktoria Ivanova

5 min read

Post on May 24, 2025

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The Charming Cotswolds, England: A Quintessential Countryside Getaway

The Cotswolds offer quintessential English countryside charm. Picture-postcard villages, rolling hills, and charming stone cottages create an idyllic escape to the country. This region is perfect for those seeking a relaxing countryside break filled with history and natural beauty. This Cotswolds getaway promises a truly memorable country vacation.

• Explore charming villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Castle Combe. These villages boast honey-coloured stone buildings, quaint shops, and traditional pubs, offering a glimpse into quintessential English village life. Many offer charming bed and breakfasts for an authentic country experience.

• Hike or bike through the stunning countryside. Numerous trails wind through rolling hills, past picturesque farms, and alongside babbling brooks. Enjoy breathtaking views and fresh country air during your countryside escape.

• Enjoy traditional pubs and fine dining experiences. Indulge in hearty pub lunches, sample local ales, and savor exquisite meals at upscale restaurants showcasing the best of Cotswolds cuisine. This adds to the overall charm of your country escape.

• Visit historic houses and gardens. Explore magnificent stately homes like Sudeley Castle and Hidcote Manor Garden, immersing yourself in history and appreciating the beauty of meticulously maintained landscapes. This adds a cultural element to your country vacation.

Tuscany, Italy: A Culinary and Cultural Countryside Escape

Tuscany provides a rich tapestry of rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and medieval towns. This region offers a delightful blend of culinary delights and cultural immersion, making it a top choice for a country escape with a difference. This Italian countryside offers a unique country vacation experience.

• Indulge in wine tasting at renowned vineyards. Sample world-class Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino, learning about the winemaking process and enjoying the breathtaking views from the vineyards. Many offer tours and tastings as part of a Tuscan country escape.

• Take a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes. Immerse yourself in Italian culinary culture by learning to prepare pasta from scratch, making fresh bread, and mastering classic Tuscan recipes. This is a unique and enriching part of a Tuscan countryside getaway.

• Explore charming hilltop towns like San Gimignano and Siena. These medieval towns offer stunning architecture, historical sites, and panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside. Each offers a distinct charm contributing to a memorable country vacation.

• Visit art-filled Florence, a short trip from the countryside. While technically a city, Florence is easily accessible from the Tuscan countryside and offers a wealth of art, history, and culture to complement your rural retreat. This makes Tuscany a great choice for a country escape with added cultural experiences.

The Scottish Highlands: A Dramatic and Breathtaking Escape to the Country

For a dramatic and awe-inspiring escape to the country, the Scottish Highlands are unparalleled. Rugged mountains, deep lochs, and vast expanses of moorland provide an unforgettable experience. This rugged beauty makes the Highlands a truly unique destination for a country vacation.

• Hike through breathtaking mountain landscapes. Explore challenging trails with stunning views, or opt for gentler walks in scenic glens. This rugged beauty is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful countryside escape.

• Explore the mysterious Loch Ness. Take a boat trip on Loch Ness, searching for the elusive monster, and enjoying the stunning scenery of the surrounding Highlands. This adds a unique element to your country vacation.

• Visit charming Highland towns and villages. Explore historic towns like Inverness and Fort William, discovering local crafts, traditional pubs, and warm Highland hospitality. This adds a cultural element to your relaxing countryside break.

• Enjoy wildlife spotting, including red deer and golden eagles. The Highlands are home to a rich variety of wildlife, offering opportunities for spotting red deer, golden eagles, and other fascinating creatures during your peaceful countryside escape. This enhances the adventurous aspects of your country vacation.

Provence, France: Lavender Fields and Sun-Drenched Villages

Provence offers a stunning landscape of lavender fields, sun-drenched villages, and rolling vineyards. Cycling through this region is a truly unforgettable experience, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing countryside break.

• Visit the iconic lavender fields during peak season. Witness the breathtaking purple expanse of lavender fields in full bloom, capturing unforgettable photographs, and experiencing the intoxicating aroma of lavender. This is a hallmark of a Provence country escape.

• Explore charming villages like Gordes and Roussillon. These picturesque villages boast stunning architecture, cobblestone streets, and breathtaking views. Each village offers a unique experience adding to a fulfilling country vacation.

• Enjoy wine tasting in the Côtes du Rhône wine region. Sample the region's renowned wines, learning about the winemaking process and the terroir of the Côtes du Rhône. This complements the beauty of the landscape making your country escape truly memorable.

• Discover Roman ruins and historical sites. Explore ancient Roman ruins and other historical sites, adding a cultural dimension to your country getaway. This makes Provence a destination rich in history and beauty, perfect for a relaxing countryside break.

Conclusion

Planning your escape to the country doesn't have to be daunting. Whether you prefer the charming villages of the Cotswolds, the culinary delights of Tuscany, the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, or the lavender fields of Provence, there's a perfect rural retreat waiting for you. Start planning your idyllic countryside getaway today! Find your perfect escape to the country and begin creating unforgettable memories. Your perfect country vacation awaits!