10 of the Most Romantic Country Properties

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and love is in the air – even in the property section. Make like the doyenne of romantic comedies, When Harry Met Sally writer Nora Ephron, and fall in love with your home this year. Here’s our pick of 10 romantic country properties to get you in the mood for love…

10 of the Most Romantic Country Properties Around

1. Villa Ortensia, Sardinia

In Porto Cervo, the heart of Sardinia’s beautiful Costa Smeralda, this stunning villa is romantic above all, with gorgeous gardens and breathtaking views onto the sparkling sea. Recently refurbished, it makes the best of the advantageous position with plenty of seating areas both inside and outdoors to soak up the scenery. In the lush gardens, olive trees and bursts of tumbling bougainvillea greet you on every step. Available through Christie’s International Real Estate, price on request. 

2. Maytree Cottage, South Oxfordshire

With its thatched roof, charming period interior and abundance of climbing roses, Maytree Cottage epitomises romantic country living. The Grade II listed home benefits from two cosy reception rooms, both with exposed beam ceilings and open inglenook fireplaces and a bright kitchen which opens onto a terrace facing the romantic, rose-filled gardens. Available through Morgan & Associates, Little Milton via OnTheMarket for £1,175,000

3. Fiesole, Tuscany

Realise the dream of a life under the Tuscan sun at this stunning home in Fiesole, an exclusive residential area just outside Florence. With southernly views over a typically Tuscan landscape – think misty rolling hills and cypress trees – the gorgeous villa, converted in the 18th century and retaining its traditional features and character, offers the very best of refined Italian country living. We can’t imagine a more romantic way to live out la dolce vita.  Available through Knight Frank for €2.9m

4. Swains Cottage, Rudgwick

Back on UK soil, this stylish property combines all the features of a quintessentially English cottage with contemporary interiors and comforts, including a sleek fitted kitchen and separate annexe. Outside, you will find a wisteria-shaded seating and dining area, with velvety green lawns stretching out the surrounding countryside. Ideal for keen riders and ramblers, the proximity to the Downs Link offers footpaths and bridleways, surrounded by miles of beautiful scenery. Available through house. for £1.35m

5. Bushey Park, Leinster, Ireland

Set in a private location amidst the emerald hills of County Wicklow, Bushey Park is an exceedingly fine example of an Irish country estate. Dating back to the late Georgian era, the house is the picture of elegance and refined interiors, with principle reception rooms boasting high ceilings and long sash windows. Possible the greatest features, however, are the manifold delights of the gardens and grounds, resplendent with mature specimen trees and home to a number of wildlife species. The grand house was formerly home to the celebrated Irish-British singer Chris de Burgh. Available through Sotheby’s International Realty for €12.5m

6. Glandyfi Castle, Snowdonia

If drama is what you’re looking for, it doesn’t come much more thrilling than this Regency Gothic-style castle, built from local stone in the early 19th century. Inside, impressive period interiors feature mullioned windows, oak-panelled halls and a swoon-worthy octagonal library in the tower. The castle’s elevated position commands impressive views over the Snowdonia landscape, taking in the mountain range and Dovey Estuary. Available through Strutt & Parker for £2,850,000 

7. Old Ballikinrain House, Stirlingshire

Painted white with elegant dove-grey accents and built in the traditional U-shape, Old Ballikinrain exemplifies the best of a Scottish country house. Striking at the outset thanks to its facade and and maze-fronted driveway, the interior is equal grand, featuring high ceilings, an oak-panelled drawing room and elaborate cornicing. A particular feature is the cosy wooden kitchen, constructed using tumbler from the estate’s Douglas fir trees. Available through Savills for £2,350,000

8. Castera Verduzan, Midi-Pyreneess

Warm, elegant and inviting, this charming villa gives the impression of a classic English country house, transported into a traditional villa in the South of France – and thus enjoys the best of both worlds. The interiors – appropriately, romantic country in style – seamlessly combine original features like stone walls and exposed wooden beams, while lovely gardens and grounds (including a dreamy pool area and lake) instantly conjure up long, balmy summer days. Available through Knight Frank for €1,350,000

9. The Vines, Rattery, Devon

With its beautiful garden and modern interior, this sweet thatched cottage would be just the thing for a romantic weekend retreat. Having recently undergone total refurbishment, the rooms are contemporary, bright and airy, but retain classic country comforts like a woodburner and inglenook fireplace. French doors lead to the sunny lawn with a view of the village below, while the old stone bridge and stream can be seen from the cottage’s pretty front garden. Available through Stags for £575,000

10. Church Cottage, Sulhamstead, Reading

Dating back to the 16th century, this spacious Grade II residence would make an ideal country home for couples and families. It’s a charming, stylish house – look out for the supremely atmospheric bathroom, complete with roll-top tub – with cosy interiors, gorgeous gardens with a swimming pool and substantial equestrian facilities, ideal for keen horsemen and women. Available through Savills for £1,450,000

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