Five of the best places to escape to with family and friends in 2013
Farmhouse, Blackberry Farm, Walland, Tennessee, USA
Crafted of materials from an 1800s Pennsylvania bank barn, this classic American farmhouse forms part of the exclusive Blackberry Farm, one of America’s most celebrated luxury culinary escapes. Set in 4,200-acres, this stylish property includes 3 bedrooms and is perfect for families and small groups. An on-site chef service is available and rates start at $4,800 per night.
Branche d’Olive, Aveyron, midi-Pyrenees, France
Owned by a well-known English journalist, this large stone gîte in the South-West of France comfortably sleeps a family of four and is just 20-minutes from Villefranche. It has an outdoor pool, a private terrace and even an ancient stone pizza oven. Prices start at £425 per week.
Mill Cottage, near Taunton, Somerset, England
Spacious Mill Cottage on Sir Benjamin Slade’s Maunsel House estate in Somerset sleeps up to 10 people. Prices start at £675 per night and for those looking for a location for a wedding or somewhere for a corporate event, the welcoming and efficient team here can cater for your every whim.
The Old Kirk, Kilninver, near Oban, Scotland
With views across the waters where Enigma and Ring of Bright Water were filmed, The Old Kirk in Argyll provides accommodation for 6 to 8 people. Fishing is available on the owner’s 3,000-acre estate on 3 lochs and the River Euchar. Prices start at £495 per week.
The Samling, Windermere, Cumbria, England
The Samling can be rented in its entirety from £4,500 per night. Set in 67 acres, this 11-bedroom property has been used by Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Stella McCartney and David and Victoria Beckham amongst others. It is the perfect base from which to explore the Lake District and the views across Lake Windermere are stunning.
Blackberry Farm: http://www.blackberryfarm.com
Branche d’Olive: http://www.branchedolive.co.uk
Mill Cottage: http://www.maunselhouse.co.uk
The Old Kirk: http://www.kilninver-estate.co.uk
The Samling: http://www.thesamlinghotel.co.uk