The Luxury Travel Bible

The World's Ultimate Destination Guide

Top Ten Luxury

Big Houses

From fairytale castles to exotic villas and from traditional farmhouses to cool, contemporary pads for parties, The Big Domain (www.thebigdomain.com) has handpicked some of the very best large properties to rent - ideal for groups of friends, big family get-togethers or the ultimate 'buddymoon'.

Claire Southern, 27/3/12

Ackergill Tower, Wick, Caithness, Scotland (sleeps 52)

The definition of getting away from it all - perched overlooking the sea on Scotland's far northern coast, Ackergill is unlike anywhere else.

Almira, Salcombe, Devon (sleeps 12)

Who needs St Tropez when the south Devon coast has scenery to die for?

Domaine Escudes, Montaubin, near Toulouse, France (sleeps 14)

Sky-blue shutters and a sweeping front staircase at the end of a gravelled drive shaded by pine trees - this is a quintessentially French country retreat.

El Molino del Conde, Villanueva de Tapia, Malaga, Spain (sleeps 24)

For a real family holiday with something for everyone, this traditional Andalucian house is a great option.

Felin Newydd House, Llandefalle, Brecon Beacons, Wales (sleeps 18)

Rumours abound that the latest James Bond film may be coming to the Brecon Beacons, and if it's good enough for 007...

Mas de la Serra, Teruel, Aragon, Spain (sleeps 20)

Looking out from the terrace of this beautiful traditional stone farmhouse in a remote part of eastern Spain, there is not a house in sight, just dreamy views over the almond farm and hills.

Neet Meadow, Stratton, Bude, Cornwall (sleeps 16)

Cool and minimalist with plenty of light, hardwood floors and sleek furniture, Neet Meadow is a chic, modern hideaway on Cornwall's north coast.

Tregulland Cottage and Barn, St Clether, Launceston, Cornwall (sleeps 22)

A gorgeous indoor freshwater pool (the first in the UK), luxurious outdoor wood-fired Dutch Tub and catering available from Jack Stein (son of Rick) make Tregulland one of Cornwall's secret treasures.