I would also add that in the US, at least, I do not think "countryside" is commonly used except in proper names of businesses or organizations. Much more commonly, we would hear "I'm going to the beach (or the mountains or the river, etc)".

Thanks Ben. After reading your helpful examples too, perhaps we can develop a tentative rule that: a) the "country" relates to non-urban areas in general and b) the "countryside" relates more specifically to rural areas where people go for recreation and which are usually beautiful.

Echoing Michael, I'd like to further elaborate on the subject by giving some examples. Before we look at these examples, let's look at the definitions. the country - (note the word "the") = districts and small settlements outside large urban areas or the capital. Example: We are in London Tuesdays to Thursdays. At weekends, we are in the country. (We don't say, "We are in the countryside,") Example: We live in the country. We love the Gloucestershire countryside. (We don't say, "We live in the countryside.") Example: Even when in London, he always dresses as if he was in the country: in a tweed suit and a pair of brown brogues. Definition of "countryside" - the land and scenery of a rural area. Example: Gatcombe Park is the private country home of the Princess Royal in Gloucestershire. Highgrove, the country residence of her brother, the Prince Charles, is only a few miles away. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful surrounding countryside by taking long walks, even in the rain. The country seat of the Dukes of Devonshire is Chatsworth. It is set in beautiful parkland surrounded by hundreds of acres of lovely Derbyshire countryside. This is the British usage, peculiar to the socio-economic history and culture of Britain. Perhaps native speakers from other English-speaking countries may come forward to explain the usage in their countries?

This is an answer from my own usage of the language in the UK. "I love the country / countryside" (both OK and mean the same) "I am going walking in the country / countryside" (both OK and mean the same) "My country is England" (never "countryside") "She's a country girl" (never "countryside") The meaning is that she is from a rural area i.e. from the country / countryside "The countryside is beautiful" (the rural scenery and landscapes) Not "country" here I am sorry but the usage seems very specific to the context. It's not easy for me to determine a good rule and perhaps more experienced teachers can assist. However, the usage is normal across the UK and is not just my own.

You are welcome. Let us all enjoy and preserve the countryside.