We have loved Portugal's Pousadas and Spain's Paradores.
What other countries have something similar?
Not exactly similar, but in an Irish way, maybe some castles where you can stay (and/or eat?) in Ireland?
Incidentally, there is a Spanish Paradore in Portugal, BTW. We stayed at Casa Insua. Highly recommend.
I think this is a only a particular thing in the Iberian peninsula, in terms of a government program that does this kind of accommodations, I have not seen it anywhere else in the world.
I absolutely love the same unique lodging experiences myself, warts and all. Some are national treasures that are unbelievable ( Convento do Espinheiro, Evora, PT) Others precious in a historic, rustic charm sort of way (Chateau at the Oregon Caves, Cave Junction, Oregon)
Both Poland and Czech Republic have a plethora of castles you can stay in that run the same gamut of selections from unbelievable to rustic at very reasonable prices. Google “castle hotels in……Poland or Czech Republic”. They are privately run for the most part. I often find the private ones have more incentive to keep customers happy though. You’ll still be enjoying the history and ambience of these living walls.