When Welsh terrier Sadie joined the family, the Nelsons had to rethink their French pied-à-terre, choosing a stylish house in Burgundy with period credentials, says Amanda Harling
Francophiles Susie and David Nelson had for some time owned several holiday homes in and around the picturesque Provencal town of Uzès, but once Sadie, an energetic Welsh terrier, joined their household the couple began the search for a new home from home.
“Dogs aren’t allowed on flights to and from the UK, so long weekends in Uzès were no longer practical. We took the decision to sell up in Uzès and find another property. Out came the map and we explored the various possibilities before settling on Burgundy, a mere five-hour drive from Calais.
“We contacted various estate agents and visited several times over two years, looking at houses and towns in this large and diverse area. We found this place one weekend when we came over to view properties. As soon as we saw it we agreed it was more or less exactly what we were looking for.
“The house in the small town of Saulieu is a handsome, stone-built hotel particulier, with the main portion dating from 1770, located within easy walking distance of shops and restaurants. It has a spacious walled garden at the rear, redesigned for us by our garden designer friend, Annabelle Barran (annabellebarran.com).
Being able to pop to the bakery for fresh croissants in the morning, or take an evening stroll to one of the local bistros for dinner is what life in France is all about.”
SEASONAL SPLENDOUR
On the ground floor, there are three main reception rooms overlooking the garden.
Upstairs there are six bedrooms and bathrooms. “We felt that the house had good bones. The key reception rooms flowed from one to another and we liked being able to sleep 12 people over Christmas and holiday weekends, though generally we have fewer to stay – six or eight, or just the two of us and Sadie, of course.
“The way the rooms interconnect and flow means that for a large house it feels cosy. Fortunately, our housekeeper, Fredèrique, lives nearby. She was recommended by a dog owner I got talking to while
