Ring the bell on the gate, to enter gardens that are secluded, charming, full of colour with a babbling brook. Here in the heart of Burgundy country you are immersed in the silence of a valley of vines. Light spills into the sitting room through arched vine-clad windows while cream walls and Indian rugs add to the simple elegance of this maison de maître. Antiques and travel are the owners’ passion, and David’s gentle Irish brogue is enchanting (no surprise to hear he has interviewed European royalty for a prestigious magazine). The grand staircase in the centre of this gracious house would not be out of place on a 1930s luxury cruise liner, while interesting paintings and handsome oriental fabrics add up to a mix of styles that work beautifully. Bedrooms vary in size and have lovely seersucker linen and antique prints; bathrooms are classically tasteful. Terraced lawns lead down to the heated pool, the meadows and trees, lavish breakfasts include unusual homemade jams, and the wonderful Voie Verte cycle route, along the former railway, runs nearby.
Don’t think I can find the words to praise L’Orangerie and David and Niels enough! Dinner and breakfast stupendous and generous – so well thought out and cooked, and their wine choices wonderful. Rooms delightful and beds comfortable. We could have spent days poring over the books in the living room and hearing about the background of the two hosts and the history and countries they knew about. A delightful and fascinating couple. We stayed 2 nights - not enough so we’ll be back.