Séverine Pétilaire-Bellet: At 16, while I was an au pair in Scotland, I visited Edinburgh with my sister. As we passed the 100 Princes Street Hotel, I told her, “One day, I'll work in a hotel like that.” I had dreamt of being a flight attendant, but in that moment, the hotel world felt like the obvious path. A profession combining hospitality, human connection, and a sense of excellence.

Axel Nérin: I've always been fascinated by the hospitality world. I grew up in La Réunion, far from the grandeur of luxury hotels. But through my experiences in star-rated establishments, I came to understand the true essence of this profession: offering moments of joy and leaving a lasting impression that stays with each guest long after their visit.

S.P-B.: I was immediately drawn by Axel's wisdom and sense of discipline. He's methodical and composed, while I'm more like a tornado! (laughter) It's this complementarity that makes our partnership so strong. It's also why I invited him to join me as a partner. He fully deserves his place by my side in this adventure.

A.N.: Our mutual trust and constant communication allow us to make the best decisions and take on ambitious projects. We have deep respect for one another and a genuine admiration for each other's strengths, which creates a natural synergy.

S.P-B.: Château Sainte Sabine was love at first sight. We wanted to bring it back to life by restoring the spirit of the Age of Enlightenment, while preserving its soul. Every renovation respects original materials, thanks to the remarkable craftsmanship of our local artisans.

A.N.: Hostellerie de Levernois is a refined residence in the regional style. The lap pool, inspired by Burgundy's traditional wash houses, is a eloquent example. Our aim is to blend modern comfort with historic charm, offering our guests an authentic experience.

S.P-B.: Absolutely. In partnership with the National Forest Office, we've planted 5,000 trees and thousands of flower species suited not just to today's climate, but to that of the next 50 years. We're committed to honouring our natural heritage so future generations can continue to enjoy its beauty.

A.N.: We have also developed a vegetable garden and installed a water recovery system and lighting adapted to protect local wildlife. Our goal is to offer a refuge where guests feel at home while knowing that their stay contributes towards preserving the richness and beauty of our planet.