21/07/2026
🐾 – Where It All Began
January 2011.
Just a few months earlier, Darren, Flossy and I had packed up our lives in the UK and taken a leap into the unknown.
This photo was taken after we had successfully completed our very first Christmas season as Chalet Managers for Mountain Action at the beautiful Chalet Chardon Bleu in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, in the heart of the French Alps.
Looking back now, it's hard to believe.
Neither of us came from a hospitality background. We arrived with determination, a willingness to work hard, and one very important travelling companion – Flossy. 🐾
One of our biggest worries when leaving the UK was whether anyone would employ a couple with a dog.
As it turned out, every single position we were offered welcomed dogs.
That simple fact changed our lives.
Flossy wasn't just our pet; she was part of the adventure. She accompanied us through mountain winters, new careers, new friendships and ultimately our journey to building a life in France.
Today, as we launch Dog Friendly South France, it's a reminder that some of life's greatest opportunities begin when you're brave enough to take a chance.
And sometimes all you need is a little dog by your side.
❤️ In memory of Flossy (2005–2019)
She showed us the way.