Holidays in Amboise: discover this charming destination

holidays in Amboise: discover this charming destination

Nestled on the banks of the Loire, the town of Amboise, located in the district of Loches, in the Centre-Val de Loire region, seduces with its history and natural beauty. Amboise, which means “between two waters”, takes its name from its unique geographical position, located between the Loire and the Amasse. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is witness to a fascinating historical past. If you dream of spending a few days of vacation in Amboise, here is a complete guide to discover its attractions, its restaurants, its climate, and more.

What to visit in Amboise?

Amboise is rich in monuments and exceptional tourist sites. The main attraction of the city is the royal castle of Amboise, a Renaissance masterpiece, erected between the 15th and 16th centuries. This majestic castle houses the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci, an emblematic figure of the Renaissance. Continue your exploration by visiting Clos Lucé castle, where Vinci spent his final years, and admire some of his works in the Leonardo Gardens.

For nature lovers, a boat trip on the Grande Pièce d’Eau, near the Chanteloup Pagoda, is a must. After an ascent of 44 meters, you will be rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view of the Loire Valley and the Amboise forest.

The Royal Estate of Chateau Gaillard also immerses you in the Renaissance era. In the heart of a vast forest, you can admire flower beds, greenhouses, orange groves and stained glass windows that tell the story of the 16th century. If you are traveling with family, the Mini-Châteaux Park will delight your children with reduced replicas of the largest castles in the region.

What activities to choose around Amboise?

The Centre-Val de Loire region is full of exciting activities. For a unique experience, opt for a hot air balloon flight. Fly over the Loire Valley and the Valley of the Kings of France and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding castles. You can also go by minibus to discover the famous castles of Chambord, Cheverny and Chenonceau, all located a few kilometers from Amboise.

Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted to discover the circuits set up around Amboise. These trails cross varied landscapes, between forests, vineyards and the banks of the Loire. Some walks are accessible on foot, by canoe or kayak, for total immersion in nature. Take advantage of these hikes to stop off on the small wild islands of the Loire.

Be sure to visit the Amboise market, voted the French’s favorite market in 2015. This lively market, which is held every Friday and Sunday morning on the banks of the Loire, is a real place of conviviality, ideal for discovering local products and interacting with locals.

Where to stay in Amboise and its surroundings?

To fully enjoy your stay, it is important to choose a good place to stay. Amboise offers a wide range of accommodation options, from charming B&Bs to modern hotels. To discover Amboise at your own pace, you can book a bed and breakfast in Amboise, ideally located near the Amboise castle.

Some examples of places to stay

Domaine La Vigneronne, located 10 minutes from Amboise in Saint-Ouen–les-Vignes, is perfect for families. It offers separate bedrooms and a shaded garden where children can play. If you are looking for a quiet and friendly place, the La Clé des Champs residence in Limeray offers an apartment with free Internet access and television.

Le Moulin de Chareau, located in Reugny, is an ideal option for couples and families. This estate includes four spacious bedrooms in a 5-hectare park with heated swimming pool. Finally, if you want to visit the Chenonceau castle, the Le Magnolia gîte, located just 5 km from Chenonceau, is an excellent option.

What about gastronomy in Amboise?

Amboise is a wine-growing town which benefits from the Touraine-Amboise Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée. This region is renowned for its wines, notably Vouvray, but also for grape varieties such as Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Many restaurants and guest houses offer local gastronomic specialties such as rillettes, fouées, goat cheese and Geline de Touraine.

Prepare your trip to Amboise

The best time to discover Amboise is between June and September, when the sunshine is optimal and the temperatures pleasant, around 23°C to 26°C. However, be prepared for a few rainy days, especially in May, June and December. To get around Amboise, you can opt for the bus, which serves the city every day of the week except public holidays and Sunday mornings. Bikes are also available for rental and allow you to discover the city in complete freedom. The segway is another fun option for exploring the city.

If you would like to know more about activities to do and upcoming events in Amboise, Click here.

Amboise and the Loire Valley are full of castles and churches which testify to the importance of the Renaissance in the history of France. For a stay that is both pleasant and affordable, opt for guest rooms in Amboise, which will offer you a warm and intimate experience just a few steps from the most beautiful tourist sites.