CHÂTEAU ROYAL D’AMBOISE
Constructed on the site of a medieval castle, Château d’Amboise was place of residence for French kings from the 15th to the 19th centuries, its destiny is inextricably linked to the history of France. Numerous literary figures and artists were invited here, like Leonardo da Vinci whose tomb is at the château along with a statue to the artist in the gardens. Located high on a hill in the town of Amboise the chateau now makes for a top ten destination in the Loire Valley region.
www.chateau-amboise.com
The Château d’Amboise sits high up above the picturesque town of the same name which is also an excellent place to spend a few hours with many apparel and souvenir shops along side a bountiful collection of coffee shops and restaurants. The château has extensive gardens, views down on the town and the Loire river and the amazing spiral rampart which allowed a horse drawn carriage to access the inner courtyards. The castle has been extensively modified over the years and the current building is only a small portion of the construction at the time of King Charles VI. The Château web site has an excellent section on the history.
Our recommendations for the Amboise area include the Brasserie Hippeau which benefits from being slightly off the main street and for accommodation, the excellent Château des Arpentis which is a short 10 minutes drive from the center of Amboise.
