La Belle Amboise Weekend Getaway

January 2020

Leonardo da Vinci decided to make the quaint village of Amboise France his home and resided there until his death, after a weekend away in Amboise we understand why. Oh Amboise how lovely you are, the village seduces visitors with sweet wee boutiques, a gorgeous chateau perched high over the village, and restaurants that boast both excellent French cuisine as well as friendly welcoming staff. The charms of Amboise are plentiful; here are a few of our favourites:

Chateau Royal d’Amboise

The gardens of the Chateau Royal d’Amboise surround the manor and provide a quiet, sweetly scented sanctuary. You will want to stay awhile when visiting this lovely castle high up on a hill in Amboise. The chateau may be small but the magical combination of spectacular landscape and architecture enchants even the most jaded visitor. After touring the chateau, purchase a glass of wine from the small restaurant on-site and imagine the D’Vinci wandering the same grounds.

Where to Stay in Amboise

Located in the heart of Amboise, Hotel Le Pavillion des Lys is lovely both inside and out. Upon arrival, you feel as if you are entering a grand house with beautifully appointed rooms that seamlessly marries modern conveniences within its historic architecture. Do not miss breakfast, it was the best we experienced during our stay in the Loire Valley.

Where to Shop and Eat in Amboise

Wander down Rue Nationale, Amboise’s pedestrian-only street and head under the ancient clock tower to visit some of the best boutiques in town, our picks include:

La Petite Boutique – 3 Rue Nationale. The perfect place to find a little treasure to take home.

Carnaby – 44 Rue Nationale, Oh la la women’s fashions, casual to chic.

Raimb’ o Fromages – 61 Rue Nationale. A boutique cheese shop in a small French village, need we say more?

Galland Terroirs – 27 Rue Nationale, Gourmet food shop offering the best of the region, shop here for wines and all that would accompany un bon verre du vin.

Patisserie Bigot Salon de The – 2 Rue Nationale. The best place in town for pastries, both to eat and to look at, always busy, always delicious.

After you’ve wandered the shops and toured the chateau head over to L’Alliance, 14 Rue Joyeuse, for a good traditional French dinner.

Amboise is the perfect place for a relaxing weekend getaway in France’s lovely Loire Valley. Easily reached by train from Paris, pack a bag, grab your BFF and in a couple of hours you’ve arrived dans la belle Amboise, the ultimate authentic France experience.

Rail Europe (Americas)