The chateaux
1. The two big ones are Chambord and Chenonceau, both of which are unmissable (definitely use the audio guides for both). I also strongly recommend Villandry (for its magnificent gardens) and Azay-le-Rideau, a small jewel of a place, best seen in the late afternoon sun – note that it closes for the winter months.
2. Also, for anyone with an interest in Leonardo da Vinci, the Close Luce in Amboise is unmissable. It is a house where Leonardo spent his final three years (and died) being provided to him as a result of the largesse of the French king. The house itself is very interesting. However, what is absolutely fascinating are the models of Leonardo’s inventions, made with the sponsorship of IBM, in the downstairs area. You then go into a fine terrace garden. Finally, don’t miss the front lawns where there are much larger representations of his designs, as well as some other exhibits which share some of his thinking. The operators have obviously made a huge investment into what is an excellent memorial to a great man.
For children
3. There are mazes at Villandry and Chenonceau.
4. There is a children’s garden at Chambord.
5. At Mosnes (about 5km east of Amboise) there is an outdoor centre which has go-karts, climbing equipment, a flying fox, etc. (Closes the first Sunday in November for the winter).
6. South of Amboise there is a mini-chateau complex which apparently has realistic replicas of the various chateaux (again, closes early November for the winter.)
7. Children will enjoy the outdoor activities at the da Vinci house in Amboise (above).
A restaurant suggestion
8. Other contributors have suggested a number of restaurants in the area, including l’Arbelle, which is just south of Amboise. I particularly agree with the recommendations of IanK9, and Heolia, about the restaurant Le Diable des Plaisirs, which I regard as unmissable if you want to experience an outstanding local restaurant featuring regional cuisine. It is in the small, pleasant (but otherwise unexceptional) village of St Branchs (2 av. des Morroniers, tel 02.47.26.33.44). It is about 20 minutes south of Tours and 30 minutes south-west of Amboise. Although the red, orange and yellow colour scheme wasn’t exactly to my taste, everything else was exceptional. Remembering that this is not formal French dining, but rather a regional experience, the food was excellent. The front-of-house (Celine) was charming. Admire the interesting artwork and most unusual crockery (the container for the mashed potato was particularly quirky) and other excellent small touches. They make for an outstanding dining experience. It is not open Wednesday or Sunday evenings. Their website is at www.restaurantlediabledesplaisirs.com. Like all French family restaurants, they close from time to time for one or two weeks, usually during school holidays.
A patisserie suggestion
9. South of Tours is the small town of Veigne. On the road into the town centre, you cross the river and one of the first shops on your right is a wonderful patisserie. Try the chocolate donut for a taste sensation. Or grab some more healthy food and wander back to the river for a picnic (on the right hand side, past the medical centre, there is a grassy area and rotunda – if you are lucky, you will also have some kayaking training to entertain you).
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Hi Michael,
thanks for the info, we are planning a trip to this part of France and it always helps to get inside information. I know we will want to visit where Leonardo stayed and the highlight will be the models. Thanks for sharing the info, I really appreciate it! Good luck on your travels. lucy
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