Gîte Léonardo's View Point
Take in the same view Leonardo da Vinci used in 1517 to admire (and possibly even sketch) the castle of Amboise at the cottage lodging of Le Point De Vue De Leonard. You won't be sleeping in the exact same bed, as natural materials were used to rebuild and restore the cottage in 2016, but you can still gaze out the window.
There are two separate floors that you can book separately or as a whole. The ground floor offers a standard bedroom arrangement and old fireplaces in the troglodyte cave style, while the first floor includes a glass wall facing the castle, dining and living areas, and a private terrace for those who want to use the kitchen and feel right at home.
Le Clos d'Amboise
Le Clos d'Amboise sits in the center of town, within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the three main castles. The 17th-century house was converted into a hotel in 2003 and given further luxury upgrades in 2011, keeping up with modern touches while still maintaining historical luxuries like the wood paneling, fireplaces, and 18th-century Versailles oak parquet in two salons.
Stop in the on-site restaurant for regional cuisine, or take a dip in the pool amid rose bushes and cedar trees. Then walk out the door and into a park or onto the terrace surrounded by centuries-old trees.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Au Charme Rabelaisien
Also located in the center of Amboise with excellent castle proximity, the 10 rooms of Au Charme Rabelaisien look out over castle views, scenic gardens, and picturesque rooftops. They also offer amenities like hydromassage showers, private terraces, and plush accessories.
Relax in the spa's intimate jacuzzi and sauna that can be reserved for up to two people. Swim in the heated outdoor pool by day, then enjoy a cocktail in the garden by night.
Le Manoir Saint Thomas
Find even more manor architecture in the Amboise city center at Le Manoir Saint Thomas. The building started life as the home of an officer of the King's Court in the early 18th century and was at one point sold to a family that maintained it from 1776 all the way through 1986.
Le Manoir and its 10 personalized rooms sit in the Old Town in the heart of a tree-filled park. Statues of angels sit alongside the greenery and the heated outdoor pool. If it's not swimming weather, opt for an in-room massage or recline in the grand salon instead.
Chateau des Grotteaux
In the city of Blois, you'll find the Chateau des Grotteaux on the banks of the Cosson. Built in 1620, the Grotteaux was the home of Guillaume Ribier, where he acquired an extensive collection of books. Later, Napoleon Bonaparte sent seeds from a botanical expedition to the chateau, including the bald cypress still on the property. The walled park surrounding the property makes it an ideal escape, though not ideal for those without transportation.
A restoration in 2015 helped bring the roof, facades, woodwork, and 17th-century murals back to their former opulence using original techniques while also adding modern upgrades to amenities like the tennis court and swimming pool. Living rooms and bedrooms are designed for maximum relaxation with historical and artistic touches, including furniture.