The day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Discovering the castles of Amboise and Clos Lucé
Your getaway begins at Amboise, charming a city in the Loire region near ToursCradled by the Loire River and the mild climate of the Touraine region, this charming city captivates with its peaceful atmosphere and lively center. While crossing the river, be sure to stop at... the golden island alongside Leonardo da Vinci, to contemplate the elegant silhouette of the Amboise castleA breathtaking view!
Then continue on to the majestic royal castle of Amboise And feel free to borrow an Histopad for an interactive visit.
The richly furnished rooms, the architectural details, and the atmosphere emanating from the castle transport you to the era of the kings of FranceAt the end of the route, take the time to appreciate the exceptional view from one of the cavalier towers.
Then, Heading towards Clos Lucé, located a stone's throw from the Royal Château of Amboise. This iconic place was the Leonardo da Vinci's last residenceIt is also said that an underground passage connects the two castles, allowing King Francis I to discreetly visit his friend…
Today, Clos Lucé is a site where young and old can explore the world of Leonardo da VinciThe castle and its grounds display an impressive collection of models, sketches, and objects inspired by the inventions of this artist, engineer, and visionary. A perfect family outing!
Day 2: Excursions to Château Gaillard and the Pagoda of Chanteloup
To begin this second day in Amboise, let's head towards the discreet, but unmissable Château GaillardNestled in a verdant setting, this 15-hectare estate is perfect for a bucolic stroll. The site surprises with its troglodytic caves, such as the mysterious olfactory grotto, where your senses will be engaged, or the Devil's Cave, steeped in legend…
Under a clear sky, the King's gardens offer themselves to you like a lush haven Renaissance-inspiredThis park, designed by the botanist monk Dom Pacello da Mercogliano for Charles VIII, was conceived as an experimental garden. Conclude your visit with the royal orangery before entering the Italian-inspired castle.
Come and enjoy the countryside at the Chanteloup PagodaLocated 10 minutes from Amboise, this unusual place, nestled in a landscaped park designed in the 18th century by the Duke of Choiseul, is a true invitation to travel.
Climbing the 149 steps to the top is well worth the effort: you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the forest and the Amboise castleThe Asian-inspired park is ideal for a stroll or a picnic by the water, not to mention the family activities: boat rides, wooden games and treasure hunts.
Day 3: Stop at Valmer Castle
For this third day, heading for the Valmer castleNestled in Chançay, overlooking the Brenne Valley, a secondary tributary of the Loire, this château is particularly distinguished by its lovely terraced gardens. These gardens extend harmoniously along two main axes, following the slope of the hillside. Every step along these paths holds its share of surprises: an imposing avenue lined with chestnut trees, and... fountains inspired by Florence, a vast vegetable garden and even a large rectangle of yew trees, a tribute to the castle that once stood there. The immense vegetable garden boasts hundreds of old or forgotten varieties of fruits, vegetables, edible flowers, as well as a rich collection of table grapes and grape varieties typical of the Loire Valley.
Pass by Valmer, it's also about tasting the Vouvray wines The vineyard has covered 35 hectares for over 16 centuries and its sparkling wines can be enjoyed during the Valmerapérossummer gatherings where it's good to raise a glass with friends.
Day 4: Expedition to the Château de la Bourdaisière
Head to Montlouis-sur-Loire to discover the splendid Bourdaisière castleExpect to be impressed by its vast 55-hectare park and remarkable gardens, including the famous national tomato conservatoryBetween June and September, don't miss the outdoor kitchen set up in the dahlia garden!
Although the castle is primarily distinguished by its high-end rooms, it also hosts exhibitions to discover during your visit.
Day 5: Visit to Nitray Castle
How about discovering a splendid wine estate located on the grounds of a 16th-century castle? Then let's head to the Nitray Castle, located in Athée-sur-Cher!
In the heart of the Touraine countryside, its tuff walls The dazzling sights will leave you speechless. A visit to the castle will allow you to learn more about its history. wine expertise : cellars housing white, red and rosé wines, as well as the discovery of the traditional method of champagne production, followed by a tasting of the estate's wines.
Day 6: Highlight at Chenonceau Castle
End your getaway in the heart of castles near Amboise au Chenonceau Castle, a Renaissance jewel built in the image of a Venetian palace, which elegantly spans the CherNicknamed the Ladies' CastleIt owes its renown to the women who lived in and embellished it, such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici.
Chenonceau can be explored in many ways: on foot, by bike, by canoe along the Cher river, and even by hot air balloon. Certainly one of the most beautiful castles in the Loire Valley !
