Val d'Amboise's
little gems
Between historic heritage and natural landscapes, this destination is home to a host of hidden treasures
In the very heart of Val de Loire, among its UNESCO World Heritage listed landscapes, Val d’Amboise is the promise of an exceptional stay, between historic experiences, relaxation and a real art of living. Settling down in Val d’Amboise, whether it’s for a weekend, a holiday or a longer period, means offering yourself the experience of life in the countryside, in the shade of hundred-year-old forests or sparkling vineyards, while enjoying the many services proposed across our 14 towns and 30,000 inhabitants, welcoming over a million visitors from all over the globe every year. The Val d’Amboise is a destination with a host of hidden gems, exceptional natural landscapes and an infinitely rich historic heritage.
Amboise
With almost 3,000 years of history, Amboise extends across the Loire. Founded by the Turons long before the Roman invasions, today, the city of Ambacia still presents a few historic remains on the Les Châteliers plateau, in the shadow of the Château Royal’s ramparts. Driven by the kings Charles VIII and later Francis I, Amboise became a royal city, with the court established there between the late 15th and mid-16th centuries. Kings, princes and great lords erected monuments here which would cross both time and history, inspired by the beauties of the Italian Renaissance. Some of the greatest artists of the time stayed here, such as Leonardo da Vinci, whose spirit can still be felt in the alleys of our city today. Between the twinkling waters of the Loire and the golden tuffeau stone, Amboise never ceases to amaze visitors. Its market, famous across France, and its lively streets packed with shops and restaurants enchant all those who set foot inside the town, whether it’s for a day or a lifetime!
Lussault-sur-Loire
Between Loire and the vineyards, the village of Lussault-sur-Loire is a must-visit for fans of cylotourism. The Loire à Vélo cycle route, which follows the course of the royal river, crosses right through this village. On the heights of the town, the Touraine Aquarium is home to several dozen aquatic species, both local and exotic. A meeting with the terrifying silurus, a giant catfish from the depths of the Loire, is sure to impress!
Cangey
Stretching out between the banks of the Loire and the northern slopes of Val d’Amboise, the village of Cangey is a place of tranquillity, halfway between the castles of Amboise and Chaumont-sur-Loire. Its streets are dotted with a rich local history, washhouses, vineyard lodges, mills and castles – not to mention the Fleuray Golf Course, sure to delight keen golfers. The Pierre de David menhir, which stands upon the ancient bed of the Loire, dates back to the neolithic era.
Chargé
The little village of Chargé, nestled against the southern hillsides of the Loire, is simply charming. Its subsoil is marked with a multitude of underground galleries – traces of the ancient stone quarries. Caves and cave homes have long taken over these sites for tour experiences allowing visitors to get as close as possible to the local land. Today, Chargé is still marked of the battle of 18 and 19 June 1940, which saw a regiment of colonial French troops heroically resist the inevitable advance of the German forces.
Limeray
Located on the Loire’s alluvial plain, Limeray has masterfully profited from the wealth this river offers. Vegetable-growing lands and vineyards stretch out from the town, allowing both locals and visitors to enjoy the fruits of the local land through very short supply chains. In the heart of the village, the former Palais de Justice bears witness to the residence of the royal provost, who doled out justice there in the Middle Ages. Mills and private castles spread out in a beautiful harmony, not far from the Château de Moncé, built on the remains of the former Cistercian abbey.
Mosnes
For fans of long-distance cycling along the Loire à Velo cycle route heading towards Blois, arriving in the village of Mosnes is a true delight! It is in Mosnes that the route joins the banks of the Loire, after a dozen kilometres crossing the magnificent, rolling landscapes of the winegrowing hills of the Touraine-Amboise appellation. In Mosnes, you’ll find even more vineyards, with beautiful alignments of grape varieties. However, you’ll also discover the wild landscapes of the Loire, grey herons and beavers nesting near the sand banks.
Montreuil-en-Touraine
Montreuil-en-Touraine is one of the most northern towns in Val d’Amboise. Its castle, built in the 15th century, has long since lost its structure. However, the local La Ferdasse association works to perpetuate this heritage. Each September, its volunteers come together, in costume, to re-enact the great events of the history of France. An incredible spectacle, often accompanied by a craft market. To the south of the village, the La Perchais stables allow enthusiasts to discover the surrounding countryside on horseback.
Nazelles-Négron
The village of Nazelles-Négron is packed full of exceptional built heritage. Alongside the beautiful private castles, now converted into holiday homes, several monuments are well worth a visit. Start your discovery off with the Grange de Négron, a 12th- to 15th-century tithe barn, and its magnificent wooden structure. Not forgetting, of course, the Church of Saint-Symphorien, which dates back to the 15th century. The No 12 cycle route, which runs along winegrowing roads, crosses the village towards the vineyards of Vouvray.
Neuillé-le-Lierre
Crossed by the Brenne, the village of Neuillé-le-Lierre is located in the far north of Val d’Amboise. Its Church of Saint-Pierre still retains a few 11th-century walls, as well as some stunning liturgical works. The Château Bellevue, a 19th-century bourgeois mansion, stands out for its classic, imposing architecture. This is a truly charming village for visitors in pursuit of absolute disconnection.
Saint-Règle
Located to the east of Amboise, the town of Saint-Règle stands out for its wooded, hilly landscapes. Several cycle routes cross the town. Its Church of Saint-Paul was built at the very end of the 19th century, in the Neo-Roman style. This quiet town is perfect for a peaceful stay, just a stone’s throw from the castles of Amboise.
Souvigny-de-Touraine
The village of Souvigny-de-Touraine is one of the smallest towns in Val d’Amboise. Between fields of forests, its landscapes are picturesque and its heritage rich, sometimes filled with mystery. The Manoir du Feuillet is said to have served as a hunting spot for King Louis XI. Isolated among the woods, the Moutoussant Chapel, today ruined and located on a private property, recalls the melancholy ruins of Scottish castles.
Noizay
Located on the northern hillsides of the Loire, the vineyards of Noizay extend across the Touraine-Amboise and Vouvray appellations. It was at the Domaine du Grand Coteau winery that the famous composer Francis Poulenc came to seek inspiration. In his beautiful hillside home, he shared moments of friendship with some of the greatest artists of the 20th century. Jean Cocteau, Colette and even Pablo Picasso stayed there.
Pocé-sur-Cisse
The park and its castle are a real haven of tranquillity for walkers. Each July, this peace is rocked by the traditional pottery market which draws a crowd of enthusiasts and artists. The Church of Saint-Adrien, dating back to the 16th century, is a fine example of religious architecture in this period. A multitude of little castles are dotted across the town, along with several cave homes, dug into the hillside.
Saint-Ouen-les-Vignes
The nave of this town’s church dates back to the 11th century, though several additions were made from the 16th century onwards. Several very ancient tombs can be discovered there. Not far away, the Château de Saint-Ouen-les-Vignes was built in the 17th century by Pierre Gabriel de Mollan, the king’s controller and financial intendant. The village is crossed by the Ramberge, while various bucolic walks make their way along its streets and alleys.
