| Page Views: 127 Last Visit to Amboise: July, 2008 | Amboise: A Civilized Place by von.otter - last update: Mar 7, 2009 |
| Town of Amboise seen across the River Loire, 07/08 |
“You may go to Amboise either from Blois or from Tours; it is about half-way between these towns.
The great point is to go.” — from “A Little Tour In France” 1884 by Henry James
What was true in 1884 is true today, when visiting the Loire Valley, make a point to go to Amboise.
It is a sweet town of roughly 11,500 souls on the left bank of the River Loire. If you are a fan of history and architecture you will enjoy a visit here. Much took place in this market town that shaped the history of France, with ramifications for Western civilization.
There is free parking near the tourist information center by the river, just to the west of the bridge. Leave your car there and wander the streets. Visit the château, with its grand view of the river, and further in town, visit the manor house, Clos-Lucé, which was the last home of the Renaissance genius, Leonardo da Vinci.
The River Loire is lovely at this point, especially toward sunset. There is an island in the river near the bridge; locals fish from the riverbank or from boats.
It is a very relaxing town, with a civilized pace about it. Enjoy! |
| Château d’Amboise, July 2008 |
|  | The rock promontory upon which Château d’Amboise is built has been part of a defensive position of this area of the River Loire since the Gallo-Roman period. Once on the château's ground it is easy to see the advantage from this position. |
Although proudly lit at night, the castle seems to hold secrets in the dark. | | | Château d’Amboise, July 2008 |
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| Pros: | "Great history and natural beauty combine to entice." | | In A Nutshell: | "I would like to live here." |
von.otter's Amboise Travel Tips
 Comments for von.otter about Amboise | | | | |
jumpingnorman Wed Apr 15, 2009 01:01 UTC
That is so hard to pronounce for me - Leclerc!!! Have a nice day, Norman :) | Beausoleil Mon Mar 16, 2009 19:30 UTC
Beautiful photos. Looks like you were there on the perfect day. | hquittner Wed Feb 18, 2009 16:50 UTC
Excellent Chanteloup Tip for a place we unfortunately detoured by. | pedroswift Thu Nov 20, 2008 02:32 UTC
Enjoyed muchly reading your Ambois & other French tips. Well done. de p. |
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