Amboise and Clos Lucé from Romorantin: a day trip plan

How long is the drive to Amboise?

Allow an hour from the cottage. The route follows the Cher valley, then heads up to the Loire. All times are door to door, from the house.

• Château du Clos Lucé: 59 min, 71 km.
• Royal Château of Amboise: 62 min, 85 km by the fastest route.
• Château de Chenonceau: 52 min, 62 km, on the way back.

Once in Amboise, park once: the royal château and Clos Lucé are linked by a street you walk in about ten minutes.

What do you see at Clos Lucé?

Clos Lucé was Leonardo da Vinci's last home. Invited by François I, he moved in in 1516 and died there on 2 May 1519.

The visit takes in his bedroom and reconstructed workshops, then rooms of models built from his drawings. In the park his machines are reproduced full size and several can be operated: this is the part children like best.

What do you see at the Royal Château of Amboise?

The château stands above the Loire and the old town. Charles VIII and François I lived here, and the Saint-Hubert chapel holds the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci.

Leave time for the terraces and gardens: the view over the river is the reason to climb up here.

How should you plan the day?

Start with Clos Lucé at opening time, have lunch in the old town, then go up to the royal château in the afternoon. Check tickets and hours on the official websites, which sell dated tickets in high season.

• With a second château: drive back via Chenonceau (52 min from the cottage), late in the afternoon when the groups have left.
• With children: the Touraine Aquarium in Lussault-sur-Loire is 66 min from the cottage and a few kilometres from Amboise.
• On the way back: Montrichard (40 min from the cottage), with its keep and summer beach on the Cher, or Château de Montpoupon (52 min).

The Amboise Val de Loire tourist office lists events and car parks. For the other châteaux within reach of the cottage, see our guide to the Loire châteaux from Romorantin.

Why set off from Romorantin?

Because one base covers Amboise, Chambord (43 min) and Beauval (38 min) without repacking. The house sleeps 6 in 3 bedrooms, with an enclosed garden and private parking. Details are on the cottage page, prices (allow €130 a night for 4 guests, taxes and fees included) on rates and booking.