Exploring the Enchanting Châteaux and Vineyards of the Loire Valley

Following in Da Vinci's Footsteps

Today, the seventh day of our Loire Valley adventure, was a day dedicated to the brilliance of Leonardo da Vinci and the grandeur of French royalty. Amboise, a town steeped in history, served as the perfect backdrop for exploring these intertwined legacies. With Elke and Maximilian by my side, I was eager to delve into the stories and artistry that permeate every corner of this charming town.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Auberge du Prieuré. The charming inn, with its rustic ambiance, was the perfect place to start the day. It is located within the park of Château du Clos Lucé and offers a beautiful view of the Château Royal d'Amboise. The croissants were flaky and buttery, the coffee strong and aromatic – just the fuel we needed for a day of exploration. I must admit, I felt a pang of guilt about forgetting my French phrasebook. Ordering became a comical charade of gestures and mispronounced words, but the friendly staff were patient and accommodating, adding a touch of humor to our morning.


Discover authentic French cuisine at Auberge du Prieuré in Amboise, where every dish tells a story of local tradition and flavor.

After breakfast, we made our way to Château du Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's final home. As a restorer of antique furniture, I've always held a deep reverence for the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the Renaissance period, and Da Vinci, of course, stands as one of its most towering figures. Walking through the rooms where he lived and worked felt like stepping back in time.


Explore the enchanting Château du Clos Lucé, the last residence of Leonardo da Vinci, where art, history, and nature converge in beautiful Amboise.

The château itself is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture, but it was the exhibits showcasing Da Vinci's inventions that truly captivated me. Seeing his sketches and models brought to life, from flying machines to intricate clockwork mechanisms, was awe-inspiring. Maximilian, with his keen interest in engineering, was particularly fascinated, peppering me with questions about the mechanics and purpose of each invention. Even Elke, who usually prefers the quieter pursuits of literature, was impressed by the sheer scope of Da Vinci's genius.

The gardens of Clos Lucé are also a testament to Da Vinci's vision, filled with recreations of his inventions and displays of his artistic endeavors. It was easy to imagine him strolling through these grounds, finding inspiration in the natural world around him. The weather was kind to us, with the spring sun casting a warm glow over the landscape, making our visit all the more enjoyable.

Art is never finished, only abandoned.

Leaving Clos Lucé, we walked towards the Château Royal d'Amboise, which dominates the town with its imposing presence. The walk itself was lovely, with charming streets and picturesque views of the Loire River. I paused for a moment, thinking of tomorrow's itinerary, which includes a visit to the Château de Chenonceau. I am already looking forward to comparing its architecture and history with what we've seen today.


Experience the grandeur of Château Royal d'Amboise, a historic castle offering stunning views, rich heritage, and beautiful gardens in the heart of the Loire Valley.

The Château Royal d'Amboise has a rich and complex history, having served as a royal residence for centuries. Walking through its grand halls and chambers, I could almost hear the echoes of royal footsteps and whispered conversations. The panoramic views from the château's ramparts were simply breathtaking, offering a sweeping vista of the Loire Valley.

Maximilian was particularly intrigued by the chapel of Saint-Hubert, where Leonardo da Vinci is buried. It was a poignant moment, standing before the tomb of such a remarkable man, reflecting on his contributions to art, science, and human understanding. The chapel itself is a beautiful example of Flamboyant Gothic architecture, adding to the solemnity of the occasion. Elke appreciated the historical significance of the château, noting its role in shaping French history and culture. She pointed out details in the architecture and artwork that I might have otherwise missed, enriching my understanding of the château's past.

For lunch, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte. The restaurant, located in a beautiful château overlooking the Loire Valley, offered a refined dining experience. The food was exquisite, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. I savored every bite of my perfectly cooked fish, while Elke enjoyed a flavorful vegetarian dish. Maximilian, ever the adventurous eater, opted for a hearty meat dish that he declared to be fantastisch!


Experience exquisite haute French cuisine at Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte in Coteaux-sur-Loire – a true culinary gem amidst stunning landscapes.

After lunch, we took some time to explore the town of Amboise itself. We wandered through its charming streets, admiring the half-timbered houses and browsing the local shops. I couldn't resist purchasing a small antique clock from a local artisan, a memento of our visit to this historic town. Elke found a charming bookstore where she picked up a collection of French poetry, while Maximilian was drawn to a shop selling handcrafted leather goods.

As evening approached, we sought out a place for dinner, settling on Restaurant le 36. The restaurant offered a modern take on classic French cuisine. The ambiance was elegant yet relaxed, and the service was impeccable. I enjoyed a delicious steak frites, while Elke opted for a creative seafood dish. Maximilian, true to form, chose the most decadent dessert on the menu – a chocolate lava cake that he devoured with gusto.


Experience authentic French cuisine with stunning river views at Restaurant le 36 in Amboise – where every meal is a celebration.

To cap off our day, we decided to visit Le Captain's, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. Though I am not usually one for bars, the lure of experiencing local nightlife was too strong to resist. We enjoyed a couple of glasses of local wine, soaking in the convivial atmosphere and chatting with the friendly locals. It was a perfect way to end a day filled with history, art, and culinary delights.


Discover Le Captain's: the ideal bar in Saint-Ouen-les-Vignes for refreshing drinks, local flavors, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am struck by the profound impact that Leonardo da Vinci had on this region. His presence is still palpable in every corner of Amboise, from the Château du Clos Lucé to the Château Royal. It was an honor to walk in his footsteps and to learn more about his remarkable life and legacy.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our Loire Valley adventure. We plan to visit the Château de Chenonceau and its Roseraie du Château, a fitting conclusion to our exploration of this enchanting region. I am eager to see what other treasures await us before we begin our journey back to Heidelberg. I am also hoping to find some time to visit La Boîte A Couture, a local shop I saw mentioned, as I am always on the lookout for unique finds.

Despite my initial hesitation about driving such a distance, I must admit that the journey has been well worth it. The Loire Valley has exceeded all of my expectations, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that we will cherish for years to come.