Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
his paintings. The models make clear that much of what Leonardo observed and created
was based on his intense study of nature.
Other Sights and Activities
▲
Château Royal d'Amboise Sound-and-Light Show
If you're into S&L, this is considered one of the best shows of its kind in the area. Al-
though it's entirely in French, you can buy the English booklet for €5. Volunteer locals
from toddlers to pensioners re-create the life of François I with costumes, juggling, im-
pressive light displays, and fireworks. Dress warmly.
Cost and Hours:
Bench-€14, chair-€17, family deals, only about 20 performances a
year, 1.5-hour show, Wed and Sat late June-July 22:30-24:00, Aug 22:00-23:30, tel. 02 47
571447,
www.renaissance-amboise.com
.Theticketwindowisontheramptothechâteau
and opens at 20:30.
Mini-Châteaux
Thisfive-acreparkontheedgeofAmboise(ontheroutetoChenonceaux)showsthemajor
Loire châteaux in 1:25-scale models, forested with 2,000 bonsai trees and laced togeth-
er by a model TGV train and river boats. For children, it's a fun introduction to the real
châteaux they'll be visiting (and there's a cool toy store). Essential English information is
posted throughout the sight.
You'll find other kid-oriented attractions at Mini-Châteaux; consider playing a round
of mini-golf and feeding the fish in the moat (a great way to get rid of that old baguette).
Cost and Hours:
Adults-€14, kids-€10, daily June-Aug 10:00-20:00, Sept-Oct
10:30-18:00, April-May 10:30-19:00, closed Nov-March, last entry one hour before clos-
ing, tel. 02 47 23 44 57,
www.decouvrez-levaldeloire.com
.
Caveau des Vignerons
This small
cave
offers free tastings of cheeses, pâtés, and regional wines from 10 different
vintners (daily mid-March-mid-Nov 10:00-19:00, under Château d'Amboise, across from
recommended L'Epicerie restaurant, tel. 02 47 57 23 69).
The Loire and Its Many Châteaux: A Historical Primer
It'shardtooverstatetheimportanceoftheLoireRivertoFrance.ItsplaceinFrench
history goes back to the very foundation of the country. As if to proclaim its storied
