Le Choiseul is a hotel in Amboise, the small royal town on the Loire that is one of the most popular bases for visiting the châteaux. It is a good choice for travellers who want a more characterful stay than a chain hotel in Tours, without the isolation of a countryside château-hotel. Amboise is compact and walkable, with the royal château above the river, Clos Lucé a few minutes away on foot and a good choice of restaurants and bakeries in the lanes below. Staying here means you can step out in the morning and be at the first of the day's sights within minutes, and return in the evening to a quiet town.
Location and getting around
Amboise has a railway station with regular regional trains to Tours, Blois and Chenonceaux, which makes it a practical base for visiting the châteaux without a car. Chenonceau is a short ride away, Chaumont-sur-Loire and Blois are within easy reach, and Chambord and Cheverny are reachable by car or tour.
The Loire à Vélo cycle route runs through the town, so cyclists can ride out directly from the door. Check the exact position of the hotel relative to the station and the château when you book, as the town centre is small and distances are short.
Rooms and facilities
Expect a comfortable, traditional style of room, with variation in size and outlook between categories. Ask for a room with a view of the garden or the river if one is available, and check whether breakfast is included for your rate. Amenities such as a restaurant, garden, parking and a pool vary by season and room type, so confirm what is available for your dates.
In the warmer months, a terrace or garden is a pleasant place to unwind after a day of walking, and in winter the town is quiet and cosy.
Who it suits and what to know: choose Le Choiseul if you want a base in Amboise itself, with the royal château and Clos Lucé nearby and the option of dinner in town. It suits couples, small groups and friends travelling by train or car. Book early for summer weekends and for the Christmas season, when Amboise is popular, and check parking arrangements if you are driving, since the old town has limited space.
A stay of two or three nights lets you see Amboise, Chenonceau and one more château without rushing, and the evenings are well spent walking the river quay, choosing a table in one of the small restaurants and watching the lights come on beneath the château walls. Ask the hotel about luggage storage if your train times do not match check-in or check-out.
Why stay here
- ✓Central Amboise location
- ✓Walk to the royal château
- ✓Close to Clos Lucé
- ✓Train station in town
- ✓Loire à Vélo route nearby
- ✓Base for Chenonceau and Chaumont
- ✓Restaurants in the old town
- ✓Check parking when booking
Good questions
Is the hotel central?+
Yes, it is in the centre of Amboise, within walking distance of the royal château, Clos Lucé and the river.
Can I visit the châteaux without a car?+
Yes, Amboise has a railway station with regional trains to Tours, Blois and Chenonceaux, and tours run to the main châteaux.
Is breakfast included?+
It varies by rate, so check the details when you book and compare with local bakeries and cafés.
