Family-Friendly Adventures in Amboise, France!

Château Royal d"Amboise

Why Visit?

Embark on a historical adventure with your family at the Château Royal d"Amboise, a jewel of the French Renaissance nestled in the heart of the picturesque Loire Valley. This enchanting castle offers a glimpse into the lives of French royalty and is an engaging destination for visitors of all ages.

### Preparing for Your Visit

- Getting There: Château Royal d"Amboise is accessible from Paris by train (approximately 2 hours to Amboise station) followed by a short walk or taxi ride. If you"re driving, it"s about a 2-hour drive from Paris.

- Tickets: Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long lines, especially during peak tourist season. Check for family discounts or group rates.

### A Day at Château Royal d"Amboise

- Morning: Start your tour early to enjoy the castle in the quieter morning hours. Begin with a guided tour that highlights the history of the castle, which served as a residence for French kings from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Don’t miss the impressive gothic Saint-Hubert Chapel, resting place of Leonardo da Vinci, which is adorned with intricate carvings.

- Afternoon: After a picnic lunch in the beautiful gardens overlooking the Loire River, explore the castle"s expansive grounds. Participate in a medieval fencing workshop or a Renaissance dance class, both fun and educational for kids.

- Interactive Exhibits: Engage with the history through the interactive displays designed for younger visitors. These features explain the architectural evolution of the castle and the daily life during its peak.

- Special Events: Check the castle’s calendar for events such as costume parades, night-time illuminations, or the Falconry Show where birds of prey soar against the backdrop of this historic fortress.

### Fun Fact

Did you know that Château d"Amboise was a favorite residence of King François I, who hosted numerous Italian artists including Leonardo da Vinci? The castle reflects the Italianate influence in its design, blending French medieval forms with classical Renaissance structures.

Make Château Royal d"Amboise a highlight of your family trip to France, ensuring an educational and entertaining experience for everyone!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Château du Clos Lucé

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Château du Clos Lucé

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure to Château du Clos Lucé by driving to Amboise or taking a train from Paris Montparnasse to Amboise, roughly a two-hour journey. From Amboise station, the Château is a scenic 20-minute walk across the quaint town, allowing you to soak in the charming French streetscape.

Exploring Château du Clos Lucé

Arrive at Château du Clos Lucé around 10 AM. This is not just any castle; it"s where Leonardo da Vinci spent the last three years of his life, invited by King François I. Purchase your tickets at the entrance or book online in advance to skip the lines.

Interactive Leonardo da Vinci Museum

Head inside to explore the museum dedicated to Leonardo’s inventions. The museum is incredibly family-friendly, offering hands-on exhibits that bring to life over 40 of Leonardo’s inventions. Your kids can interact with models of his most famous inventions like the flying machine and the automobile.

Stroll Through the Park

By midday, take a leisurely stroll in the park of Château du Clos Lucé. The park is an extension of Leonardo’s workshop into nature, featuring full-scale machines and audio points explaining da Vinci’s vision of the world. It’s both educational and engaging for all ages.

Picnic Time

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the gardens. There are designated picnic spots where you can relax and enjoy the serene landscape, making it a perfect break for the family.

Leonardo’s Garden Tour

Post-lunch, explore Leonardo’s Garden, a beautiful landscape that brings his drawings of nature to life. It"s a great way for children to learn about flora and how it inspired one of history"s greatest minds.

Departure

Conclude your visit by 3 PM to avoid the late afternoon crowds, heading back through Amboise, perhaps stopping at a local café for refreshments before your journey back.

This family-friendly itinerary not only immerses you in history but does so in an interactive, engaging way that"s sure to capture the imagination of both kids and adults alike. Enjoy your trip through time at Château du Clos Lucé!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Château de Chenonceau

Why Visit?

Embark on a magical family day out at the Château de Chenonceau, a stunning masterpiece of the French Renaissance that spans the River Cher. Known as the "Ladies" Château" for its history of influential female owners, this picturesque château is sure to enchant adults and children alike.

Getting There

Château de Chenonceau is accessible by car or train. Located in the Loire Valley, it"s about two hours from Paris. If driving, take the A85 and exit at Bléré or Amboise. For a scenic train journey, take the TER from Paris Austerlitz to Chenonceaux station, just a 5-minute walk from the chateau.

Morning Visit

Begin your tour by exploring the château’s richly decorated rooms. Don"t miss the grand gallery that stretches over the river, offering breathtaking views and a fascinating history of grand balls and receptions. Children will enjoy the 16th-century tapestries and intricate wood carvings, imagining the château bustling with historical figures.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic in the Green Garden, designed by Diane de Poitiers, a prominent figure in French history, and an excellent spot for children to play and explore.

Afternoon Stroll

Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll in the Diane de Poitiers Garden and the Catherine de Medici Garden, where you can teach the kids about the rivalry between these two powerful women who shaped the château’s history. Don’t miss the maze and the 16th-century farm, perfect for little explorers.

Fun Facts

- The château has a unique bridge gallery built to host parties during the First World War.

- It served as a hospital ward during World War I.

End your visit by stopping at the gift shop, where you can pick up educational toys and books about the château’s history, making your family trip both fun and informative.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Beauval Zoo (ZooParc de Beauval)

Why Visit?

Family Adventure Itinerary at ZooParc de Beauval

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by arriving at ZooParc de Beauval when the gates open at 9 AM. The zoo is located in Saint-Aignan, France, and is accessible by car or regional buses from nearby cities. Parking is plentiful and family-friendly amenities like stroller rentals are available at the entrance.

Morning Session

Begin your exploration in the "Land of the Pandas" where you"ll meet Yuan Zi and Huan Huan, Beauval’s beloved giant pandas. This area mimics the pandas" natural habitat and is one of the few places in Europe where you can see these enchanting creatures. Don’t miss the chance to see the baby panda, making this visit even more special!

Lunch Break

Around noon, head to the nearby restaurant "Les Délices de Beauval" for a family-friendly meal with views of the animal habitats. Enjoy a variety of meal options catering to all age groups.

Afternoon Exploration

Post lunch, make your way to the Hippopotamus Reserve where you can view these majestic animals underwater through giant glass panels - a rare sight! Next, visit the "African Savannah" habitat, home to giraffes, zebras, and a pride of lions. The expansive viewing areas make it easy for even the little ones to spot these magnificent animals.

Evening Wrap-Up

Conclude your visit with the incredible bird show "Les Maîtres des Airs." Featuring over 200 birds from around the world, this show is a spectacular display of nature’s beauty and prowess. Check the show times earlier in the day to plan accordingly.

Departure

As the day winds down, exit through the gift shop where you can grab souvenirs to remember your eventful day at ZooParc de Beauval. The zoo typically closes at 6 PM, giving you a full day immersed in the wonders of wildlife.

Quick Tips

- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the zoo spans over 40 hectares.

- Check the zoo’s website for feeding times and special events to enhance your visit.

Enjoy your magical day at ZooParc de Beauval, where wildlife conservation meets family fun!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Rivau Castle (Chateau du Rivau)

Why Visit?

Embark on a magical family adventure at Château du Rivau, a fairy-tale castle nestled in the heart of France"s Loire Valley. Just a 10-minute drive from the town of Chinon, this enchanting castle and its gardens are easily accessible via car or a short taxi ride, making it the perfect stop for a day trip filled with exploration and wonder.

Morning Arrival: Touring Rivau Castle

Start your day early by arriving at Château du Rivau around 10 AM when the doors open. As you step into the castle, you"ll be transported into a world of medieval architecture and captivating histories. The castle is renowned for its impressive collection of contemporary art, which blends seamlessly with ancient stonework, creating an engaging experience for both kids and adults. Learn about the castle"s connection to Joan of Arc and how it played a pivotal role during the Hundred Years" War.

Midday: Exploring the Fairy-Tale Gardens

By noon, venture outside to the enchanting gardens. The Château du Rivau is famous for its 14 thematic gardens, including the Alice in Wonderland-inspired "Garden of Gargantua" and the whimsical "Enchanted Forest." These gardens are not only a visual delight but also offer an interactive experience with sculptures and installations that ignite the imagination. The gardens are perfect for a family picnic, so consider packing a lunch to enjoy amidst the blooms.

Afternoon Activities: Workshops and Horse Stables

In the afternoon, participate in the family-friendly workshops offered by the castle (check the schedule in advance). These workshops range from potion-making to medieval calligraphy. Also, don"t miss the historic stables, which house a collection of royal carriages.

Departure

Wrap up your visit by 4 PM, allowing your family to reflect on the day"s adventures as you drive back to Chinon, carrying memories of a day spent in a storybook setting.

Château du Rivau not only offers a glimpse into France"s rich history but also provides a unique blend of art, nature, and interactive fun, ensuring a memorable day for the entire family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.