Tours/Amboise: Private Chambord and Chenonceau Chateau Tour

Discover the Loire Valley’s Iconic Chateaus in a Private Day Tour

This private 9-hour tour from Amboise or Tours offers a personalized exploration of the Loire Valley’s most famous castles, Chenonceau and Chambord. Priced at $1,073 per group, it’s ideal for those seeking an intimate experience with expert guidance, all while enjoying wine tasting and local products. The tour is perfect for visitors who want depth over speed, with plenty of time to appreciate each site’s beauty and history.

The tour begins at 9:00 AM, with pickup from your accommodation. It’s designed for groups up to one person or couples who prefer a private, customized outing. While the full-day itinerary covers scenic drives, guided castle tours, wine tasting, and a hearty lunch, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included in the price, giving flexibility for personal preferences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private 9-hour experience exploring Chateau Chenonceau and Chateau Chambord
• Includes guided tours and entry tickets for both castles
• Wine tasting at Caves Ambacia with a cellar tour
• Local lunch with cheese, delicatessen, and fish at Bistrot L’Oppidum
• Pickup and drop-off from Amboise or Tours in a private vehicle
• Rated 5/5 based on 2 reviews, praised for knowledgeable guides and stunning views

From the Pickup to the First Castle: Scenic Drive and Overview

The tour kicks off at 9:00 AM, with a convenient pickup at your accommodation in either Amboise or Tours. After a brief journey of about 30 minutes, your first stop is the Chateau Chenonceau, one of the Loire Valley’s most celebrated castles. The drive itself offers views of the lush countryside, setting the tone for a day immersed in France’s classic landscape.

Once at Chenonceau, the guided tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours. Visitors explore its impressive interior, learn about its history dating back to the 11th century, and enjoy stories about the castle’s past residents. Its unique position spanning the River Cher creates an enchanting setting, perfect for photo stops and appreciating the architecture.

Touring Chateau Chenonceau’s Historic and Architectural Highlights

Chateau Chenonceau is renowned for its elegant design and artistic details. The guide provides insights into its architectural features, including the arched gallery that extends over the river. Its history involves notable figures, which the narration makes accessible and engaging throughout the visit.

Visitors find the interior rooms equally captivating, with period furnishings and artworks that evoke the castle’s storied past. The storytelling style of the guide makes it easy to understand the significance of each room and its role in French history, making the visit both educational and visually inspiring.

Wine Tasting and Local Lunch at Caves Ambacia in Amboise

After touring Chenonceau, the group heads back into Amboise for a cellar tour and wine tasting at Caves Ambacia. Here, visitors discover how the local wines, including Vouvray, Montlouis, and Bourgueil, are crafted. The wine tasting offers a chance to sample some of the region’s best offerings, accompanied by stories about the winemaking process.

Following the tasting, a lunch is served at Bistrot L’Oppidum, where guests get to try local products such as cheeses, delicatessen, and fish. The 1.5-hour lunch allows time to relax and enjoy authentic French cuisine in a cozy setting, though food and drinks are not included in the tour price, providing flexibility for individual preferences.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Chateau Chambord’s Architectural Grandeur

The journey continues with a one-hour drive to Chateau Chambord, one of France’s most recognizable castles. The guided tour of approximately 1.5 hours highlights its French Renaissance architecture, characterized by intricate rooflines, towers, and spacious interiors.

Visitors learn about the people who lived here and the castle’s design features, such as the famous double helix staircase. The exterior façade offers plenty of photo opportunities, with the castle’s massive scale and ornate details standing out against the landscape.

The Architecture and Stories of Chateau Chambord

Chateau Chambord impresses with its size and craftsmanship. The guide shares stories about the royal residents and the construction history that makes the castle an iconic symbol of France. The interior tour showcases the spacious halls, fireplaces, and artistic details that have made Chambord a favorite among visitors.

This site’s vast grounds and distinctive architecture appeal to those interested in history and design, making it a highlight of the tour. The storytelling adds depth, turning a sightseeing stop into a more engaging experience.

Practical Details: Logistics, Group Size, and What’s Included

This private tour features pickup and drop-off directly at your accommodation in Tours or Amboise. The vehicle is comfortable, and the entire journey lasts approximately 9 hours, providing plenty of time at each site without feeling rushed.

Price-wise, the $1,073 fee covers guided tours of both Chenonceau and Chambord, entry tickets, and the wine tasting at Caves Ambacia. However, lunch and food and drinks are not included in the package, giving flexibility to customize your meal choices.

Since the tour is for a private group, it offers a more personalized experience, with the chauffeur guide serving as an interpreter and storyteller. The tour operates in English, and cancellation is free if made up to 5 days in advance.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

The tour involves some walking at the castles, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Wheelchair users are not suitable for this tour, likely due to accessibility limitations at some sites. Travelers should also bring a face mask or protective covering for safety.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Options

This private Loire Valley experience is ideal for those seeking a full day of sightseeing with personalized attention. It includes guided tours, wine tasting, and a local lunch, making it a comprehensive option.

Similar experiences include skip-the-line tickets and small-group tours, but this private version ensures a more intimate atmosphere and flexible itinerary. The guide’s expertise and the careful selection of stops set this tour apart for those who value detailed storytelling and relaxed pacing.

Final Thoughts on the Private Château Tour

This 9-hour private tour from Amboise or Tours offers a chance to see two of France’s most famous castles with expert guidance, wine tasting, and local cuisine. The guided visits to Chenonceau and Chambord provide an enriching look into architecture and history, enhanced by a knowledgeable guide.

While food and drinks are not included, the lunch at Bistrot L’Oppidum and the wine tasting at Caves Ambacia allow for a taste of the region’s culinary heritage. The private format makes it an excellent choice for couples or small groups wanting a tailored experience.

This tour balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and personalized service, making it well-suited for visitors eager to explore the Loire Valley’s castle masterpieces comfortably and informatively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this Loire Valley castle tour?
The tour includes guided tours and entry tickets to Chenonceau and Chambord, as well as a wine tasting at Caves Ambacia. Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation are also included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours from pickup to return, with dedicated time at each castle and for wine tasting and lunch.

Are food and drinks included?
No, lunch and personal food and drinks are not included but are available at Bistrot L’Oppidum during the stop in Amboise.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users due to accessibility limitations at the sites.

What is the price for this tour?
The cost is $1,073 per group, covering all guided tours, entry tickets, and the wine tasting experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refund is available if canceled up to 5 days in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and a face mask or protective covering for safety during visits.

Is this tour available in languages other than English?
No, the tour is conducted in English.

How many people can join this tour?
It is designed for a private group, accommodating up to one person or a small family for a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby