MANOIR SAINT THOMAS

Former priory set in gardens in the heart of Amboise.

THIS FORMER PRIORY dating from the 12th century still has its historic fairytale exterior - complete with stone turret - and the owners are rightfully proud of its ancient heritage. Originally founded in the 12th century by the Lord of Amboise, Manoir Saint Thomas also has a great location in the town centre – minutes from the famous castle and the Loire river – while retaining a country-house feel thanks to its sweeping lawns and gorgeous garden pool.

Ultra-comfortable, parquet-floored bedrooms are overlaid with the architectural relics of its past. You’ll see ornate period fireplaces, heavy-beamed ceilings, tall windows, beautifully carved woodwork, stained glass windows and a grand staircase. Elegant bathrooms have period style bronze fittings, clawfoot baths, robes and jasmine scented gels.

Downstairs you’ll find a breakfast room and library, though it’s the alluring gardens at Manoir Saint Thomas that guests cherish most. Find a spot in the shade of the century-old lime trees, have a dip in the pool or admire the contemplative, 200-year-old statue on the lawn. You can picnic here on sunny days or simply grab a sun lounger to soak up the rays.

Da Vinci connections

Manor Saint Thomas has a great location for visiting both Château d’Amboise and the house where Leonardo da Vinci lived in his later years. Amboise has plenty of places to dine out and staff will be pleased to make recommendations.


Le Manoir Saint Thomas was reviewed by Room for Romance

More images of Manoir Saint Thomas coming soon!

Dining in
Only breakfast is served.

Dining out
The outstanding Restaurant L’Alliance is only two streets away and serves great local fare in chic surroundings, under the direction of chef Ludovic Meunier. Restaurant L’Epicerie, situated directly in front of the castle, offers tasty regional dishes and brilliant views amid atmospheric stone walls.

See & Do
You're minutes away from the vast medieval fortress of Château d'Angers, with its kilometre-long walls and 17 towers. Another spectacular castle is the Château d'Amboise, so walk around and treat yourselves to a massive cultural intake. Amboise was also the final home of Leonardo da Vinci, so be sure to visit Clos Lucé, the manor house where he spent his last three years. Take a boat ride along the Loire river or rent some bicycles and explore the region's back roads and villages.

Shop
Be sure to call into La Chocolaterie Bigot in front of the Château d'Amboise for some wicked chocolate treats.

After dark
Sip cocktails at Le Shaker – a bar on L'ile d'Or, the island in front of Château d'Amboise – and watch the castle by moonlight. You can also get tickets to the sound and light show – see below.

Dates
Summer months
Don't miss the spectacular Son et Lumière held every Wednesday and Saturday night at the Château d'Amboise.

GETTING THERE

Location
Mail Saint Thomas, 37400 Amboise

Parking
There is free guest parking

Trains
Amboise – 2km

Taxis
EUR 10 from the station

Airport
Tours – 25km

ESSENTIAL INFO

Rates guide
EUR 140 - 340

Open/closed
Closed during Christmas and throughout January 2009 and November 12 to December 15 2009

Check-in
4pm

Check-out
12 noon

Minimum night stay?
No

Breakfast
Continental breakfast is served until 11am

Room service
Breakfast only

Children
No restrictions

Pets
Dogs are welcome at an extra €7

Air conditioning
Yes

Languages
French, English, Spanish and Italian

Wedding license?
No

Your contact
Antonella Pautout– owner