Manoir Saint Thomas

THIS FORMER PRIORY dating from the 12th century still has its fairytale exterior, complete with stone turret. The owners of Manoir Saint Thomas are rightfully proud of its ancient heritage.

Originally founded in the 12th century by the Lord of Amboise, Manoir Saint Thomas 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 garden pool.

Comfortable, parquet-floored bedrooms are overlaid with the architectural relics of its past. You’ll see ornate period fireplaces, heavy-beamed ceilings, tall windows, carved woodwork, stained glass windows and a grand staircase. Elegant (and contemporary) bathrooms have 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 love 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.

© Room for Romance