Forêt d'Amboise
A historic royal hunting ground near Amboise, offering serene trails, ancient trees, and the unique Pagode de Chanteloup.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Forêt d'Amboise
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic royal hunting ground near Amboise, offering serene trails, ancient trees, and the unique Pagode de Chanteloup.
"Step into a royal past amidst serene woodlands and discover the magic of the Forêt d'Amboise."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven and muddy. Good walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring the forest comfortably.
🚲 Bike the Royal Path
Rent a bike in Amboise to cycle through the forest and along the Loire. It's a fantastic way to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Royal Hunting Grounds
Throughout the forest
Imagine French royalty hunting deer and boar in these ancient woods. The forest's history is deeply intertwined with the royal families of France.
Pagode de Chanteloup
Edge of the forest
A unique 18th-century architectural folly offering stunning views and a glimpse into aristocratic leisure.
Leonardo da Vinci's Legacy
Near Amboise town
While not directly in the forest, the proximity to Clos Lucé, where da Vinci lived, adds a layer of historical significance to the area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Plan Your Visit Around Amboise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven and muddy. Good walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring the forest comfortably.
🚲 Bike the Royal Path
Rent a bike in Amboise to cycle through the forest and along the Loire. It's a fantastic way to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery.
🍄 Forage for Mushrooms
In autumn, the forest is known for its edible mushrooms like coulemelles. Always be sure of your identification before consuming.
🦌 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk. You might even hear the stag's rutting call in autumn.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven and muddy. Good walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring the forest comfortably.
🚲 Bike the Royal Path
Rent a bike in Amboise to cycle through the forest and along the Loire. It's a fantastic way to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery.
🍄 Forage for Mushrooms
In autumn, the forest is known for its edible mushrooms like coulemelles. Always be sure of your identification before consuming.
🦌 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk. You might even hear the stag's rutting call in autumn.
🏰 Combine with Amboise Castle
The forest is a perfect complement to a visit to the Château d'Amboise. Plan your day to include both for a full experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Forêt d'Amboise for its natural beauty and historical significance, offering a peaceful escape. The forest is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with many enjoying the proximity to Amboise town and its château. Some note that facilities are minimal, and trails can be muddy after rain.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Forêt d'Amboise is easily accessible from the town of Amboise. You can drive and park at designated areas within or on the edge of the forest, or cycle from Amboise town. Many visitors combine a forest visit with exploring Amboise itself.
Yes, it's a popular day trip! You can take a train from Paris to Amboise and then explore the forest. Renting a car for the day from Paris offers more flexibility to visit the forest and châteaux at your own pace.
There are several parking areas around the perimeter of the Forêt d'Amboise, especially near popular trailheads and attractions like the Pagode de Chanteloup. Check local signage for designated spots.
While direct public transport into the heart of the forest is limited, you can reach Amboise town by train from major cities. From Amboise, you can then walk, cycle, or take a local taxi to forest access points.
Access for larger vehicles might be restricted on some smaller forest roads. It's best to use designated parking areas on the outskirts of the forest or in Amboise town if you are traveling with an RV.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Forêt d'Amboise is a public forest and generally free to enter for recreational purposes like walking and cycling.
While the forest itself is free, attractions located within or on its edge, such as the Pagode de Chanteloup, may have admission fees. It's advisable to check their individual websites for current pricing.
As a natural forest, there are no strict opening or closing hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There are multiple access points to the Forêt d'Amboise. You can enter from various trails and roads surrounding the town of Amboise and its neighboring villages.
Guided tours focusing on the forest's flora, fauna, or history might be available through local tourism offices or private guides. Inquire locally for options.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, cycling, birdwatching, mushroom foraging (in season), and simply soaking in the natural beauty. It's also a popular spot for dog walking.
Yes, there are marked trails for hiking and cycling, ranging in difficulty and length. Look for signage indicating different routes and points of interest.
Yes, many trails are relatively flat and easy, making them suitable for families. Stick to well-marked paths and supervise children closely.
Facilities are minimal, as it's a natural forest. You'll find some picnic areas and benches, but no restrooms or cafes within the woods themselves. Plan accordingly.
The forest is generally safe, especially on well-trafficked trails. However, it's always wise to inform someone of your plans, carry a phone, and be aware of your surroundings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly within the forest. You'll need to dine in Amboise town or pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature.
Amboise town offers a variety of restaurants, brasseries, and cafes. You can find everything from traditional French cuisine to more casual dining options.
Absolutely! The forest is a wonderful place for a picnic. There are designated picnic spots, or you can find a quiet clearing to enjoy your meal.
When in the region, try local Loire Valley wines and regional cheeses like Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine. You might also find dishes featuring local mushrooms.
The Château d'Amboise itself may have a cafe or restaurant, offering a convenient option for visitors combining their castle tour with a meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for sun-dappled forest paths, ancient trees, scenic viewpoints, and the unique Pagode de Chanteloup. The changing seasons offer different photographic opportunities.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light, with golden hour creating a magical atmosphere. Midday sun can be harsh, but the dense canopy provides shade.
Consider capturing the wildlife (deer, birds), the textures of the trees, the Pagode de Chanteloup, and the winding forest trails. Autumn colors are particularly vibrant.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the Pagode, and a telephoto lens is great for wildlife.
Drone regulations can be strict in France, especially near historical sites and natural parks. Always check current drone laws and obtain necessary permissions before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting bikes in Amboise for a fun cycling adventure through the woods. It's a great way to explore more of the forest and keep kids entertained. The Pagode de Chanteloup also offers an element of wonder with its unique architecture and views, which can spark children's imaginations.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Hikers
Hikers will find a network of marked trails catering to various fitness levels. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer trek, the forest provides a beautiful natural setting. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some paths can be uneven or muddy.
🌳 Nature Lovers and Photographers
Photographers will find plenty of inspiration, from sun-dappled forest scenes and ancient trees to the striking Pagode de Chanteloup. The early morning and late afternoon light can create magical photographic moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Connection
Beyond hunting, the forest was also a place of leisure and strategic importance for the royal families who resided in the nearby Château d'Amboise. The proximity to the château made it an accessible escape for royalty seeking respite from courtly life. The forest's beauty and tranquility provided inspiration and a backdrop for royal activities, further cementing its significance in French history.
Today, visitors can still feel this historical resonance as they walk or cycle through the woods. The sense of stepping back in time, to an era of kings, queens, and noble pursuits, adds a unique dimension to the experience of exploring the Forêt d'Amboise. It's a living testament to France's royal past, waiting to be discovered.
Exploring the Pagode de Chanteloup
The Pagode is a multi-tiered structure inspired by Chinese pagodas, set within a beautiful park. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding forest and countryside. The site offers a fascinating contrast to the more traditional French châteaux of the Loire Valley, showcasing a different facet of aristocratic taste and architectural ambition.
Visiting the Pagode de Chanteloup provides a delightful detour during a forest excursion. It’s a chance to appreciate a unique piece of history and enjoy breathtaking vistas, all within the serene natural setting of the Forêt d'Amboise. It’s a hidden gem that adds an element of surprise and wonder to any visit.
Nature and Wildlife
This natural haven is home to a variety of wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot numerous species, while the forest is also known for its populations of deer and other mammals. In the autumn, the forest comes alive with the sound of stag rutting, a truly captivating natural spectacle.
For those interested in foraging, the forest is renowned for its edible mushrooms, particularly the coulemelle, which can be found in the autumn months. However, it's crucial to have expert knowledge before attempting to forage, as misidentification can be dangerous.
The forest offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, whether you're hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying a quiet moment amidst the trees. It's a reminder of the natural beauty that complements the historical grandeur of the Loire Valley.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit