Château des Arpentis

The château grounds and gardens are beautifully cared for, with a landscape that feels almost cinematic. I found breakfast impeccable, simple but chic and refined, despite what some reviews say. A kind gentleman welcomed us, I think his name was Laurent, and the young man at breakfast made me a delicious hot chocolate. The staff are discreet and let you settle in as if you were at home, without interruptions or anything feeling commercial. On a sunny day I was lucky enough to enjoy the pool. Reaching it by walking through the wine cellar made it feel like a charming tour of the château. My room had lovely linens and a wonderful bathtub, one of the best I've enjoyed. That evening I had wine by the fireplace in the beautiful room with music, games and books. Peggy Lee's “Fever” was already on the stereo, which felt like fate and made the night even more memorable. I felt like a queen of the castle. C’est la magie du château.

We had such a treat staying at this special chateau. There are lots of interesting little nooks to explore, and the bed was comfortable. It's just outside town, so the location felt convenient while still being secluded. Loved the place, highly recommend.

The château and grounds are beautiful, and the location is perfect. Still, we were very disappointed. We love château stays and chose higher-priced hotels on our Loire cycling trip, expecting good quality and comfort after long days on the bike. For the price of a proper hotel, this felt like a very average B&B, well below what we expect in this category. The shower was behind a curtain on the bathroom floor, and the room looked like a hospital. Furniture seemed simply old and stained rather than vintage or antique, the carpet looked as if it hadn't been cleaned in years, and the faded, overused bedding would have embarrassed even my grandmother. Breakfast cost an extra €16 for a continental spread that felt like an insulin coma. Guests still have to function until lunch, so at least eggs should be included as a basic standard. We stayed at many wonderful châteaux along the Loire in the same price range and had outstanding experiences there. I'd strongly recommend choosing somewhere else. Management should look at competitors and improve, or accept that this belongs in a different category, as a simple Bed & Breakfast under €150.

The rooms are spacious and really comfortable, and the château grounds are incredible. There are three very friendly horses you can visit, and the pool is beautiful and heated during the summer months. Breakfast is just croissants and coffee, but there's a fridge and kitchen at the hotel, so you can get groceries for your stay. Amboise town is a six-minute drive away. You'll probably want to spend most of your time enjoying the chateau, though.