We will be spending 2 nights in the Loire Valley, preferably in Amboise, per Rick Steves. I haven't seen any info on tours to the chauteaux from Amboise - are there any?? I know there are many that go from Tours, but we don't want to stay there. We'd prefer not to rent a car, but it sounds like that might be the best way to go at this point. Has anyone taken a chauteau tour out of Amboise? Thanks!
You can try these two websites, they might have what you're looking for: http://www.loire-valley-tours.com/ http://www.accodispo-tours.com/english/index-excursions.html
The hotel you're staying at may have recommendations. I would email them. I do think renting a car for the day is the best way to go though. It is very easy to drive in that area, it would probably be less expensive than a tour for 2 or more and you can spend as long as you want at each stop. We've done it many times.. super easy.. super fun.
Thanks, Nancy (my fellow Oregonian:). The 2nd website was especially helpful - they do many tours out of Amboise - thanks! Susan - thanks so much, good to hear from an experienced traveler! Nice to know that renting a car and driving to the chauteaux isn't difficult. I do love the flexibility it would give us. We're spending 2 nights in Amboise - would you recommend 3? We won't be wine-tasting, just there for the castles.