The name of Château de Pray is derived from the first lord of the castle Geoffroy de Pray, and the property dates back to 1244. Since then, the 13th-century chateau has served as a fixture of Amboise, gaining neighbors such as Château Gaillard and Château du Clos Lucé during the Renaissance years. It was also during this era that the chateau had been remodeled and updated with its twin towers. In the 20th century, the property would be recognized as one of France's earliest castle hotel and restaurant establishments. The current owners, siblings Cécile and Nathalie Cariou have made it their mission to preserve the authenticity of the castle and estate, ensuring future generations of guests fall in love with it just as they did.

Design and Architecture

With much of its original exterior features intact, Château de Pray is one of the finer examples of France's heritage hotels. The 13th-century facade does not feel amiss when viewed with the rest of Amboise's medieval aesthetics. In some areas, the hotel has even integrated traditional features that make the ambiance much more engaging. The Grand Salon, for example, is a dining and gathering hall decorated with portraits of esteemed figures, candle chandeliers, and the coats of arms of France's noble families. The accommodations are also individually themed, some with more modern touches, others immersive because of their antique 18th-century furnishings and fixtures.

Boasting a cool and quirky troglodyte aesthetic made of tufa limestone, L'Orangerie features the warmth and flavors of a homey yet wonderful gourmet restaurant. Chef Arnaud Philippon's techniques and inventiveness are certain to impress diners, proving why the restaurant is deserving of its Michelin Star. Aside from the menu, the restaurant also prepares special seasonal platters available from May until October, and also again for the Christmas holidays.

Opening hours: Thursday - Saturday: 12 pm - 1:30 pm (Lunch), 7 pm - 9 pm (Dinner); Wednesday: 7 pm - 9 pm; Sunday: 12 pm - 1:30 pm

Breakfast service: 8 am - 10:30 am

Reservations: Restaurant reservations can be made through the hotel's official website.

Couples holding their wedding in France can host a warm and wonderful reception at Château De Pray. The venues can be privatized and customized with the help of the hotel's management. The food will also be a topic of discussion among guests, as it can be catered by the on-site Michelin-starred restaurant.

L'Orangerie: Dining hall with stylish cave aesthetics carved out of tufa limestone
Capacity: 80 guests

Grand Salon: Hall featuring period-style decor, including coats of arms and candle chandeliers
Capacity: 35 guests

Le Petit Salon: Cozy private dining room with stained glass windows and a Prussian fireplace
Capacity: 20 guests

Cultural Experiences

Since Amboise is such a postcard-perfect town, the first thing visitors should do is visit the many scenic spots near the hotel. First is Maréchal Leclerc Bridge, which connects Amboise's two riverbanks and Île d'Or. Next should be Château Royal d'Amboise, the magnificent castle that stands tall above the commune. Two other chateaus worth your attention are Château Gaillard and Château du Clos Lucé, two projects by King Charles VIII of France. The former features beautiful Italian gardens while the latter has a museum dedicated to Leonardo Da Vinci. If you're an art lover, don't forget to explore the hotel's temporary art galleries!

Other Celebrations

Château De Pray is a great venue for all sorts of celebrations, big and small. Guests who need a spacious venue can reserve the gardens or the restaurants. Those looking to enjoy a private affair can make a quote and then a reservation via their website.