A deeply incised valley, numerous ponds and extensive woodland give Ambillou a distinctive natural setting. The area is also shaped by the building history of Église Saint-Martin and traditions of forestry and former agricultural buildings. Water, forest and rural heritage sit side by side here; these different themes offer a concrete starting point for deciding what interests you most about Ambillou.
Water, Valley and Forest
The Braineau stream crosses Ambillou, flowing through a deeply incised valley. The area has numerous ponds, including Braineau, Radoire and Givry. Across the north-west of Touraine, Ambillou has the highest proportion of woodland after the Massif des Essarts. The Bois d’Ambillou also extends into Cléré-les-Pins and is rich in red deer and roe deer.
The Building History of Église Saint-Martin
The original foundation of Église Saint-Martin in Ambillou dates back to the 11th century. In the 15th century, the church acquired a transept and a choir ending in a flat apse wall. The nave was built in 1881. Inside are a round stone baptismal font dating from the 12th century and a wooden altarpiece for the high altar from the 17th century.
The church’s foundation, structural elements and furnishings therefore belong to different periods. Those interested in architectural history can trace these differences through specific features: from the baptismal font to the transept and choir, and on to the later nave and the altarpiece.
Former Forestry and Rural Heritage
The Loges de bruyère were agricultural buildings used in the last century. Historical activities carried out by forest workers in Ambillou included charcoal making, clog making and processing wood into barrel staves. Cutting heather was another such activity: it was used to thatch the roofs of the Loges de bruyère. The buildings are also called Ballets or Lorgeaux.
Here, former work and building methods are intertwined: wood was used in various crafts, while heather served as roofing material. The history of the buildings thus links architectural traditions with the activities involved in working in the forests at the time.
Waterways and Activities
Night-time carp fishing at the largest body of water in Ambillou is only possible with a prior reservation. If you plan this activity, check the reservation arrangements in advance. The Aire de stationnement de la petite chaussée is a motorhome parking area in Ambillou. There are picnic tables and a children’s play area by the lake.
The organizer describes the Fête du Plan d’eau as a traditional annual festival; the program may vary from year to year. If you plan your stay around it, check the date and the program for that year in advance.
At Les Ecuries d'Ambillou, horse-riding activities range from beginner lessons to competitions, and equestrian facilities are also available. The offerings also include lessons and activities for individuals and groups with motor, sensory or intellectual disabilities. Programs and participation requirements may change. If you are making specific plans, check which activities are currently available.
Discover more destinations: Perrusson, Vallères, Chaveignes, Chinon, Trogues, Chenonceaux, Bléré, Betz-Le-Château
For the main travel overview: Indre-Et-Loire.
