Attractions & Map

Situated within easy reach of airports, roads and railways, Hotel de l'Univers is in the centre of the historic town of Tours. A thriving and dynamic university city with many parks, abundant history and plentiful leisure pursuits, there is a vast array of tourist destinations in this beautiful region, known as 'The Garden of France'.

The Vinci International Convention Centre is close by and there is a wealth of choice for fine food, art galleries, museums and shopping. Chateaux and vineyards surround Tours in every direction and the river Loire runs right through the city itself, a stroll away from the hotel.
Do not miss a visit to the old medieval town closeby as well as the Saint Martin Basilica and Craft Guild Museum.

The Royal Castle of Amboise
website

Built in the 15th and 16th centuries, this truly royal castle introduced Italian style and taste into the Loire Valley. It is steeped in History and the outstanding collection of Gothic and Renaissance furniture makes it a wonderfully convivial illustration of life in days gone by.

After touring the royal apartments, take a stroll in the beautiful gardens filled with Mediterranean trees and enjoy the panoramic views. In St. Hubert's Chapel is the grave of Leonardo da Vinci which has recently been the subject of elegant restoration.

The castle is now a reminder of times past and royal prestige.

Villandry Castle & Gardens
website

Constructed in the 1500s on the site of the original 14th Century keep where King Philip II of France met Richard I of England (Richard the Lionheart) to discuss peace. The Renaissance Gardens laid out in formal patterns with low box hedges are considered by many to be the most beautiful anywhere in the world. Including water gardens, ornamental flower gardens and vegetable gardens, the Chateau is a World Heritage Site.

Vineyards
website

For wine enthusiasts and novices alike, a trip to the vineyards of this famous region is a must. For white visit Vouvray and Montlouis and for reds visit Chinon and Bourgueil.

Cathedral St. Gatien
website

The Cathedral of Tours is dedicated to Saint Gatien, its first canonized Bishop. Just minutes away from the hotel this is a marvel of architecture, history and beauty. Work began on the cathedral in 1170, yet it wasn't completed until 1547 giving the building the unusual feature of being able to trace the architectural styles through the years as you work up its façade. Nearby is a famous Cedar tree that Napoleon himself planted.

Chinon
website

A picturesque and historical town located in the Vienne river valley, it is dominated by the huge castle which sits high on a plateau, overlooking the river. As a place of importance since ancient historic times, the natural mount has been the site of a hermitage and a monastery as well as the present castle. The clock tower at Chinon is also well worth a visit – inside it is a museum dedicated to Joan of Arc.