About our troglodyte guesthouse in Amboise

We fell in love with this former wine press carved into the rock, a true witness to Amboise’s winemaking history. With the help of troglodyte specialists, we fully restored it with the utmost care and respect for traditional craftsmanship, preserving its authenticity while offering modern comfort.

Every stone and every vaulted ceiling has been highlighted with passion. We personally designed and decorated the space to create a warm and unique cocoon. We’ll be delighted to welcome you in person, share our favorite local spots, and help you discover the very best of the Touraine region.

A former wine press

Ruelle Sautard is a unique and discreet little street, deeply rooted in the spiritual and artisanal history of Amboise. As early as the 16th century, the site bordered a convent, first of the Prémontré order, then of the Visitation nuns, who were reportedly authorized to hold a small market there. At the time, the word ruelle did not yet refer to a lane lined with houses, but to a crowd gathered for trade, a “rush” in the old French sense.

Later, the caves along the ruelle were occupied by cenobitic monks, who carved out troglodyte cells for prayer and retreat. The name “Sautard” is believed to refer to these monastic dwellings hewn into the rock.

In the 20th century, the site took on a more secular use: for over 45 years, the caves served as a wine press and cellar, in keeping with the great winemaking tradition of the Loire Valley.

Today, this discreet and charming street continues to carry the memory of past centuries, spiritual, commercial, and artisanal.

Carefully redesigned, this place still bears the soul of its former lives, where spirituality, craftsmanship, and the Loire’s savoir-faire come together.

Modern technology for your comfort

This troglodyte wine press has not only been lovingly restored, it has also been completely redesigned to offer you the highest level of comfort in every season. Unlike many troglodyte homes that tend to be damp, this one is equipped with a high-performance dehumidification and double-flow ventilation system, ensuring a healthy, temperate, and pleasant atmosphere year-round.

The humidity level remains stable and never exceeds 60%, which is within the ideal range for traditional housing (40–60%). A rare achievement for this type of accommodation, guaranteeing perfect thermal and respiratory comfort, whether in the peak of summer or the heart of winter.