Exploring the medieval town of Saint-Émilion from Bordeaux is a must-do for wine enthusiasts. This half-day tour offers an immersive experience, guiding visitors through a renowned local winery for a tasting of exquisite wines. Beyond the cellar, the charming cobblestone streets and historic landmarks of Saint-Émilion invite travelers to uncover its captivating past. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply seeking an enriching day trip, this tour promises an unforgettable taste of Bordeaux’s renowned terroir.
Good To Know
- A 4.5 to 5-hour small-group tour that explores the medieval town of Saint-Émilion near Bordeaux, including a guided winery tour and wine tastings.
- Includes transportation in a 9-seater van, with pick-up from the Cité du Vin or via van transfer.
- Offers a guided winery tour, tasting of at least three wines, and an exploration of the medieval town of Saint-Émilion.
- Provides an optional visit to a second winery in Pomerol with additional wine tastings.
- Recommends comfortable shoes and clothing, and advises having breakfast before the wine tasting for a seamless and enjoyable tour experience.
Tour Overview
The Saint-Émilion Half-Day Tour is a popular excursion that allows visitors to discover the captivating medieval town of Saint-Émilion, located just outside of Bordeaux.
This 4.5 to 5-hour small-group tour departs from the Cité du Vin or via van transfer. Highlights include a guided winery tour, wine tastings of at least 3 wines, a visit to a second winery in Pomerol, and an exploration of Saint-Émilion’s historic streets and landmarks.
Transportation is provided in a 9-seater van, and a tasting of local macarons is included. The tour is led by a live guide fluent in French and English, and is limited to 8 participants.
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Itinerary Highlights
Starting locations for the tour include the Cité du Vin (134 Quai de Bacalan) or via van transfer.
The excursion features a guided tour of a winery, where guests enjoy a tasting of at least three wines.
Guests embark on a guided winery tour, sampling at least three distinct wines during a delightful tasting experience.
Next, visitors explore the vineyard before traveling to the medieval town of Saint-Émilion. Here, they discover the historic streets, monuments, and squares. A tasting of local macarons is also included.
The tour wraps up with an optional visit to a second winery in Pomerol, offering an additional tasting of four wines.
Transportation and Logistics
Guests are transported from Bordeaux to the various destinations during the half-day tour in a 9-seater van. The journey includes a 75-minute drive to the winery, a 45-minute drive to the vineyard, and a 75-minute drive to the medieval town of Saint-Émilion. The tour ends with a return to Bordeaux. Depending on the option booked, the meeting point may vary.
| Destination | Duration |
|————-|———–|
| Winery | 75 minutes |
| Vineyard | 45 minutes |
| Saint-Émilion | 75 minutes |
The transportation allows guests to experience the picturesque landscapes and vineyards while traveling comfortably between the tour locations.
Winery Tour and Tasting
After being transported to the winery, guests embark on a guided tour led by knowledgeable staff.
They’ll learn about the winemaking process, from grape cultivation to fermentation. The tour culminates in a tasting of at least three wines produced on-site. Guests sample the region’s renowned varietals, gaining insights into the unique terroir and winemaking techniques.
The guided tasting allows them to appreciate the complex flavors and aromas of each wine. Following the winery tour, the group heads to a nearby vineyard for a stroll through the picturesque landscape, further seeing the local winemaking traditions.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyExploring Saint-Émilion
Following the immersive winery and vineyard experiences, the tour moves on to explore the picturesque medieval town of Saint-Émilion.
Guests wander through the charming streets, marveling at the historic architecture and landmarks. The visit includes a stop at the impressive Saint-Émilion Monolithic Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Participants also have the opportunity to sample the town’s famous macarons, a local delicacy. With ample free time, travelers can further discover the quaint shops, cafes, and panoramic viewpoints that make Saint-Émilion a beloved destination.
The guided tour provides an engaging overview of the town’s rich heritage and vibrant culture.
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Macaron Tasting
As part of the tour, travelers have the opportunity to savor the renowned Saint-Émilion macarons, a local delicacy.
These light, airy cookies with a crisp exterior and soft, chewy interior are a signature treat of the region. The tour includes a tasting of these delectable macarons, allowing visitors to appreciate the unique flavors and textures that make them a beloved specialty.
Whether savoring the classic almond or indulging in creative flavor combinations, the macaron tasting is a delightful addition to the overall wine and cultural experience of the Saint-Émilion tour.
Important Considerations
When booking this Saint-Émilion tour, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended, as the tour involves some walking. Oversize luggage, large bags, alcohol, drugs, food, and pets are not allowed. Travelers should have breakfast before the wine tasting, as it’s an integral part of the experience. The meeting point may vary depending on the option booked, so it’s essential to confirm the location in advance. These considerations will help ensure a seamless and enjoyable tour.
| Do | Don’t |
|—|—|
| Wear comfortable shoes | Bring oversize luggage |
| Dress in casual clothing | Carry large bags |
| Hydrate with water | Consume alcohol or drugs |
| Have breakfast before tasting | Bring your own food |
| Confirm meeting point | Bring pets |
Customer Feedback and Ratings
The tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 264 reviews.
Highlights from customer reviews include:
Praise for the guide’s expertise and safe driving, such as Emmanuel’s exceptional knowledge and care.
Enjoyment of the wine tasting experiences and recommendations from the knowledgeable guides.
Appreciation for the historical information and insights provided during the tour of the medieval town of Saint-Émilion.
Customers consistently report a high level of satisfaction with the tour, praising the overall experience and value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Meal Options Are Available During the Tour?
The tour does not include any meals. However, it’s recommended to have breakfast before the wine tasting, as the itinerary involves some walking. No outside food or alcohol is allowed on the tour.
Can I Take Photos During the Winery Tour?
Yes, participants can take photos during the winery tour. The tour allows for photography, so visitors can capture their experience exploring the vineyards and learning about the winemaking process.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Families?
The tour is primarily designed for adults and may not be the most suitable option for children or families. The activities, such as wine tasting, would likely not be enjoyable or appropriate for young participants.
Can I Purchase Wine on the Tour to Take Home?
Yes, you can purchase wine to take home during the tour. The tour includes a wine tasting at a winery, and you’ll have the opportunity to buy bottles of the wines you sample if you’d like.
Is There Any Assistance Provided for Disabled or Elderly Participants?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention assistance for disabled or elderly participants. However, the small group size and live guide suggest they may be able to accommodate special needs with advance notice. It’s best to inquire with the tour operator.
The Sum Up
The Saint-Émilion Half-Day Tour from Bordeaux offers an immersive experience exploring the medieval charm of this renowned wine region. Visitors can expect a guided winery tour, wine tasting, and macaron sampling, all while enjoying the scenic landscapes. With comfortable transportation and a small group size, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the rich history and winemaking traditions of Saint-Émilion.
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