St. Emilion: Half Day E-Bike & Wine Tour with Wine & Cheese

Imagine pedaling through rolling vineyards, sampling some of the finest Bordeaux wines, and enjoying a gourmet picnic—all without breaking a sweat. That’s essentially what this Saint-Émilion half-day E-bike and wine tour promises. It’s a well-rounded experience blending scenic cycling, informative guided visits, and plenty of tasting opportunities in one convenient package.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? For starters, the premium E-bikes make covering the hilly terrain effortless, so you can focus on soaking up the views and flavors. The knowledgeable guides add a layer of storytelling and insight that elevates the experience from just another tasting to a true journey into Bordeaux’s wine culture. Plus, the inclusion of a cheese platter paired with wine adds a delightful gourmet touch.

However, a word of caution: this tour is not suitable for anyone unable to ride a bike. If you’re comfortable cycling and enjoy wine, then you’ll find this experience balanced, enjoyable, and packed with value. It’s an especially good pick for those who want to combine outdoor activity with cultural discovery, all set against the backdrop of Saint-Émilion’s charming landscape.

Good To Know

• Scenic Cycling: Glide effortlessly through picturesque vineyards on premium E-bikes, offering great views without the physical strain.
• Wine Variety: Savor at least 7 different Bordeaux wines, with tastings at renowned chateaux and a wine shop.
• Expert Guidance: Guided by a native English-speaking wine expert who shares stories and local legends, enriching your understanding.
• Gourmet Picnic: Enjoy a cheese and charcuterie board, paired with wine, in the vineyards—an authentic and tasty experience.
• Limited Time: Perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience the essence of Saint-Émilion’s wine scene.
• No Hotel Pickup: Be prepared to meet at the designated location in Saint-Émilion; no transport included.

You can check if your dates are available here:

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point at Bordeaux Wine Pilgrim

Your adventure begins at the Bordeaux Wine Pilgrim’s office, located conveniently at the foot of Saint-Émilion. It’s a straightforward meeting spot, with clear directions to the left corner of the parking lot. Here, you’ll meet your guide, who is a native English speaker and a wealth of knowledge about the region.

Safety Briefing & Introduction

After a brief safety overview, which takes about 15 minutes, you’ll get fitted with your premium E-bike and helmet. These bikes are praised for their ease of riding and comfort, making them accessible even for less experienced cyclists. The tour’s pace is relaxed, designed so you can enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Scenic E-Bike Ride in the Vineyards

The first segment lasts about 45 minutes, offering sweeping views over Saint-Émilion’s hills and lush vineyards. Reviewers repeatedly mention how smooth the bikes are and how easy it is to focus on the surroundings rather than struggling with the terrain. Expect to pass through quiet country lanes, with bursts of greenery and classic stone walls framing the route.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Guided Tour of a Renowned Château

Next, you’ll visit one of the region’s esteemed wineries. Your guide, who is also a storyteller, will explain the nuances of French winemaking traditions, terroir, and vineyard management. One reviewer noted that the visit was “both clear and engaging,” with lots of interesting stories about the winemakers’ craft. It’s this personal touch that makes these tastings more memorable.

Wine Tastings at Multiple Vineyards and a Wine Shop

You’ll sample at least 7 wines, ranging from crisp whites to full-bodied reds, with tastings at the château and later in the village. Multiple reviews highlight the quality and diversity of the wines—each offering unique aromas and flavors that showcase Bordeaux’s complexity. One guest said, “The wines were all very good, and I appreciated the opportunity to compare different styles.”

Gourmet Cheese & Charcuterie Picnic

A standout part of the tour is the picnic in the vineyards, featuring local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread. Several reviewers appreciated the thoughtfully prepared spread, which was paired with two or three glasses of wine. One comment described the experience as “delicious and authentic, sitting amidst the vines with a glass in hand.”

Final Stop & Additional Tasting

The tour concludes with another taste at a different vineyard or a wine shop in Saint-Émilion, lasting about 30 minutes. This allows for a few extra sips and the chance to purchase bottles directly from the producers—something many wine enthusiasts find valuable. A review mentioned that while the final stop was enjoyable, they personally would have liked to visit a second winery instead of ending at a wine shop.

Return Journey

The last leg involves a short 15-minute walk back to the starting point, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Reviewers often mention how the ease of cycling and the scenic route make this part almost meditative.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The Guides

Multiple reviews emphasize the guides’ deep knowledge and friendly demeanor. One reviewer praised Gaspard, noting he was “knowledgeable, friendly, and made the experience feel personal and relaxed.” Their storytelling and passion for the region add a layer of authenticity that you might miss with a less engaging guide.

The Bikes

The premium E-bikes are consistently praised for their comfort and reliability. They allow you to cover diverse terrain without fatigue, making the experience accessible to most adults. The bikes also come with helmets, and safety is prioritized.

The Wine & Food

The selection of wines is described as varied and high-quality, perfect for learning about Bordeaux’s different styles. The cheese board paired with wine offers a gourmet touch, elevating what could otherwise be a simple tasting. Many reviewers mention the deliciousness of the picnic, adding a relaxed and convivial element.

The Price & Value

At $129 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—combining scenic cycling, multiple tastings, a gourmet picnic, and expert guides. Considering the number of wines, the quality of the guides, and the personalized nature of the experience, many find it to be a very good value. It’s especially suitable for travelers with a moderate budget looking for immersive, authentic activities.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: 4.5 hours makes it a manageable half-day outing—perfect if you’re looking to explore without overcommitting.
• Timing: Check availability and starting times; tours typically begin in the morning or early afternoon.
• What to Bring: Wear comfortable clothes suitable for cycling and bring a reusable water bottle. As plastic waste is discouraged, you’ll refill your bottle at the start and at the chateau.
• Suitability: Not recommended for anyone who can’t ride a bike, as the entire tour revolves around cycling.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour suits wine lovers eager to learn about Bordeaux wines in an engaging, relaxed setting. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic countryside. If you appreciate authentic experiences over cookie-cutter tours, and don’t mind cycling, you’re likely to find this a highlight of your trip to Saint-Émilion.

It’s less suitable for families with very young children or anyone with mobility issues, due to the cycling component. But if you’re confident on a bike and want to combine exercise with wine tasting, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults able to ride a bike. The focus is on wine tasting and cycling, so children are discouraged.

Do I need to bring my own water?
Yes, travelers are asked to bring their own refillable water bottles, as plastic consumption is actively reduced during the tour.

Are the bikes easy to ride?
Yes, the premium electric bikes are praised for their comfort and ease of use, making them accessible even if you’re not an experienced cyclist.

Will I get a chance to buy wine?
Absolutely, the final stop includes opportunities to purchase bottles directly from the wineries or wine shop.

How much wine will I taste?
You’ll enjoy two to three glasses of wine during the picnic and at least 7 different wines throughout the tour.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a cheese and charcuterie picnic, paired with wine, is part of the experience. Some reviewers wished for a slightly more substantial meal but enjoyed the quality and setting.

How long is the cycling portion?
The scenic ride lasts about 45 minutes each direction, with stops and sightseeing along the way.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can choose to reserve now and pay later with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours before.

This Saint-Émilion half-day E-bike and wine tour offers an engaging way to explore Bordeaux’s most iconic vineyard region. With its blend of stunning scenery, expert-guided tastings, and gourmet picnic, it delivers a balanced taste of culture, nature, and gastronomy.

If you’re looking for an active, authentic, and enriching experience in the Bordeaux wine country, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want to learn, taste, and enjoy without the hassle of organizing their own vineyard visits.

While not suitable for those unable to ride a bike, for confident cyclists, it offers an affordable and memorable way to discover Saint-Émilion’s beauty, flavors, and stories—making it well worth considering for your trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: