Saint Emilion Wine and Bike Tour

Thinking about exploring Bordeaux’s famed wine region? This Saint Emilion Wine and Bike Tour combines the joy of cycling with first-hand wine tasting and local gastronomy, making it a fantastic way to see the area without the typical bus crowd. We’ve reviewed this experience based on traveler feedback and provided the details you need to decide if it’s right for you.

What we love about this tour: the professional guides who bring the region to life, the scenic cycling routes through vineyards, and the chance to taste wines directly at the chateaus. Plus, the gourmet picnic lunch amidst the vines and the small-group setting create an intimate, relaxing atmosphere.

A consideration: this tour is not suitable for children under 12, and you do need to meet minimum height and cycling experience requirements. If you’re not comfortable on a bike or have mobility restrictions, you might prefer alternative options.

Who it suits best: active travellers with an interest in wine, who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and cultural exploration, and are comfortable with a full-day itinerary. It’s ideal for those wanting an authentic, in-depth experience of Saint Emilion and Pomerol’s vineyards.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Visit renowned chateaus and enjoy tastings in private settings.
• Scenic Rides: Cycle through picturesque vineyard landscapes that are impossible to appreciate from a car.
• Gourmet Picnic: Savor a traditional French picnic lunch with regional ingredients and a glass of wine.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants for a more personal and engaging experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable hosts who share insights about Bordeaux’s wines and history.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, tastings, and meals, making it a comprehensive day trip.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Saint Emilion Wine and Bike Tour

Starting Out: Convenience and Comfort

You’ll meet your guide at the Bordeaux Tourist Office, a central and easily accessible location. From there, a 70-minute minivan ride whisks you out of the city and into the heart of the Bordeaux wine country. This transport segment helps keep the experience relaxed and hassle-free, especially after a morning in the city.

The tour features brand-new electric bikes, which are designed to make cycling through hilly vineyard terrain effortless, regardless of your fitness level. Plus, a quick safety briefing ensures everyone is comfortable before hitting the scenic routes.

Exploring Saint Emilion’s Charm

Once in Saint Emilion, the small-group tour begins with a guided walk through the cobbled streets and medieval architecture the village is famous for. Reviewers like Sharon from Australia appreciated the “interesting information and engaging stories” from their guides. This part of the tour offers a chance to soak in the atmosphere and learn about the history and significance of the UNESCO-listed town.

Winery Visits and Tastings: A Closer Look

The core of this experience lies in two winery visits, both at Grand Cru chateaus. These are private visits, allowing guests to see the wine-making process up close and taste wines directly from the source. Reviewers like Jesica from the U.S. noted “the vineyards were really nice and very welcoming,” with generous tastings that included a broad array of reds, a white, and a rosé.

One of the most praised aspects is the minimum of six tastings, giving plenty of opportunity to explore Bordeaux’s signature style. Guides like Nate and Alex are often highlighted for their enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge, making each tasting both educational and enjoyable.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch with a View

Midday, you’ll stop for a gourmet picnic amidst the vines. This isn’t just a simple sandwich; reviewers emphasize the “delicious” and “very French” lunch, typically prepared by local caterers. It features regional ingredients, and you’ll enjoy it with a glass of wine, adding to the authentic experience. Jessica mentioned that the picnic was “fun” and a highlight of her day.

More Vineyard and Village Exploration

After lunch, the tour continues with a guided walk of Saint Emilion, exploring its charming alleys and historic sites. This segment provides a deeper appreciation of the town’s architecture and history, with guides sharing stories that make the streets come alive.

In the late afternoon, you’ll visit a family-owned estate on one of the best terroirs in Saint Emilion, which reviews describe as a highlight for its intimate setting and rich wines. The final vineyard stop offers quiet, personal tastings that leave a lasting impression.

Return Journey and Final Toast

As the day winds down, a one-hour van ride returns you to Bordeaux, giving time to relax and reflect. Many reviews emphasize the value of the entire experience, which includes transportation, tastings, lunch, and guided tours, all for about $205 per person — a reasonable price considering the depth and quality of the day.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Duration and Group Size

This tour runs for approximately 8 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Limited to 8 participants, it offers a more personalized experience than larger group tours.

Price and Value

At $205, the tour includes transportation, e-bike rental, two winery visits with tastings, a gourmet picnic, and a guided village tour. Considering these are private visits and high-quality tastings, most travelers find it excellent value compared to doing these activities independently.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a hat, a reusable water bottle, and layered clothing are recommended. Remember, the tour involves cycling on cobblestone streets and touring cellars where the temperature hovers around 59°F (15°C).

Requirements and Restrictions

Guests must be at least 150cm tall and have experience cycling, though the electric bikes make it accessible even for beginners. The tour is not suitable for children under 12 or those with mobility restrictions, as Saint Emilion’s streets are not wheelchair accessible.

Dietary Accommodations

While they can accommodate some dietary needs, vegan options are not guaranteed. Be sure to notify the tour provider at least 72 hours in advance for specific requests.

Weather and Cancellations

The tour is subject to weather conditions; in case of rain or insufficient participation, it may be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund if notified at least 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Experiences You Can Expect

From the reviews and itinerary, this tour offers more than just wine tasting. The guided walk through Saint Emilion adds cultural richness, while the private winery visits provide a behind-the-scenes look at Bordeaux’s wine-making process. Guests consistently praise the guides for being knowledgeable, personable, and adding humor and stories that keep the day lively.

The scenic cycling route is a major highlight, allowing visitors to explore vineyard landscapes that are often missed by car tours. You’ll love the way the bikes glide over gentle hills, with panoramic views of the vines stretching to the horizon. This active element ensures you feel the fresh air and sunshine, making the experience more memorable.

The gourmet picnic is celebrated as a genuine taste of France, with local ingredients and regional wines that elevate the whole day. Reviewers frequently mention how relaxing and delicious this part of the tour is, giving you a true taste of Bordeaux’s culinary culture.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active wine lovers who want more than just a tasting experience. If you enjoy cycling, exploring authentic villages, and learning about wine from passionate guides, this tour fits the bill. It’s also well-suited for those who want a small-group setting for a more personalized adventure.

However, if you are traveling with kids under 12, have mobility issues, or prefer a more leisurely, less physically active day, you might want to look into alternative tours. The focus here on cycling and walking makes it less suitable for those with certain physical limitations.

Final Thoughts

The Saint Emilion Wine and Bike Tour offers a compelling blend of outdoor activity, wine education, and culinary delight. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and private winery visits create an intimate and engaging atmosphere that many travelers find enriching.

For those who appreciate a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and wine, this tour provides excellent value and plenty of opportunities to taste Bordeaux’s best. It’s a day designed for curious, active travelers eager to experience France’s legendary vineyards in a way that’s both fun and memorable.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners on a bike?
Yes, the e-bike makes cycling easy regardless of your experience level. The bikes are new and designed to assist on hilly terrain, so beginners should feel comfortable.

Are the wine tastings at the chateaus private?
Yes, the tastings occur at private chateau visits, offering a more exclusive experience compared to larger group tastings.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes for cycling and walking, sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and layered clothes for varying temperatures in the cellars are recommended.

Can I customize dietary needs?
While they can accommodate some needs, vegan options are not guaranteed. Inform the provider at least 72 hours prior if needed.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, including transportation, winery visits, lunch, and village exploration.

What is the maximum group size?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be rescheduled or canceled if weather conditions are unsuitable. You’ll be notified at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Saint Emilion Wine and Bike Tour stands out as a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience Bordeaux’s vineyards while staying active and engaged. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a memorable day out, it offers a genuinely authentic taste of France’s wine country.

You can check if your dates are available here: