Visit Saint-Emilion and Pomerol:Vineyards, lunch and tastings included

Discover the beauty of Bordeaux’s renowned wine region with this expertly curated tour of Saint-Emilion and Pomerol. Perfect for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and those craving authentic vineyard experiences, this day-long trip promises stunning scenery, insider stories, and top-notch tastings. We loved the personable guides, exclusive access to historic cellars, and the charming village walk.

One aspect to consider is the small group size—while it ensures personalized attention, it also means booking well in advance (averaging 53 days ahead). This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, immersive day with a good mix of culture, wine, and countryside views. If you’re after a balanced experience, with expert guides and excellent value for money, this trip is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Small-group intimacy enhances personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert local guides share engaging stories and wine knowledge, adding depth to the experience.
• Exclusive cellar visits and tastings provide insight into Bordeaux’s prestigious Châteaux.
• Beautiful village strolls in Saint-Emilion showcase the region’s medieval charm.
• All-inclusive amenities like transportation, lunch, and bottled water make for a smooth day.
• Advance booking is recommended, with the tour often booked 7+ weeks ahead for peak seasons.

If you’re heading to Bordeaux and want an authentic taste of its legendary wine culture, this small-group tour covering Saint-Emilion and Pomerol offers an appealing mix of history, scenery, and, of course, exceptional wine. With a duration of around six hours, it balances sightseeing and tasting without feeling rushed—something many travelers appreciate when exploring such a renowned wine region.

The Booking and Price Point

Priced at roughly $174.50 per person, this tour offers good value especially considering all the inclusions: private transportation, lunch, guided visits, and tastings. Because it’s a small-group experience (max 8 travelers), you get plenty of personal attention, which makes for a more relaxed and informative day. The tour is typically booked about 7 weeks in advance—so planning ahead is wise if you’re visiting during high season or want to secure a spot.

Meeting Point and Timing

Starting at 9:30 am from 6 All. de Tourny in Bordeaux, the day begins with a convenient pick-up. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward. The early start allows you to avoid crowds and enjoy the village and vineyards in a calmer setting.

Exploring Saint-Emilion: Charm and History

The first part of your day is dedicated to Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its medieval streets and historic wine cellars. The guide will take you on a walking tour through the cobbled lanes, revealing stories about the town’s origins and its noble wine heritage. The reviews praise guides like Paola, who is described as knowledgeable and personable, making the history come alive with anecdotes and insights.

You’ll visit cellars dating back to 1855, which provides a tangible connection to the past. The visit to these historic cellars isn’t just about admiring the architecture but also understanding the traditional techniques that have shaped their winemaking. Expect to see some impressive underground spaces and learn how Bordeaux’s top Châteaux store and age their wines.

Tasting in Saint-Emilion

A highlight is the visit to a select wine shop where you’ll explore different grape varieties and get a feel for the regional nuances. The reviews mention how guides like Paola help guests understand the differences between grape types and what makes Bordeaux wines unique. It’s a perfect introduction if you’re new to wine tasting or want to deepen your knowledge.

Vineyard Visit and Tasting

The tour then moves to a vineyard where you’ll witness the winemaking process firsthand. Walking among the vines, you’ll learn about the art and science behind Bordeaux wines, finishing with a tasting directly from the vineyard. Guests have expressed how much they appreciated this direct experience, with one reviewer saying, “The vineyards and chateauxs were a great choice.”

Lunch in a Château

A picnic lunch at a Château offers a relaxed, scenic break. While the specifics of the cellars served vary, reviews note the lunch is delicious and well-organized, providing a chance to unwind and chat with fellow travelers. Although some felt the lunch could be better, overall, it’s seen as a pleasant complement to the day’s activities.

Pomerol and Final Wine Tasting

The last stop usually takes place in Pomerol, famous for its plush, velvety reds. Depending on the day, the visit might alternate between Pomerol and Saint-Emilion, but the focus remains on high-quality tastings. You’ll visit another winery for a comprehensive tour and tasting of carefully selected wines. Guests have described the experience as “fantastic” and “attentive,” with guides sharing insightful stories that add depth to the tasting.

Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides for their ability to make each visit engaging and educational. One mentions how the guide’s expertise really helped them understand Bordeaux’s different wine regions, making the tasting moments much more meaningful.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation is comfortably handled by an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a cool and relaxed ride between stops, especially on warm days. Bottled water is provided, allowing you to stay refreshed. Since the group is limited to 8, conversations are intimate, and you won’t feel lost in a crowd.

The 6-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to savor the experience but not so lengthy as to tire out. The tour’s timing from morning to early afternoon allows for a full day of exploration without sacrificing your evening plans.

What Travelers Love

• The personalized attention and friendly guides, especially noted for their passion and knowledge.
• The scenic beauty of Saint-Emilion’s village and vineyard landscapes.
• The quality of tastings, with many reviewers mentioning the chance to try wines directly from the vineyard.
• The value for money, considering all inclusions—transport, lunch, tastings, and guide service.

A Few Considerations

Some reviewers felt the lunch could be improved, perhaps with more variety or a different setting. Also, given the tour’s popularity, early booking is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re someone who appreciates not only drinking wine but understanding the stories and craftsmanship behind it, this tour’s guided approach hits the mark. It’s also suitable for travelers who love strolling through historical villages and prefer a manageable, small-group experience over large, busier tours. The mix of cultural sights, vineyard visits, and tastings makes it an excellent choice for a well-rounded Bordeaux day trip.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For wine lovers wanting a comprehensive and personalized introduction to Bordeaux’s most famous regions, this tour delivers on all fronts. The combination of expert guides, historic cellars, scenic views, and delicious tastings creates an experience that’s both educational and enjoyable. The cost, when weighed against the inclusions and quality, offers solid value.

While some might wish for a slightly more gourmet lunch, the overall experience is memorable and well-organized. It’s best suited for travelers who value storytelling, authenticity, and intimate group sizes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as it’s designed for a general audience, with a maximum of 8 people ensuring personalized service.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made approximately 53 days ahead, so planning early is wise, especially for peak seasons.

What’s included in the price?
Price covers private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, lunch, and a guide.

Are the cellars accessible to all visitors?
The tour includes visits to cellars dating back to 1855, which are part of the experience, though accessibility details aren’t specified.

Can I customize the tasting experiences?
The itinerary is fixed, but the guide’s expertise may allow for some flexibility during the visits.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a picnic-style lunch is included, offering a casual, scenic break during the tour.

This Saint-Emilion and Pomerol tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience for those eager to step inside Bordeaux’s legendary wine world. Its combination of historic charm, expert guidance, and exclusive tastings makes it a standout choice—especially if you value quality and authenticity in your wine adventures.