Bordeaux: St. Emilion Day Trip with Wine Tasting and Lunch

Key Points

• Includes visits to two wineries with guided tours and wine tastings
• Taste up to 10 regional wines across three tasting sessions
• Explore the charming UNESCO-listed village of Saint Emilion on foot
• Enjoy a picnic lunch at the château with a glass of wine included
• Small group experience limited to 8 participants for personalized attention
• Round-trip transportation from Bordeaux is included in the price

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Discover the Heart of French Wine Country

The Bordeaux: St. Emilion Day Trip offers an engaging way to explore one of France’s most celebrated wine regions. For $211 per person, this 7-hour guided tour takes travelers from the bustling center of Bordeaux to the enchanting village of Saint Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour is designed for wine lovers and curious visitors alike, providing a mix of wine tastings, cultural exploration, and scenic views.

The tour is especially praised for its expert guides and well-organized visits. It features stops at two wineries, where guides lead guests through guided tours and tastings, and a delightful picnic lunch at a château. The experience balances education and enjoyment, making it ideal for those who want to deepen their understanding of Bordeaux wines while soaking in stunning landscapes.

Starting Point and Transportation Details

The journey begins at 26 Rue de la Devise in Bordeaux, where guests meet their guide and board a comfortable van. The transportation is smooth, with 45-minute and 15-minute drives between stops, allowing plenty of time for sightseeing and tasting. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—ensures a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention from guides.

The return transfer also takes about 45 minutes, bringing everyone back to the starting point in Bordeaux by the evening. Travelers are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing for walking and outdoor activities in the village and vineyards.

First Winery Visit: Guided Tour and Tasting

The tour’s first stop is at an initial winery, where a guided tour introduces visitors to the specifics of winemaking in the region. Guests learn about vineyard practices, wine production, and terroir specifics, all while enjoying a wine tasting session. This visit lasts approximately two hours and includes the opportunity to sample up to five wines.

The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and engaging. Visitors appreciate the chance to see the wine-making process firsthand and taste wines directly from the source, often with a generous pour.

Picnic Lunch at the Château

Following the first winery, the tour continues with a delicious picnic lunch at the château. The meal includes cheese, bread, charcuterie, and a glass of wine, offering a relaxed setting to unwind and discuss the morning’s tastings. The included lunch is frequently highlighted as a delicious, authentic experience that complements the wine tasting perfectly.

This break provides a chance to enjoy the scenery and atmosphere of the vineyard estate, making the day feel more like a genuine French countryside experience rather than just a series of tastings.

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Second Winery and Additional Tastings

After lunch, the tour visits a second winery for another guided tour lasting about an hour. This stop offers a different perspective on the region’s winemaking, with a focus on varietals and vineyard styles. Guests are invited to taste another set of wines, rounding out the up to 10 wines sampled during the day.

Guides at this location are also highly praised for their informative and friendly approach, helping visitors understand the nuances between different wines and wineries.

Exploring Saint Emilion’s Charm

The highlight of the trip is a guided walking tour of Saint Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Over approximately 1.5 hours, guests stroll through the medieval streets, admiring cobbled alleys, ancient architecture, and monolithic rock churches. The guide shares stories about the village’s history, culture, and the importance of viticulture in shaping its identity.

A final wine-tasting session takes place at a local wine shop within Saint Emilion, offering the chance to sample region-specific wines and perhaps purchase souvenirs or bottles to take home. The visit to Saint Emilion itself is often praised for its scenic beauty and authentic atmosphere.

Return to Bordeaux and Tour Summary

After exploring Saint Emilion, the tour departs for Bordeaux, with a 45-minute drive back to the city. The overall experience is designed to be well-paced, balancing wine education, cultural exploration, and relaxation.

Throughout the day, the expert guides share insights into the region’s history, terroir, and winemaking traditions, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. The small group setting fosters personalized interactions and creates a friendly environment for all participants.

Included Amenities and Practical Details

This tour includes round-trip transportation from 26 Rue de la Devise, guiding services, visits to two wineries, wine tastings at both locations, and a picnic lunch with 10 different wines tasted overall. Reserve and pay later options offer flexibility, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour is suitable for adults over 16 years who are comfortable walking and standing. Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes and plan for variable weather conditions. The tour operates in English and is limited to small groups for an intimate experience.

Why This Tour Stands Out Among Similar Experiences

Compared to other Bordeaux wine tours, this experience is notably praised for its knowledgeable guides, especially those who balance storytelling with wine expertise. The delicious picnic lunch and visits to unique wineries that aren’t easily accessible on your own make this tour a value-rich option.

Guests often commend the scenic beauty of Saint Emilion and its medieval charm, along with the opportunity to taste a variety of wines—up to 10 in total—which provides a comprehensive snapshot of the region’s offerings. The small group size ensures plenty of personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Final Thoughts on the Bordeaux: St. Emilion Day Trip

This tour offers a balanced mix of wine tasting, cultural exploration, and scenic views, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable hosts. The 7-hour duration feels just right, providing enough time to enjoy multiple wineries, a charming village, and a delicious lunch without feeling rushed.

It suits wine enthusiasts and those interested in learning about Bordeaux’s viticulture in an authentic and intimate setting. The absence of children under 16 keeps the group environment suitable for adults seeking a relaxed, mature experience.

While the tour is well-reviewed and highly rated, travelers should be prepared for variable weather and walking in cobbled streets. This experience delivers excellent value for the price, especially considering the quality of guides, wineries, and scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 16 years.

What is included in the price?
The price covers round-trip transportation from Bordeaux, a guide, visits to two wineries, wine tastings, and a picnic lunch with up to 10 wines tasted.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for 7 hours, including travel, tastings, and sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as there is walking involved.

What makes this tour different from others?
The small group size and expert guides who provide detailed explanations make this tour stand out, as well as the authentic winery visits and delicious picnic lunch.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the picnic lunch at the château, paired with a glass of wine, is part of the experience.

Do I get to explore Saint Emilion?
Yes, there is a guided walking tour of the village, lasting about 1.5 hours, with opportunities for wine tastings and sightseeing.

What wines will I taste?
You will taste up to ten wines from two wineries and a wine shop in Saint Emilion, including region-specific varieties.

How many wineries will I visit?
You will visit two wineries, each with guided tours and tastings.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is provided in a comfortable van, with smooth drives between stops.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, informative, and scenic day in Bordeaux’s famous wine region, this St. Emilion day trip offers a memorable experience with excellent guides and plenty of wine.

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