Private Tour and Tastings in St-Emilion: Grands Crus and Monuments

Explore Bordeaux’s Finest in a Private Day Tour to Saint-Emilion

This private tour offers an engaging journey through one of France’s most celebrated wine regions. Priced at $716.50 per person, it spans 7 to 8 hours and includes visits to prestigious vineyards, the medieval village of Saint-Emilion, and the iconic Monolithic Church. Starting at 9:00 am, the tour features luxury air-conditioned transport with Wi-Fi and bottled mineral water, providing comfort and convenience throughout the day.

What sets this experience apart is the blend of cultural exploration and wine tasting at three distinguished estates. The tour is perfect for those wanting an immersive day of history, architecture, and world-class wines. While the experience emphasizes wine tastings and guided visits, note that lunch or additional food and drink are not included, giving flexibility to plan your own meal.

Key Points

• Private guided day trip starting at 9:00 am from Bordeaux
• Visits three top estates, including Château de Sales and Château La Gaffelière
• Tour includes guided walk through Saint-Emilion and Monolithic Church
• Wine tastings at each estate showcase regional grands crus
• Luxury air-conditioned transport with Wi-Fi and bottled water
• Unesco World Heritage Site provides a charming backdrop for exploration

The Charm of Saint-Emilion’s Medieval Village

The tour begins with a stroll through the cobbled streets of the medieval village of Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. This charming town is famous for its narrow alleys, stone houses, and historical monuments. Your guide shares stories and anecdotes that reveal the village’s long history, blending religious significance with viticulture.

During this hour and fifteen-minute walk, visitors can explore local wine merchant stalls to purchase bottles of their favorite châteaux. The village’s atmosphere combines historical charm with lively modern-day wine culture, making it a perfect introduction to the day’s wine-focused activities.

Visiting the Monolithic Church’s Architectural Marvel

A highlight of the tour is a visit to the Eglise Monolithe de Saint-Emilion, a remarkable underground church carved out of limestone. The 68-meter-high bell tower and the Gothic façade offer striking visual contrasts. The church echoes the village’s religious past and architectural ingenuity.

This hour and fifteen-minute visit is included in the tour, offering insight into medieval religious practices and the unique design of this fragile yet impressive structure. The church’s unusual architecture and historical importance make it a must-see during the day.

Visiting the Château de Sales in Pomerol

One of the key stops is Château de Sales, located northwest of the Pomerol appellation. This estate boasts 47.60 hectares of vines within its 90 hectares total. The vineyard’s boundaries have remained largely unchanged since 1578, with only minor losses during the French Revolution.

Visitors enjoy a guided tour of the cellars and vineyards, depending on availability, where they learn about wine production techniques and see the maturation process. The estate’s prestige is reflected in its prominence within the Pomerol wine scene, making the tasting a key part of the experience.

The Prestige of Château La Gaffelière

Château La Gaffelière is a Grand Cru Classé since 1959, marking it as a top-tier estate in Saint-Emilion. The vineyard has roots dating back to Galloroman times, with mosaics discovered in 1969 attesting to its ancient history.

The visits include exploring the cellars and learning about the winemaking tradition, with tastings of their renowned wines. The estate’s history of excellence and consistent quality make it a highlight for connoisseurs and casual wine enthusiasts alike.

What’s Included in the Tour

The package includes visits to three distinguished estates with guided tours of cellars, vineyards, and production areas, complemented by tastings of the estate wines. The guided walking tour of Saint-Emilion and the visit to the Monolithic Church are also part of the experience, offering a well-rounded cultural and historical perspective.

Transportation is provided in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi and bottled mineral water, ensuring comfort and connectivity throughout the day.

What You Should Expect from the Itinerary

The day begins at 9:00 am with a pickup in Bordeaux, after which the group heads directly to Saint-Emilion. The village visit lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, giving ample time to enjoy the architecture and explore wine stalls.

Following the village exploration, the tour visits the Monolithic Church for a second 1 hour and 15-minute stop, allowing visitors to marvel at its underground construction and historical significance.

The visits to Château de Sales and Château La Gaffelière are scheduled for about 1 hour and 15 minutes each, depending on availability. Each estate offers guided tours, and the wine tastings are a perfect way to appreciate regional grands crus and terroirs.

Personalities and Style of the Guides

The guides are known for their expertise and engaging storytelling. They share anecdotes and historical insights that deepen understanding of both the region’s history and wine production. The tour highlights their ability to blend cultural context with wine tasting seamlessly, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

The tour typically requires booking 15 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. It is suitable for most travelers, including families with children over 18, although wine tastings are not available to those under 18. The non-refundable policy underscores the importance of confirming plans ahead of time.

The tour does not include meals, giving guests flexibility to enjoy lunch at their leisure. The pickup service and private transportation ensure a stress-free day exploring Bordeaux’s wine and cultural heritage.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone eager to explore Saint-Emilion’s UNESCO-listed village and its prestigious vineyards. The personalized nature and small group format allow for a more tailored and relaxed pace. It’s perfect for those who value quality over quantity and appreciate a blend of culture, architecture, and wine.

Final Thoughts on the Saint-Emilion Private Tour

This private day trip combines cultural discovery with world-class wine tastings in an elegant and relaxed setting. The luxury transportation, expert guides, and carefully selected estates make it a compelling choice for those seeking a comprehensive experience of Bordeaux’s right bank.

While lunch is not included, the flexibility allows travelers to enjoy local cuisine separately. With a perfect rating of 5.0 from seven reviews, this tour clearly appeals to those who value high-quality guided experiences in Bordeaux’s wine country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 can participate, but wine tastings are not open to those under 18. They are welcome to join the cultural parts of the tour.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am with a pickup from Bordeaux.

What is included in the price?
The price covers guided visits and tastings at three estates, the guided walk through Saint-Emilion, the church visit, and luxury transportation with Wi-Fi and bottled water.

Are meals included?
No, lunch or additional food and drink are not included, allowing flexibility for guests to dine at their own pace.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book at least 15 days in advance due to its popularity and limited availability.

Can I customize this tour?
The tour operates as a private experience, so adjustments can be discussed based on availability and personal preferences.

What if I need to cancel?
The booking is non-refundable and cannot be changed or canceled for a refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of luxury transport, expert guides, UNESCO heritage village, and prestigious wineries makes this a high-value, immersive experience in Bordeaux’s wine region.

Is this tour worth the cost?
Given the comprehensive itinerary, quality of visits, and the personalized experience, it offers good value for those seeking a luxury, educational day in Saint-Emilion.