Bordeaux Full Day Wine and Bike Tour

If discovering Bordeaux’s wine country by bike sounds appealing, the Bordeaux Full Day Wine and Bike Tour offers a memorable way to do so. Priced at $183.18 per person, this 8-hour and 30-minute guided experience combines scenic cycling, expert-led wine tastings, and a delicious picnic lunch. The tour departs from Bordeaux’s Tourist Office and takes you through the picturesque landscapes and historic streets of Saint-Emilion.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on small group sizes, capped at 8 travelers, which ensures an intimate experience. The electric bikes allow for leisurely rides through hilly vineyards, making it accessible even for those with moderate cycling experience. With tastings at two wineries included and a gourmet picnic with a glass of wine, this tour balances active exploration with indulgent wine tasting, ideal for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Key Points

• Guided by an English-speaking wine expert who shares insights into Bordeaux’s wines and history
• Includes visits to two wineries with at least 6 tastings of red wines
• A gourmet picnic lunch with cheese, charcuterie, homemade quiche, dessert, and a glass of wine
• Stops in Saint-Emilion for sightseeing and a guided walking tour of the medieval town
• Transport in a comfortable 8-seater minivan from Bordeaux’s Tourist Office
• Tour duration of approximately 8.5 hours, with careful pacing and scenic cycling

Starting Point and Tour Duration in Bordeaux

The adventure begins at the Office de Tourisme et des Congrès de Bordeaux at 12 Cr du 30 Juillet. Travelers meet their guide at 9:00 am before boarding a minivan for the scenic drive to Saint-Emilion. The tour lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, making it a full day dedicated to vineyard visits, sightseeing, and tasting. The schedule is designed for a relaxed yet engaging experience, with precise departure times.

Discovering Saint-Emilion by Electric Bike

Once in Saint-Emilion, participants get fitted with electric bikes and apparel after a brief security briefing. The e-bikes make cycling through the vineyards smooth and accessible, even for those with moderate cycling skills. The scenery along the routes features rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming country views, which reviews consistently praise as beautiful and photogenic. The guided cycling allows ample time to appreciate the landscape at a comfortable pace.

Tasting at Two Prestigious Wineries

During the day, visitors visit two wineries that include at least six tastings of red wines. The first winery offers a chance to explore a château with a guided tour that covers the winemaking process, followed by a tasting of their signature reds. The second winery is a family-owned estate located on one of the best terroirs in Saint-Emilion, providing an authentic experience and deep insights into local viticulture.

These tastings are included in the tour price, offering an excellent opportunity to sample Bordeaux’s renowned reds while learning about the region’s wine production from knowledgeable guides. Some guests note that the wine quality and variety are highlights, making it a particularly good choice for serious wine enthusiasts.

Saint-Emilion’s Historic Charm and Guided Walk

Midway through the day, the tour includes a guided walk of Saint-Emilion, a medieval town famed for its cobbled streets and historic architecture. The guide leads visitors through the town’s narrow alleys, sharing stories about its history and wine heritage. The 1.5-hour tour emphasizes the town’s charm, leading to several picturesque viewpoints perfect for photos.

Guests enjoy learning about Saint-Emilion’s UNESCO World Heritage status, along with discovering its famous cloisters, underground churches, and vineyard estates. The walk adds a cultural layer to the wine-focused day, enriching the overall experience.

Gourmet Picnic Lunch with Wine

A highlight of this tour is the home-made gourmet picnic lunch served with a glass of Bordeaux wine. The meal features cheese, charcuterie, housemade quiche, and seasonal desserts, with the menu changing based on the season. The picnic spot offers stunning vineyard views, creating an idyllic setting for lunch.

Guests appreciate that the lunch is included in the tour price, providing a relaxed break amidst the day’s activities. The pairing of regional wines with the picnic helps deepen understanding of local flavors, while the casual outdoor setting enhances the enjoyment.

Visiting a Family-Owned Estate on Prime Terroir

Post-lunch, the tour takes visitors to a family-owned estate situated on one of Saint-Emilion’s best terroirs. Here, visitors explore vineyards, cellars, and learn about the estate’s organic or sustainable practices. The two-hour visit is an immersive experience, with ample time for tasting and asking questions.

Guests consistently praise the authenticity and passion of the estate owners, along with the quality of the wines produced on this prime land. It’s a chance to see a more personal side of Bordeaux wine production beyond large châteaux.

Return to Bordeaux and Tour Logistics

After the vineyard visits and sightseeing, the minivan returns to Bordeaux, with a brief 10-minute drive back to the starting point. The entire experience is well-paced, allowing for leisurely cycling, informative stops, and ample wine tasting without feeling rushed.

The tour operates with a small group limit of 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, and the tour departs promptly at 9:00 am.

Practical Details: Booking, Requirements, and Tips

The tour is recommended for guests aged 14 and above, with a minimum height of 150 cm and cycling experience. The maximum weight for bike use is 130 kg. The tour involves cycling on varied terrain, so participants should be comfortable on bikes.

To minimize environmental impact, bottled water is not provided, but guests are encouraged to bring their own. Refills are available at the wineries and at the chateaus. The tour offers a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, and weather cancellations are handled with rescheduling options.

Why Choose This Bordeaux Wine and Bike Tour?

This full-day experience is ideal for wine lovers who also enjoy outdoor activity and cultural exploration. The combination of guided cycling, wine tastings, and Saint-Emilion sightseeing creates a well-rounded day. The small group size and expert guides enhance the overall quality, making it a trusted choice with a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 151 reviews.

While the price reflects the inclusion of tastings, lunch, and transport, some may find the physical requirements a consideration. However, for those comfortable on bikes and seeking an immersive, authentic Bordeaux experience, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Bordeaux Full Day Wine and Bike Tour: A Practical Choice for Wine Enthusiasts

The Bordeaux Full Day Wine and Bike Tour delivers a balanced mix of activity, education, and indulgence. From scenic cycling through vineyards to tasting at distinguished wineries, every element is designed to showcase Bordeaux’s wine heritage with authenticity.

The guided walk of Saint-Emilion adds a cultural dimension, while the gourmet picnic provides a relaxing break amid beautiful surroundings. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, making it suitable for serious wine aficionados and casual travelers alike.

This tour stands out for its combination of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and authentic wine experiences, making it a highly recommended choice for a full day of Bordeaux exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 14 years old and at least 150 cm tall can participate, but it requires cycling experience. The minimum drinking age is 18.

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?
While the electric bikes make cycling easier, participants should have sufficient cycling experience for safe riding on varied terrain.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, two winery visits with tastings, a guided tour of Saint-Emilion, a gourmet picnic with wine, and local guide services.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather-related cancellations are also handled with rescheduling or refunds.

Is water provided during the tour?
No, bottled water is not provided to protect the environment. Guests are encouraged to bring their own or use refills available at the wineries.

What happens if the tour does not meet the minimum number of participants?
The tour requires a minimum of 2 people; if not reached, it may be canceled with a full refund or rescheduling options.

How early should I book?
The tour is most often booked 37 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended, especially in peak seasons.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour involves cycling on varied terrain, so it may not be suitable for wheelchair users. Check with the provider for specific accessibility questions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for cycling, and weather-appropriate gear, especially if rain is forecasted. No specific dress code is required.

Can I extend my wine tastings or add extra wine?
Extra glasses of wine and nibbles are available at the last château, but additional tastings or bottles are not included and would need to be purchased separately.