Imagine savoring fine Loire Valley wines while enjoying a romantic picnic amidst the rolling vineyards of Chinon. This “Picnic in the Vines” tour from Château du Petit Thouars offers an engaging blend of winery exploration, tastings, and scenic dining, all for $88.83 per person. With around 2 hours and 30 minutes of immersive experiences, it’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet insightful outing in the heart of France’s renowned wine country.

The tour departs from 108 Château du Petit Thouars in Saint-Germain-sur-Vienne and is suitable for most visitors, with a moderate physical fitness level recommended. It’s a small-group experience—generally booked 34 days in advance—that delivers a personalized touch to your Loire Valley adventure. Highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 based on 160 reviews, this experience is recommended by 96% of past participants.

Key Points

Includes a guided tour of Château du Petit Thouars with insights into winemaking and terroir
Wine tasting features Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc wines from the family-owned estate
Enjoy a private, scenic picnic with multiple vegetarian options available
Pick your favorite wine to accompany your meal directly from the tasting
Flexible departure times throughout the day enhance convenience
Free cancellation allows booking with confidence up to 24 hours in advance

Visiting Château du Petit Thouars in Chinon

The tour begins at Château du Petit Thouars, a historic estate owned by the du Petit Thouars family since 1634. Upon arrival, a friendly host welcomes guests and guides them through the family-run château, providing a detailed explanation of the estate’s history and the winemaking process.

This tour emphasizes the significance of terroir in Loire wines, with a stroll through the vineyards and behind-the-scenes access to the aging cellars where wines mature in French oak casks. The setting offers stunning views of the estate and nearby dovecote, setting a picturesque scene for the experience.

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Exploring the Château Vineyards and Cellars

Walking through the vineyard areas, visitors gain an appreciation of the organic wine production practiced on the estate. The cellars reveal the winery’s aging process, where wines are carefully matured before bottling, providing a clear picture of traditional craftsmanship.

The guides do an excellent job of explaining the challenges and triumphs of running a historic family winery, making this more than a simple tasting. It becomes a chance to understand the passion and heritage behind the wines, which are delicious and well-regarded.

Tasting the Fine Loire Wines

After the tour of the estate, guests enter the tasting room to sample some of the estate’s best wines—notably, Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc. The wine tasting includes five wines and offers an opportunity to identify personal favorites.

Guests are invited to select a bottle of their preferred wine to accompany their scenic picnic lunch, making this a truly personalized experience. The wine quality consistently receives praise, with reviews noting the delicious flavors and excellent value.

Choosing and Enjoying Your Picnic

Following the wine tasting, visitors are left to relax and enjoy their private picnic. The setting provides viewpoints over the vineyards and the estate’s dovecote, creating an ideal backdrop for a leisurely meal.

The picnic includes generous portions of local foods, with vegetarian options available upon request. Guests mention that the food is hearty and delicious, making the experience feel both relaxed and special. Some reviews highlight the quality of the ingredients and the pleasant ambiance of the outdoor setting.

Logistics and Group Size Details

The tour operates with a maximum of 80 travelers, but the reviews highlight a small, intimate atmosphere—often just a few families or small groups. The meeting point is well-defined at Château du Petit Thouars, and the activity ends back at the same location.

Guests can choose from various departure times throughout the day, offering flexibility for planning. The tour runs in all weather conditions, so appropriate dress is advised depending on the forecast.

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The Guide and Family-Owned Estate

Many reviews praise the knowledge and friendliness of the hosts, especially Sebastian and Darcy, for their passion and thorough explanations. The family heritage dating back centuries adds a personal touch that enhances the experience.

Guests find the guides’ explanations about wine-making techniques, vineyard care, and the estate’s history** to be engaging and informative. The owner’s storytelling stands out as a highlight, adding a personal connection to the estate’s story.

The Unique Atmosphere of the Château

This tour’s setting is one of its most appreciated features—scenic views, a historic château, and a peaceful countryside environment. The outdoor picnic offers a tranquil escape from busy tourist spots, making it ideal for romantic outings or relaxed afternoons in the Loire.

Guests often mention the château cat Biscuit as an unexpected delight, adding a warm, homey vibe to the experience. The laid-back pace allows for an authentic connection with the estate and its wines.

Valuing the Experience for the Price

At $88.83 per person, this experience delivers good value considering the inclusions: guided tour, wine tastings, and a scenic picnic. The length of 2 hours and 30 minutes** allows for a comprehensive yet relaxed visit.

Cancellation flexibility ensures peace of mind, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour. This makes it an accessible option for those with changing plans or uncertain schedules.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This tour caters to wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Loire wines, particularly Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc. It also suits couples and small groups looking for a romantic or intimate experience in a beautiful setting.

The scenic outdoor picnic, personalized service, and family-owned estate appeal to visitors wanting an authentic, immersive taste of Chinon’s wine culture. Physically, visitors should have a moderate fitness level to comfortably walk through vineyards and cellars.

Château du Petit Thouars Picnic in the Vines: A Charming Loire Experience

This tour combines history, wine, and scenery into a well-rounded experience perfect for lovers of authentic French wines and tranquil countryside views. The family-owned estate and personalized service make each visit special, while the scenic picnic provides a fitting conclusion.

While the experience is not overly strenuous, it’s best suited for those comfortable with light walking and outdoor dining. The price point and reviews of high satisfaction reflect excellent value for money. Whether for a romantic outing or a cultural exploration, this Loire Valley tour offers a delightful taste of Chinon’s wine heritage.

✨ Book This Experience

Picnic in the Vines – A Unique Loire Wine Experience

5.0

(160 reviews)

89% 5-star

“We had the most fabulous time with Darcy getting to know his family winery and chateaux. It was a small group (my family and another couple) and Da…”

— Elizabeth W, Featured

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a dress code or specific attire recommended?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for outdoor walking and picnic. Comfortable shoes are advised, especially if walking through vineyards and cellars.

Can I choose a vegetarian meal?
Yes, vegetarian options are available and should be requested at the time of booking. The picnic foods are described as hearty and delicious.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the activity start are not refundable.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including the guided tour, tasting, and picnic.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The activity is designed for adults and families, but physical activity should be manageable for most children.

How many people typically participate?
The tour operates with a maximum of 80 travelers, but the reviews frequently mention a small, intimate group atmosphere, often just a few families or couples.

This “Picnic in the Vines” tour from Château du Petit Thouars presents a relaxed yet informative way to explore the Loire Valley’s best wines. Its beautiful setting, personalized approach, and delicious food and wine make it a recommendation for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Chinon’s wine culture.