Bike Tour by Saby

Discover a Unique Wine Adventure in Saint-Emilion

The Bike Tour by Saby offers an engaging way to explore Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exceptional wines and picturesque landscapes. Priced at $113.38 per person, this full-day experience combines cycling and walking over approximately 7 hours, making it an ideal option for active travelers eager to explore the region’s viticultural world.

This tour is designed for those who appreciate authentic wine experiences and want to see the countryside off the beaten track. What sets it apart is the opportunity to visit local family-owned vineyards and cellars, taste multiple wines, and enjoy a French lunch at La Table 38, all while being led by a knowledgeable local guide. While the physical activity is moderate, participants should have a moderate fitness level to comfortably manage the day’s pacing.

Key Points

• Full-day experience blending cycling and walking in Saint-Emilion
• Visits to local vineyards and cellars, including Château Saint-André Corbin
• Wine tasting of authentic, approachable wines
• Lunch in the cellar of the Saby family at La Table 38
• Tour departs from Château Rozier at 10:00 am and lasts about 7 hours
• Private tour for your group ensures personalized attention

Exploring the Vineyards and Cellars with Saby

The tour begins at Château Rozier – Vignobles famille Saby in Saint-Laurent-des-Combes, where you meet your guide and start your journey at 10:00 am. Over the course of the day, you’ll visit two important vineyard sites: Château Saint-André Corbin and Château Rozier.

At Château Saint-André Corbin, you spend about 2 hours exploring the cellars and vineyards, walking through the heart of the estate’s lush vines. The visit includes an admission ticket and provides an authentic look into the winemaking process, with the opportunity to appreciate the property’s historic charm. This stop offers a chance to see the vineyard landscape and learn how terroir influences the wines.

Next, the tour continues with a visit to the cellars of Château Rozier, where your guide leads you through the wine storage areas for about 1 hour. Here, tasting local wines is a highlight, and you’ll get a sense of the estate’s style and approach. The admission ticket included ensures access to these behind-the-scenes areas.

Panoramic Views of Saint-Emilion

An essential part of this experience is the stop at a viewpoint overlooking the village of Saint-Emilion. From this vantage point, you can take in the classic views of the medieval town and the surrounding vineyards, making it an ideal photo opportunity. The scenery offers a perfect backdrop to understand why Saint-Emilion has earned its UNESCO status.

Following the viewpoint, the tour guides you to the Vineyard Saby, located at the foot of the Tour du Roy. This visit provides insight into the family’s vineyard operations and their commitment to authentic winemaking. The blend of history and modern viticulture here makes it a fascinating stop for wine enthusiasts.

French Lunch in a Cellar at La Table 38

Midday, the group gathers at La Table 38, located within the Saby family’s cellar. For about 1 hour, this lunch experience is served by the restaurant, offering a traditional French meal paired with the wines tasted earlier. This meal provides a relaxed setting to savor regional flavors and continue to enjoy the authentic terroir of Saint-Emilion.

The lunch in the cellar is a special feature of the tour, emphasizing the connection between food and wine in French culture. It also offers an opportunity to chat with the guide and learn more about the wines and local traditions.

Cycling Through Saint-Emilion’s Historic Landscape

Throughout the day, the cycling component allows you to pass by notable viewpoints and vineyard landscapes. The route includes passage through the village, where the cobblestone streets and medieval architecture add to the charm. Cycling offers a comfortable way to cover more ground and see less accessible areas that are often missed on traditional tours.

The bicycle ride is designed to be manageable for those with moderate physical fitness, with the total duration around 7 hours. The pace is flexible, and the focus remains on enjoying the scenery and learning about the local wines.

Meeting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour starts at Château Rozier in Saint-Laurent-des-Combes. The pick-up time is at 10:00 am, with the activity concluding back at the original meeting point. The purchase of a mobile ticket simplifies access, and the tour is private, meaning only your group participates, ensuring a more personalized experience.

The tour length of approximately 7 hours makes it suitable for those seeking an immersive day without feeling rushed. Advance booking is recommended, with the average booking happening 31 days in advance.

The Role of the Guide and Overall Experience

The tour is led by a local guide, with reviews highlighting the engaging storytelling and deep knowledge of Alex, the guide. The guide’s explanations enhance the experience, making each visit informative and personable. Visitors appreciate the authentic wines presented, describing them as approachable and affordable.

The overall rating of 5.0/5 from 2 reviews underscores the high satisfaction level, especially praising the wine tastings, the original village visit, and the warm hospitality received during the day.

Practical Considerations and Cancellation Policy

This private tour requires moderate physical activity and is suitable for active guests comfortable with cycling and walking. The free cancellation policy allows cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case of weather or schedule changes.

Since the experience depends on good weather, cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund. The tour also welcomes service animals, making it accessible for guests with specific needs.

Final Thoughts on the Bike Tour by Saby

The Bike Tour by Saby presents an authentic, interactive way to explore Saint-Emilion’s renowned vineyards and picturesque village. Combining cycling, walking, wine tasting, and a French lunch, it offers a rich experience that showcases the region’s terroir and family-driven winemaking.

Ideal for active wine lovers seeking an immersive day, this tour balances scenic views, historical insights, and tasty wines in a private setting. While it demands some moderate physical effort, the experience’s personalized approach and high-quality visits make it a memorable way to enjoy Saint-Emilion’s charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners or only experienced cyclists?
The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness. It involves cycling around vineyards and passing through village areas, but the pace is manageable for most active travelers.

How long do stops at each vineyard last?
The visit to Château Saint-André Corbin lasts about 2 hours, and Château Rozier is approximately 1 hour. The lunch at La Table 38 takes around 1 hour.

What is included in the price?
The admission tickets to the vineyards, wine tastings, and lunch at La Table 38 are included. The tour is private and uses a mobile ticket for easy access.

When should I book this tour?
Booking is recommended about a month in advance, with the activity usually booked 31 days ahead. This ensures availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start time, offering full refunds if needed.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
The guide, such as Alex, shares insights on the wineries, the village, and the vineyards, making each stop informative and engaging.

Is transportation provided between stops?
The tour includes cycling and walking, so you will be on your own between sites, with the guide leading you through the planned route.

What makes this tour stand out from other Saint-Emilion excursions?
Its combination of cycling and walking, exclusive visits to family vineyards, and the lunch in a winery cellar provide a highly personalized and authentic experience.

Are there any physical or accessibility considerations?
Participants should have a moderate fitness level to handle cycling and walking demands comfortably.

Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Since it’s a private experience, it can be tailored for families or groups wanting a personalized day exploring Saint-Emilion’s wines and scenery.