Medoc and Libournais (Left and right bank)

Explore Bordeaux’s Medoc and Libournais on a Private 10-Hour Tour

This $290 per person tour offers a full day exploring both the left and right banks of the Gironde estuary in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France. With a 4.5-star rating from Domaine Lacour, it promises an intimate experience led by a certified driver guide in a comfortable hybrid vehicle. The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, making it ideal for those wanting an in-depth taste of Bordeaux’s renowned wine regions without rushing.

From the moment of pickup at your hotel or airport, this private tour takes you through two distinct terroirs, offering a balanced look into Bordeaux’s varied landscapes. While the experience includes visits to wine estates, cellar tours, and tastings, it also features a traditional local lunch and a ferry crossing, creating a well-rounded day of discovery. The tour is perfect for travelers seeking customized, flexible experiences with knowledgeable guides in a private setting.

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Key Points

• Private 10-hour tour exploring Bordeaux’s Medoc and Libournais regions
• Includes wine estate visits, cellar tours, and tastings
• Ferry crossing and drive through two distinct terroirs
• Led by a certified bilingual guide (English and French)
• Comfortable hybrid vehicle with 200 km mileage included
• Flexible pickup options from nearby locations in Blaye

Starting Point: Personalized Pickup and Welcome

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, airport, or train station in Bordeaux or nearby in Blaye. After a brief brunch, your private driver guide acquaints you with the plan for the day while sharing insights about the Bordeaux wine industry and regional highlights. This personalized approach ensures you feel well-informed and ready to enjoy the day ahead.

The driver guide’s expertise and ability to speak both French and English make for smooth, engaging conversations throughout the trip. The full support provided by the guide means you can focus on enjoying each moment, from scenic drives to wine tastings, without any logistical worries.

Visiting the Medoc: First Stop at a Wine Estate

Your first destination is a Medoc estate, where you’ll step into a world of Bordeaux wine. The estate visit includes a tour of the cellar and vineyard, providing insights into the winemaking process. After the tour, you’ll participate in a wine tasting session, sampling wines directly from the estate.

This initial visit emphasizes the distinctive terroir of the Medoc region, known for its robust reds and prestigious châteaux. The experience is designed to offer a hands-on understanding of Bordeaux’s viticulture. The estate visit is an excellent introduction to the region’s winemaking traditions, especially for those interested in the variety and quality of Bordeaux wines.

Traditional Lunch in a Local Setting

Following the first estate visit, the tour includes a traditional lunch in a local restaurant or area. While the data doesn’t specify the menu details, this meal typically offers regional specialties, allowing you to sample authentic Bordeaux cuisine. The lunch break provides a relaxed pause before heading to the other side of the estuary, letting you enjoy the local atmosphere and regional flavors.

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Crossing the Gironde Estuary to the Right Bank

After lunch, the tour crosses the Gironde estuary using a ferry crossing, which adds a scenic element to the day. The ledge crossing offers lovely views and marks the transition from Medoc to the right bank of Bordeaux’s wine regions.

Once across, the focus shifts to discovering two different estates on the right bank. The guide leads you through cellar visits, vineyard walks, and wine tastings, showcasing the distinct styles and terroirs of Libournais. This area is renowned for its merlot-based wines, providing a contrast to the Medoc’s reds.

Visiting Two Estates on the Right Bank

On the right bank, the second estate visit emphasizes the diversity of Bordeaux wines. You will explore the cellar and vineyard, learning about local winemaking techniques and the impact of the terroir. During tastings, expect to sample different wines, appreciating the varieties and stylistic differences from the Medoc region.

Each estate visit is designed to be informative and engaging, giving a real feel for the character of Bordeaux’s right bank. The cross-Estuary journey itself is a highlight, offering both scenic views and a sense of regional variety.

The Benefits of a Private, Customized Tour

This tour’s private nature allows for tailored experiences, with the guide adjusting to your interests and pace. The customized planning means you can focus on the wineries and regions that intrigue you most. The licensed guide ensures you’re well-informed, whether discussing wine styles, regional history, or local geography.

The use of a comfortable hybrid vehicle and mileage package of 200 km ensures a smooth, eco-friendly ride that can cover the extensive area comfortably. The ferry crossing is included, making for an effortless transition between the two regions.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour involves walking around estate vineyards and cellars, but no specific physical restrictions are mentioned. It’s suitable for most travelers comfortable with walking moderate distances. Since it is a private experience, the group size remains small, enhancing comfort and personalized attention.

Cost-Effective and Flexible Booking Options

The $290 price per person includes all transportation, estate visits, wine tastings, and ferry crossing. However, sightseeing tickets and food or drinks outside the included lunch are not covered. The booking provides the benefit of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for travelers with uncertain schedules.

Final Thoughts: A Balanced Bordeaux Experience

This full-day private tour is an excellent choice for those wanting a comprehensive look at Bordeaux’s wine regions without rushing. The balanced itinerary — from the Medoc’s legendary reds to the Merlot-dominant wines of Libournais — showcases the diversity of Bordeaux wines.

The personalized service, expert guidance, and scenic crossings make for a memorable day, especially suitable for those interested in wine tasting, regional variety, and regional scenery. While the tour does not include additional sightseeing tickets or food outside the provided lunch, the overall experience offers great value for wine enthusiasts seeking an educational and enjoyable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the hybrid vehicle is included along with mileage of 200 km and the ferry crossing between regions.

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

What languages does the guide speak?
The guide speaks both French and English, ensuring smooth communication and informative commentary.

Is lunch included in the tour?
The tour includes a traditional lunch in a local setting, but drinks and additional food are not included.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, making it a full-day activity suitable for most travelers.

Can this tour be customized?
Being a private tour, it can be tailored to your interests, allowing flexibility to focus on specific estates or regions.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of crossing the Gironde estuary, visiting two distinct terroirs, and the personalized guide service make this a well-rounded Bordeaux wine experience.

Are physical activities involved?
The tour involves walking around estate vineyards and cellars, but no specific physical restrictions are noted.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby