Saint-Emilion: Vintage moped rides and tours

Unique Vintage Moped Tour in Saint-Émilion for Wine Enthusiasts

This Saint-Emilion experience offers a 3-hour vintage moped ride through the picturesque vineyards of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France. Priced at $104 per person, it combines scenic drives, a visit to a listed wine estate, and a relaxed tasting session. The tour departs from Chateau Vieux Clos, just a short distance from the heart of Saint-Émilion, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the region.

What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to explore the UNESCO-listed wine-growing landscapes on restored vintage mopeds—models from the 70s and 80s such as Motobécane or Peugeot. The 35 km circuit includes confidential rural roads and visits into neighboring Pomerol and Montagne Saint-Émilion areas. It’s a fun, local, and authentic way to experience the Bordeaux vineyards, especially appealing for those seeking a retro vibe combined with wine discovery.

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Key Points

• Vintage moped ride through Saint-Émilion’s vineyards and villages
• Duration of 3 hours, including safety briefing and tasting
• Departure from Chateau Vieux Clos just 1 km from the town center
• Includes a digital roadbook, helmet, and full fuel tank
• Optional wine tastings at a partner château are available for an extra fee
• Accessible to adults 18+ with a valid driver’s license

Starting Point at Chateau Vieux Clos

The adventure begins at a metal wine storage cellar with an eye-catching large door inscribed with “Château Vieux Clos”. This charming spot is the designated meeting point, located just outside Saint-Émilion, and offers free on-site parking. It’s the perfect gateway to an original way of exploring this renowned wine region.

The tour starts with a safety briefing that takes about 15 minutes, where participants receive a helmet and hygienic helmet liner. Whether choosing an independent or guided experience, all riders are introduced to the vintage mopeds, ensuring confidence on the rural roads ahead.

Exploring Saint-Émilion on a Vintage Moped

The 35 km route takes riders on confidential countryside roads that pass through villages, vines, and châteaux. You’ll enjoy views of UNESCO World Heritage-listed vineyards, with a few detours into neighboring appellations like Pomerol and Montagne Saint-Émilion. This rural loop is designed to be accessible for all adults 18+, even those without prior motorcycle experience.

Throughout the ride, guides lead or assist depending on group size. The digital roadbook offers recommendations on stops, viewpoints, and useful addresses that help you navigate comfortably. The full tank of fuel ensures a hassle-free experience, while assistance is available in case of mechanical issues.

Visiting a Listed Wine Estate for Tasting

A key highlight involves visiting a partner winery, which is optional and paid for on site. The tasting session typically lasts about 1 hour, providing an opportunity to sample local wines at a listed estate. Participants often find this a highlight, as it offers a relaxed setting to appreciate the terroirs of Saint-Émilion.

Additional tastings or castle tours are available nearby for those interested, with prices ranging from €8 to €25 per person. The experience is designed to balance scenic riding with wine appreciation, making it ideal for wine lovers seeking a fun, local adventure.

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The Moped Model and Safety Equipment

The restored vintage mopeds are models from the 70s and 80s, including Motobécane and Peugeot bikes. Riders can choose independent or guided tours, with safety a top priority. All participants receive an approved helmet and a hygienic helmet liner for comfort and protection during the 35 km circuit.

The activity is suitable for adults only, and closed shoes are required for safety reasons. The entire experience duration is estimated at 3 to 3.5 hours, including time for riding, sightseeing, and wine tasting.

Route and Stops along the Rural Loop

The itinerary begins at 911 Rte d’Orléans with a 15-minute safety briefing. Afterward, riders head into Saint-Émilion for a self-guided tour of about 2 hours, passing through iconic village streets, châteaux, and scenic viewpoints.

A viewpoint stop includes a guided tour, offering panoramic views of the vineyards. The final stop is the wine tasting, which lasts about an hour and takes place at a partner estate. After the tasting, riders return to the starting point at 911 Rte d’Orléans.

Practical Details for Participants

Participants need to present a driver’s license (photo or scan accepted), and the activity is limited to those 18 and older. The minimum age requirement ensures safety, and the tour is wheelchair accessible. Participants should wear closed shoes and plan for bad weather, as the activity may be postponed in case of poor conditions.

The tour can be scheduled in the afternoon (around 2 p.m.) or at 5 p.m., depending on availability. The reservation process allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travel plans.

Comparing to Similar Experiences in the Region

This vintage moped ride offers a distinctive way to explore Saint-Émilion, setting itself apart with retro-style bikes and local ambiance. Compared to other wine tours or vineyard visits, this activity emphasizes scenic riding and informal tasting sessions rather than structured, large-group tours.

Other experiences include half-day visits and full-day tours with more extensive wine tastings or lunch options, but few combine vintage riding with wine discovery in such a relaxed, authentic manner. The price of $104 per person is competitive, especially considering the personalized nature of the experience.

Final Thoughts on the Vintage Moped Tour

The Saint-Emilion vintage moped ride offers a refreshing twist on wine tourism, combining scenic exploration with retro fun. The 30-35 km route on restored vintage bikes along confidential rural roads provides a unique perspective on the region’s landscapes.

The tour’s main strength is its informality, local charm, and hands-on approach to wine discovery. It’s particularly suited for adults seeking a fun, active, and original way to experience Saint-Émilion. The guides’ professionalism and the well-organized logistics ensure a smooth experience, even for those with no prior riding experience.

The only potential limitation might be weather dependence, and the activity is not open to pregnant women, children under 18, or people over 287 lbs. Still, for adventure-loving wine fans, this vintage moped tour delivers a memorable and genuine taste of the Bordeaux region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a driver’s license required to participate?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is necessary, and it can be a photo or scan.

Can I join if I have no experience riding a moped?
Yes, the route is accessible to all adults 18+, even those with no previous riding experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the vintage moped rental, helmet, full fuel tank, insurance, digital roadbook, and assistance if needed.

Are wine tastings included in the base price?
No, tastings at partner châteaux are optional and payable on site at between €8 and €25 per person.

What should I wear for the activity?
Participants must wear closed shoes and should be prepared for variable weather conditions.

Is accessibility available for wheelchair users?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What is the ideal group size?
The tour is designed for private groups, providing a personalized experience.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including riding, sightseeing, and tasting.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be at least 18 years old and under 95 years to join.

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