Saint-Emilion Electric Bike Day Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch

A Detailed Look at the Saint-Emilion Electric Bike Day Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Bordeaux and want to add a touch of adventure to your wine experience, this Saint-Emilion electric bike tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally hopped on this tour, the overwhelmingly positive reviews and detailed itinerary paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone who loves wine, scenic riding, and charming villages.

What really stands out are the guided visits to two wineries—each offering tastings—and the chance to cycle through the rolling vineyards on a comfortable e-bike. Plus, the opportunity to explore the UNESCO-listed village of Saint-Emilion makes it a balanced mix of tasting, sightseeing, and easy exercise.

One thing to consider is the moderate physical activity level required—cycling proficiency is a must, and the tour is designed for those who can confidently handle an e-bike. It’s also worth noting that the tour is run in small groups—max 10—which keeps things intimate and personalized. If you’re after a relaxed yet enriching day outside Bordeaux, this could be a perfect choice.

This experience suits travelers who want an active day topped with some of the best wines France has to offer, especially if you enjoy a bit of culture and gorgeous scenery in one go.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal and engaging experience.
• Two guided winery visits include wine tastings, giving a good variety of local wines.
• E-bikes make cycling easy, even for those with moderate fitness levels.
• Picnic lunch with traditional French products adds a delicious, relaxed break.
• Free time in Saint-Emilion allows for wandering the UNESCO-listed village at your own pace.
• Round-trip transport from Bordeaux removes the hassle of planning logistics.
• Weather considerations are taken seriously, with rain gear provided and backup plans if weather is bad.
• Duration of 8-9 hours makes it a full, satisfying day trip but not overly tiring.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Transport

Your day kicks off at the rustic meeting point in Bordeaux—RUSTIC VINES—at 9:30 am. From there, a comfortable drive takes you into the Saint-Emilion region, about 45 minutes away. This transit is part of the experience, giving you a moment to get excited before the day starts.

Cycling Through Vineyards

Once you arrive, your group will hop on electric bikes, which are a real game-changer here. We loved the way the e-bikes make cycling through the hilly vineyards effortless—you get to focus on the scenery and the wines, not leg fatigue. The ride lasts about an hour, with gorgeous views on small country roads, and it sets a relaxed tone for the day.

Wineries and Tastings

The first stop is Chateau Bernateau, a family-run estate that offers a warm, authentic feel. Here, you’ll tour the property and enjoy a tasting of their wines. As one reviewer shared, “Our guide was so positive and brought his knowledge and tireless energy to our day of touring,” which really sums up the vibe.

Next, there’s a picnic lunch set up amidst the vines—a typical French spread of cheeses, cold cuts, vegetables, and fresh bread. This is a highlight for many, as it provides a genuine taste of local flavors in a beautiful setting.

After lunch, you’ll cycle again to Les Domaines De Moncets, another charming estate. The visit includes a guided tour and wine tasting, which many guests found to be both educational and delicious. One reviewer called the experience “wonderful,” and noted the wines were “spectacular” as expected.

Exploring Saint-Emilion

In the afternoon, you’ll have free time in Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This medieval village is full of winding streets, historic buildings, and cozy shops. Many travelers said this was their favorite part—walking through the village and soaking in its authenticity. A wine tasting in a tiny shop in the center caps off the visit, and one guest said, “The wines in the village were the best I’ve had in France.”

Return to Bordeaux

The day winds down with a scenic drive back to Bordeaux around 6 pm. You’ll have plenty of time to reflect on the beautiful views and delicious wines, and the guides are full of tips for exploring Bordeaux afterward.

The Real Experience: What You Can Expect

Scenic Cycling and Wine Tasting

The highlight of this tour is combining cycling with wine—a combo that works beautifully. The e-bikes remove the physical barrier, so you can focus on the scenery and the wine experiences. Guests rave about the “beautiful ride,” and many mention how riding through the vineyards felt almost like being part of the landscape.

Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Touches

Reviews frequently mention the guides’ attentiveness and knowledge. They’re described as friendly, funny, and full of insights about the region’s wine and history. For example, one guest exclaimed, “Our guide Suzanne was beyond words knowledgeable, kind, and just a terrific guide,” which shows the personal touch.

Food and Wine

The picnic lunch is simple but well-received, with guests noting the quality of the cheeses and cold cuts. The wine tastings are often praised for their quality and variety, especially the last tasting in Saint-Emilion, which many say was their favorite part of the day.

Flexibility for Weather

Rain isn’t a deal-breaker here. The tour provides ponchos and rain coats, and if weather conditions are severe, the trip can be led by van. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers, especially during the April-October window.

Group Size and Price

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour maintains a cozy, friendly atmosphere, allowing guides to give more personalized attention. At around $209 per person, the experience offers good value considering the wine tastings, lunch, transportation, and the small-group vibe.

Downsides and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers wished for more free time in Saint-Emilion to explore at their own pace. Also, you need to be comfortable cycling confidently on an e-bike—this isn’t a casual stroll, but it’s manageable for those with moderate cycling skills.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous wine lovers who enjoy a bit of activity, scenic beauty, and authentic local experiences. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid large, impersonal tours and prefer a more intimate setting. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates good wine and beautiful views but isn’t keen on strenuous activities, the electric bikes make this accessible.

It’s less suited for travelers with very young children or those unable to cycle confidently, given the physical requirements and outdoor nature of the trip.

FAQs About the Saint-Emilion Electric Bike Tour

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
You should be confident cycling on an electric bike, but no prior experience is necessary. The bikes are user-friendly, and the electric assist makes pedaling easy, even on hills.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Rain gear is provided, and if conditions are severe, the tour may be led by van instead of bikes, ensuring you still get to enjoy the day.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, including transportation, cycling, visits, and free time in Saint-Emilion.

What’s included in the lunch?
A picnic with typical French products like cheeses, cold cuts, vegetables, and bread. It’s simple but very tasty, especially in the picturesque vineyard setting.

Are the wineries visited all the same?
No, the tour has a list of about 30 partner wineries, meaning each tour might visit different chateaux. The ones in the itinerary are just examples of what you might experience.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s designed for confident cyclists and involves moderate physical activity. Not ideal for young children or those with mobility issues.

How many people are in the group?
A maximum of 10, which keeps things personal and allows guides to give individual attention.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for travel adjustments.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Saint-Emilion electric bike tour offers a wonderful way to combine wine, scenery, and gentle exercise in one day. The small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and authentic visits make it stand out from more generic wine tours. The experience is well-suited for those who want to enjoy Bordeaux’s vineyards without feeling rushed, and who appreciate the charm of Saint-Emilion’s streets.

If you’re after a memorable, immersive day that balances fun, culture, and plenty of tasting, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially recommended for wine enthusiasts who love an active twist and value personal attention on their journey through Bordeaux’s famed wine country.

Happy planning, and enjoy your Bordeaux adventure!