When it comes to exploring the Loire Valley, few activities combine scenic beauty, history, and local flavors as seamlessly as a wine-focused picnic tour. This Picnic in the Vines experience from Château du Petit Thouars offers just that—a chance to walk through historic vineyards, sample excellent wines, and enjoy a laid-back picnic with stunning views. It’s a solid choice for anyone craving an intimate, informative, and relaxed day out in the countryside.
Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the personalized insight into the winemaking process and the beautiful setting overlooking the Loire vineyards. The guides’ knowledge makes it much more than just a tasting; it’s about understanding what makes Loire wines special. Plus, the picnic lunch itself, with vegetarian options available, adds a lovely touch of comfort amid the natural beauty. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is about 2.5 hours—so it’s not a full-day affair, which might be a plus or minus depending on your schedule. This experience works best for those who enjoy a mix of learning, tasting, and relaxing in a picturesque setting.
If you’re someone who loves wine, appreciates authentic local experiences, and prefers small-group settings, this tour is likely a great fit. It’s also quite popular, typically booked about a month in advance, which suggests people find real value here. While it’s not specifically designed as a family activity, children are permitted if accompanied by adults, making it potentially suitable for families with older kids interested in wine and history.
Key Points
- Personalized vineyard experience: Small group size ensures a more intimate and informative tour.
- Historic winery: Owned by the same family since 1634, adding depth to the visit.
- Quality wines: Tasting of Loire’s signature varietals like Cabernet Franc and Chenin blanc.
- Scenic picnic: Enjoy a relaxed, delicious lunch with views over the vineyards and château.
- Flexible departure times: Multiple options throughout the day mean you can fit it into your schedule.
- Good value for the price: At around $88, you get a guided tour, tasting, and picnic, making it quite a comprehensive experience.
What to Expect on the Tour
Your day begins by making your own way to Château du Petit Thouars, located just a short drive from Chinon. Once there, you’ll be greeted warmly by your hosts and invited into a family-run estate with centuries of history. The guided tour of the château and its vineyards is where you’ll start to understand the nuances of Loire winemaking.
The hosts, particularly Darcy and Sebastian as noted in reviews, do a fantastic job of sharing their passion and knowledge. You’ll stroll through the vineyards and peek behind the scenes in the aging cellars—where wines mature in French oak casks. This behind-the-scenes look is appreciated by many, as it offers a glimpse into the extensive effort behind each bottle.
Following the tour, you’ll head to the tasting room to sample the estate’s wines—primarily Cabernet Franc and Chenin blanc. Several reviewers mention how much they enjoyed the wines, with one describing their sparkling rosé as “amazing.” You’ll have the opportunity to pick your favorite bottle to enjoy with your picnic, which feels more personal and relaxed than standard tastings.
The highlight, of course, is the picnic lunch. You’ll be left with plenty of time to sit back, soak in the views, and enjoy some hearty, quality food. The setting is idyllic, with tables overlooking the vineyards, the château, and the old dovecote, making for a memorable meal.
The Scenic and Cultural Beauty of Château du Petit Thouars
The estate’s location adds significant charm. The views from the picnic spot are stunning, and many reviewers note how peaceful and beautiful the surroundings are. The château itself adds a fairy-tale feel, with its historic architecture and the vineyards stretching out as far as the eye can see. The property is well-maintained, and the atmosphere is intimate—perfect for a peaceful, educational escape.
Several guests emphasize how personal the experience feels. The hosts are described as knowledgeable and friendly, eager to answer questions and share their family’s story. One reviewer said, “You really get to understand the challenges and triumphs of running a family business in a historic setting.” This personal touch elevates the experience from a typical wine tasting to a genuine connection with local tradition.
The Wine Tasting and Picnic Experience
The wine tasting is more than just a casual sip. It’s an educational moment, with guides explaining the importance of terroir and the winemaking process. Multiple reviews point out how much they appreciated the detailed explanations, making the tasting engaging and memorable.
The wines are well-regarded, with reviewers noting their quality and uniqueness. One guest described the sparkling rosé as a standout. The chance to select a bottle of your favorite wine to accompany the picnic elevates the experience, making it more personalized and special.
The picnic itself is praised for its generous portion sizes and delicious quality. With vegetarian options available upon request, the menu is flexible enough to accommodate different dietary needs. Many reviewers mention how peaceful and enjoyable the lunch was, especially with the scenic views and lovely weather.
Practical Details & Tips
The tour lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes, which is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed yet enriching activity. It’s recommended to book about a month in advance since it’s quite popular. The price of roughly $89 per person offers a lot of value, considering the guided tour, tastings, and picnic lunch included.
Meeting points are straightforward—at the Château du Petit Thouars in Saint-Germain-sur-Vienne. The experience operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly, especially if rain is forecasted or if you want to enjoy the outdoor picnic comfortably.
Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level to walk through the vineyards and cellar areas, but the activity isn’t overly strenuous. Children are permitted if accompanied by an adult, though the experience’s tranquil and educational nature might be best suited to older children or wine enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?
This Picnic in the Vines tour offers an authentic taste of Loire’s wine heritage combined with the serenity of the countryside. The personal stories, the quality wines, and the stunning scenery create a well-rounded experience that’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to learn more about Loire wines in a relaxed setting.
If you’re seeking a genuine, immersive activity that combines history, nature, and good wine, this tour hits all those marks. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a good conversation with their hosts, enjoy scenic views, and love tasting local wines with a side of picturesque landscape.
However, if you prefer a high-energy, fast-paced tour or are traveling with very young children, this might feel a bit subdued. But for most wine lovers looking for something special without the crowds and commercialism, this experience offers real value and memorable moments.
Picnic in the Vines – A Unique Loire Wine Experience
“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…”
FAQ
Is transportation included?
No, you make your own way to Château du Petit Thouars. It’s located a short drive from Chinon, with plenty of parking available.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, which is ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are included and can be requested when booking.
Can children join this tour?
Children are allowed if accompanied by an adult, but it is best suited for older kids interested in wine and history.
What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample wines from the estate’s lineup, mainly Loire’s hallmark varieties like Cabernet Franc and Chenin blanc, with some reviews mentioning a sparkling rosé.
How much should I expect to pay?
The cost is around $88.83 per person, offering a guided tour, wine tasting, and picnic lunch.
What is the group size?
The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 80 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
Is this experience suitable in all weather?
Yes, it operates rain or shine. The outdoor picnic might be less enjoyable in bad weather, so dress appropriately.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 34 days in advance, as it’s a popular choice among visitors.
This Picnic in the Vines experience delivers a blend of education, scenic beauty, and great wine, making it a lovely way to spend part of your Loire adventure. It’s a genuine look into a family-run winery with personal touches that many travelers find memorable. Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile or just looking for a peaceful day out, this tour offers a warm welcome and a chance to savor the best of Loire’s vineyards.
