Bordeaux: Private Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting & Picnic

If you’re eyeing a trip to Bordeaux and want something a little different from the usual wine tour, this private horseback ride combined with wine tastings and a picnic might catch your attention. While I haven’t personally tried this experience, I’ve gathered enough insights to give you a good picture of what to expect. It’s an option that feels both relaxed and engaging, perfect for those who want to combine scenic beauty with a touch of elegance.

What I really like about this tour is its focus on private, intimate experiences—you won’t be part of a large crowd. Plus, the chance to ride through lush vineyards while learning about winemaking traditions sounds genuinely unique. On the flip side, it’s a five-hour commitment and costs about $380 per person, so it’s not the cheapest outing out there. This experience would suit travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor activity, culture, and gourmet bites – especially if you’re traveling with a partner or friends who enjoy a little adventure.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience, avoiding large groups.
• Beautiful vineyard scenery along horseback riding trails.
• Wine tastings at two different châteaux with stories behind the varieties.
• Optional picnic with wine, cheese, charcuterie, and bread, for an extra charge.
• Learn about winemaking and the region’s terroir through guided commentary.
• Ideal for those who love scenic outdoor activities combined with wine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour sets itself apart with its combination of horseback riding and wine tasting, two activities that naturally complement each other. It’s a thoughtfully curated way to savor Bordeaux’s countryside without the rush of a typical bus tour. Instead, you’ll be riding through vineyard landscapes, soaking in the views that make this region so famous.

Starting with the horseback ride, you’ll be led by an experienced guide for about 1.5 hours. The terrain is likely gentle, making it accessible even if you’re not a seasoned rider. The scenery here is truly the star—rolling vineyards, perhaps some sun-dappled rows of grapevines, and the open sky overhead. Many reviews highlight the “stunning views” and “peaceful rides” as major highlights, confirming that this part of the tour offers a chance to unwind and connect with the land.

Once the ride wraps up, you’ll switch gears to wine tasting. Visiting two different châteaux, you’ll have the opportunity to try two wines—each with its own story. The guides are keen to share insights about the local varieties and winemaking traditions, which adds educational value to the tasting. This is not just about drinking wine but understanding what makes Bordeaux wines special—its terroir, climate, and craftsmanship.

For those looking to make the experience even more memorable, there’s an optional picnic offering at Château LÉperon. For an additional charge, you can enjoy a cold basket for two, featuring a bottle of wine, bread, cheese, charcuterie, and pâtés. Imagine sitting outdoors, sipping wine, nibbling on local treats, all while gazing over the vineyards. Many guests find this peaceful setting the perfect way to relax and savor the moment.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Vérac, ensuring a smooth start. You’ll then head out for the horseback ride, which lasts about 1.5 hours. Expect to be guided through scenic vineyard landscapes, where the focus is on enjoying the environment rather than intense riding.

After the ride, there’s a break—this might include a chance for photos or a quick visit to the château. Then, the wine tasting kicks in, lasting approximately 1.5 hours. Here, you’ll taste wines at two different châteaux and hear stories about the local varieties, giving you a richer appreciation of Bordeaux’s wine culture.

The tour concludes with a drop-off back in Vérac. All in all, it’s a well-paced, immersive experience that balances outdoor activity with wine education and leisure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the $380 fee are hotel pick-up and drop-off, the horseback ride through vineyards, an experienced guide, and wine tastings at two châteaux. The price reflects a private group, usually for four people, making it a personalized experience.

The optional picnic isn’t included in the base price but can be added for an extra charge. This is worth considering if you want to extend your enjoyment and indulge in some local produce while taking in the views.

How It Compares to Similar Experiences

Compared to other Bordeaux activities—like city tours or larger wine tastings—this one stands out because of the combination of outdoor activity and wine. It’s more active than just sitting in a tasting room, and it offers a more personal touch with its private setup.

However, it’s important to remember that this is a 5-hour tour, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits and want a relaxed, scenic experience. If your main goal is to sample Bordeaux wines without much physical activity, you might find this a bit too involved. Conversely, if you’re more about the landscapes and a peaceful vibe, this could be a perfect fit.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, friends, or small groups looking for an authentic countryside adventure. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy being outdoors, love wine, and want to learn about regional traditions in a relaxed setting. It’s not specifically geared toward families or children—riding horses and wine tasting might not be the best combo for kids—so it’s best for adult travelers or possibly older teenagers.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic escape with some light activity and wine, this tour offers a good balance. It’s not overly fancy but delivers a genuine sense of Bordeaux’s countryside charm.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Since it’s a private tour, confirm the group size (usually four people) when you book.
• The price is per person, so consider if you’re traveling solo or as a couple—this could be a pricier option than larger group tours.
• Think about adding the picnic if you’re craving a more leisurely, gourmet experience—many reviews suggest it’s worth the extra.
• Be prepared for the weather, especially if the ride is in open countryside. Sunscreen, hats, or rain gear might be handy depending on the forecast.
• Don’t forget your camera—those vineyard vistas are worth capturing.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

All in all, this Bordeaux horseback riding and wine tasting tour offers a beautiful way to explore the region’s landscapes while enjoying some of its finest wines. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines outdoor serenity with cultural insights, making it suitable for travelers who want to do more than just taste wine in a cellar.

If you’re the type of person who appreciates scenic views, personalized attention, and a touch of adventure, this could be a memorable highlight of your trip. It’s particularly good for those who want a relaxed pace and meaningful stories behind the wines they sip.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the private nature and scenic setting add to its value—especially if you’re looking for a special, more intimate experience. Just keep in mind the length and physical activity involved when planning your day.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for those who don’t ride horses often?
Yes. The ride is about 1.5 hours and typically guided, so it’s designed to be accessible, even for beginners or those with limited riding experience.

What is included in the wine tasting?
You’ll taste two wines at different châteaux. The guides also share stories about the local varieties and winemaking traditions, enriching your tasting experience.

Can I add the picnic?
Yes, the picnic is available for an additional charge. It includes a cold basket for two, a bottle of wine, bread, cheese, charcuterie, and pâtés.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including pickup, riding, wine tasting, and return.

What language is the guide available in?
The tour is conducted in English and French, accommodating a range of travelers.

Is this experience good for families or children?
It’s primarily suited for adults. The horseback riding and wine tasting are not typically family-friendly activities, so consider it if traveling with older teens or adults.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s best to reserve ahead of time, especially since it’s a private experience. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In the end, this Bordeaux private horseback riding and wine tasting experience offers a chance to slow down, soak in beautiful views, and enjoy regional wines in a personal setting. If that sounds like your kind of day, it’s worth considering for your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: