From Bordeaux: St-Emilion Day Tour with Tastings and Lunch

Thinking about exploring one of France’s most beautiful wine regions? This St-Emilion day tour from Bordeaux promises a blend of stunning scenery, fascinating history, and, of course, some excellent wines. It’s a popular choice among travelers wanting a taste of authentic Bordeaux viticulture without venturing too far from the city.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines educational visits to three different wineries with a leisurely stroll through the medieval UNESCO-listed village of Saint-Emilion. Plus, the picnic lunch at a château adds a personal, local touch that many tours overlook. On the flip side, a few reviews mention that the one-hour free time in Saint-Emilion might feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re eager to soak in the town’s atmosphere.

This experience is well-suited for wine enthusiasts, those interested in history, and anyone wanting an authentic taste of Bordeaux without the hassle of organizing everything independently. It’s especially friendly for small groups, making the day feel intimate and personalized.

Key Points

• Learn about Bordeaux wines and regional differences from knowledgeable guides.
• Visit three different wineries to see various wine-making styles and taste a wide range of wines.
• Explore Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with plenty of photo opportunities and charming streets.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch in a beautiful château setting, featuring fresh, local products.
• Small group experience ensures more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• The tour is about 7 hours long, offering a full but manageable day out from Bordeaux.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Saint-Emilion Day Tour

If you’re considering this tour, you’ll want to know exactly what to expect, what makes it stand out, and whether it suits your travel style. We’ll break down each aspect, based on the detailed info and authentic reviews from past travelers.

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins in the heart of Bordeaux at Olala Bordeaux, located conveniently in the city center. You’ll meet your guide at 2ter rue Mably, a spot easily accessible via tram lines B, C, and D, with the Quinconces stop being the closest. The tour uses a comfortable van—a crucial point because the small group size (limited to 8 people) keeps things intimate, and the ride offers scenic views of Bordeaux’s surrounding vineyards.

Most reviews mention the van as being comfortable, which is a relief considering some larger tours can feel cramped or bumpy. The tour starts with a brief introduction, then the scenic drive through stunning vineyards sets the mood for the day ahead.

The Village of Saint-Emilion — A UNESCO Treasure

First, you’ll get an hour in Saint-Emilion, enough time for a quick walk around the cobblestone streets and to soak up the village’s enchanting vibe. Many reviews highlight the town’s beauty, describing it as “one of the most beautiful villages” they’ve seen. The narrow streets are lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, perfect for wandering and photos.

The guide will provide insights into Saint-Emilion’s history and architecture, so you can appreciate the medieval charm as you explore. A couple of reviews mention that more time here would be welcome, especially for those eager to visit more local shops or sit down for a coffee.

Visiting the Wineries — A Tasting and Educational Experience

The core of this tour is the three winery visits, each offering a different perspective on Bordeaux wines and production techniques.

First Château — A Tasting in a Classic Setting

At the first Château, you’ll enjoy a tasting of three wines. The host will guide you through the tasting process, sharing details about the grape varieties and winemaking techniques. Multiple reviews praise the hosts’ friendliness and knowledge, with some calling the hosts “great” and “very passionate.”

One reviewer loved how two wineries showed their facilities and explained their process—a valuable aspect if you’re curious about how Bordeaux wines are made. The experience isn’t just about sipping; it’s about understanding what makes these wines special, from vineyard to bottle.

Second Château — Picnic and Local Flavors

Midday, you’ll arrive at a château for a picnic lunch. The meal is described as artisanal and traditional, featuring local products, cheeses, charcuterie from the Basque Country, and fresh accompaniments served in jars. You’ll share a bottle of wine with your group, which many find adds to the convivial atmosphere.

The lunch experience gets high marks—several reviews mention how the outdoor setting and the food made for a memorable break. One review highlights, “the lunch was lovely, with nice cheese and charcuterie,” and others mention the delicious wines enjoyed during the meal.

Final Château — Wrapping Up with More Tasting

The last stop offers an additional tasting of three wines, giving you a good overview of the region’s diversity. The hosts are described as engaging and passionate, making complex topics understandable. Several reviewers say they learned a lot and discovered new favorite wines.

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Overall Value and Experience

Considering the cost, many reviews emphasize that the tour offers excellent value for money. It includes three wine tastings, a guided village walk, a picnic lunch, and transportation—all in a 7-hour package. It’s a relaxed, well-organized day that balances education, taste, and sightseeing.

Guides and Group Size

The guides are consistently praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. Travelers often mention how their guides helped make the day fun and informative, with some reviews noting that their guides brought a lot of personality and local passion to the experience.

The small group size (up to 8 participants) is a big plus, allowing for more interaction and personalized attention. Many reviewers say it felt like a friendly day out with friends rather than a big tourist bus.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Arrive a few minutes early — the tour starts promptly at the designated time.
• Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised, as most of the day is outdoors.
• A water bottle is recommended—you’ll want to stay hydrated, especially if the weather is warm.
• Keep in mind that children under 16 and pets are not allowed, so this is best suited for adults or older teens.
• The schedule can vary depending on traffic and winery availability, so flexibility is a good idea.

What Could Be Improved?

The main critique from some reviews is that the free time in Saint-Emilion feels quite limited—about an hour isn’t enough for a deep exploration or a sit-down coffee in the town’s charming cafes. If you’re someone who loves to linger, you might find this a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

This Bordeaux Saint-Emilion tour offers a compelling mix of wine education, scenic beauty, and local culture. The small-group format, combined with passionate guides and thoughtfully chosen wineries, makes it a standout option for those keen to expand their wine knowledge and enjoy authentic experiences.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a well-organized, personable, and relaxed day without the stress of self-planning. If you’re a wine lover or simply curious about Bordeaux’s most famous region, this tour delivers a lot of value—delicious wines, beautiful scenery, and plenty of stories to take home.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This tour is designed for adults, with children under 16 and pets not allowed for the comfort of the group. For families, a private tour might be more appropriate.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, including visits, tastings, and the village exploration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Bringing a water bottle is encouraged to stay hydrated.

Are the wines included in the price?
Yes, the tour fee covers tastings at three wineries, with multiple wines sampled at each stop.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most of the tour takes place outdoors, and some winery visits may involve walking or standing, so consider your mobility needs.

What happens if the schedule varies?
While the schedule might shift slightly due to winery availability or traffic, the overall quality and content of the tour remain consistent.

In summary, this St-Emilion day trip from Bordeaux is a genuine treasure for those eager to see a beautiful village, learn about Bordeaux wines, and enjoy a relaxed day out in stunning surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting to appreciate French vintages, you’ll likely find plenty to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here: