Saint Emilion Wine and Bike Tour

Looking for a way to see Bordeaux’s famous wine region that’s both active and relaxed? The Saint Emilion Wine and Bike Tour offers just that—combining cycling, wine tasting, and a taste of charming French village life. It’s a guided trip designed for those who want to get out into the vineyards without the fuss of traditional tours, and enjoy some of the best wines and scenery the area has to offer.

What we really like about this experience is how easy and accessible it is—thanks to the electric bikes, even those with moderate cycling experience will find it manageable. Plus, the combination of scenic views, winery visits, and a picnic makes it feel like a well-rounded day that’s both educational and indulgent.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the physical requirement: you need to be at least 150 cm tall and comfortable on a bike, which might exclude some travelers. Also, it’s worth noting that this isn’t suitable for children under 12 or those with mobility issues due to the cobblestone streets and cycling nature.

This tour fits best for travelers who appreciate wine, enjoy gentle outdoor activity, and want a deeper feel of Saint-Emilion beyond just sightseeing. If you love engaging with local culture but prefer a relaxed pace, this could be just your thing.

Key Points

• Comfortable Electric Bikes: Makes cycling easy for most people, even those less experienced.
• Well-Curated Wine Experiences: Visit to two wineries with at least six tastings, mostly reds.
• Authentic French Picnic: A homemade, regional lunch in the vines offers a true taste of local cuisine.
• Charming Villages & Scenic Views: Walk through Saint-Emilion’s cobbled streets and vineyards with expert guides.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Flexible & Practical: Includes transportation, guided tours, and tastings—all in one day for around $205.

If you’re visiting Bordeaux and want a way to combine active exploration with wine tasting, this tour hits the mark. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced it, and overall, the feedback is very positive. It’s particularly popular among those who value knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off early, with pick-up in Bordeaux and a short drive (about 70 minutes) to Saint-Emilion. From there, you’ll gear up with an electric bike and get a quick safety briefing—nothing intimidating, just enough to ensure everyone feels comfortable.

Once on your bikes, you begin weaving through the picturesque vineyards and winding country roads. The first major stop is at a Grand Cru Château, where you’ll enjoy a private tasting of some fine wines. This part of the tour is often a highlight, with reviewers praising the quality and variety of wines. One guest noted, “the wineries were all very informative with a nice selection of wines.”

Following this, there’s a gourmet picnic lunch served amidst the vines. It’s made by a local caterer and paired with a glass of wine—an experience that many find to be a quintessential French moment. The reviews consistently mention how delicious and authentic the picnic is, with one traveler saying, “the picnic lunch was fun and very French.”

After lunch, you’ll stroll through Saint-Emilion’s cobbled streets with a guided tour. Expect stories about the town’s history, its architecture, and why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a charming, walkable area, perfect for exploring at your own pace during the free time.

Later, the tour continues with visits to another family-owned estate and more wine tastings. The balance of private tastings and guided visits makes it feel exclusive yet relaxed. Several reviewers highlight the warm and engaging guides—notably, “Alex was amazing,” and “Lola was fantastic,” with a good mix of humor and knowledge.

The day winds down with a final visit, more tastings, and then a drive back to Bordeaux. Arrival time back at the starting point is usually around 5:30 pm, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the city afterward.

The Experience of the Wine Tasting

The 6+ tastings include a variety of Bordeaux reds, with some reviews mentioning the high quality and diversity. One guest called the wine “better than expected,” and others appreciated the chance to taste wines in the privacy of the chateaus, which adds an exclusive feel.

This experience is especially suited for those wanting an educational component—learning about grape varieties, terroir, and wine-making processes—without the overwhelming technical jargon. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the picturesque settings, enhances the tasting experience.

The Cycling Element

Thanks to the brand-new electric bikes, the cycling portion is accessible for most fitness levels. The rides are mostly gentle, about 30-minute segments, winding through vineyards and scenic countryside. As one reviewer put it, “biking through the vineyards was literally a dream,” and many found it a fun, relaxed way to see the area without feeling rushed.

However, you should have sufficient cycling experience and meet the height requirement (minimum 150 cm). The streets in Saint-Emilion are cobbled, so good closed shoes are recommended. The bikes are in good shape, but you might want to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for comfort.

The Lunch and Food

The homemade picnic is a significant highlight, according to reviews. It’s served with regional cheeses, bread, and other local foods, alongside a glass of wine. Travelers love how authentic and well-curated it is, with one describing it as “a delicious picnic amongst the vines.”

Note that vegan options aren’t guaranteed, but dietary needs can be communicated in advance. The inclusion of French appetizers and a final glass of wine make the meal feel special without being overly fancy.

When you do the math, $205 per person seems fair for the quality and inclusions. The tour covers transportation, multiple winery visits, tastings, a gourmet lunch, and guided walking—all small-group and personalized. Many reviewers felt the value was excellent, especially given the high praise for guides and the stunning scenery.

The reviews also reveal that guides like Nate, Clement, and Lola make a lasting impression—they’re knowledgeable, funny, and attentive, making the experience more engaging.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is ideal for wine lovers, casual or serious, who enjoy cycling and want to see the Bordeaux vineyards from a different perspective. It’s suitable for those who are comfortable on a bike, enjoy outdoor activities, and appreciate authentic local experiences.

If you prefer a more leisurely, less physical day or are traveling with younger children, this might not be the best fit—it’s geared toward those 12 and up, with a minimum height requirement.

Final Thoughts

The Saint Emilion Wine and Bike Tour offers a genuine, approachable way to explore one of France’s most beautiful wine regions. It combines scenic biking, exclusive tastings, and a delicious picnic in a manageable, well-organized package. The small-group setting and expert guides make it feel personal, not commercial.

While it’s not perfect for everyone—especially those with mobility limitations or very young kids—it hits the sweet spot for travelers seeking an active, authentic day in Bordeaux’s wine country. If you’re after a memorable mix of scenic views, great wine, and local flavor, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

Is this tour suitable for people who haven’t biked in a while?
Yes, the electric bikes make riding manageable even for those with limited cycling experience. Just ensure you’re comfortable on a bike and meet the minimum height requirement.

How many wineries will I visit?
You’ll visit at least two wineries with a minimum of six tastings—mainly reds, with some whites and rosés included.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Water is not included, so bring your own.

Is lunch included?
Yes, there’s a homemade French picnic served with regional cheeses and a glass of wine.

Can I request vegan or special dietary options?
They’re happy to accommodate dietary needs if informed at least 72 hours in advance, but vegan options cannot be guaranteed.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, creating a friendly, small-group vibe.

Are children under 12 allowed?
No, the tour is suitable for travelers aged 12 and above due to safety and cycling requirements.

Can I join if I don’t have much cycling experience?
Having sufficient cycling experience is required, but the e-bikes make it easier. If in doubt, contact the provider for guidance.

If you’re looking for an active, wine-focused day that combines scenic beauty with authentic tasting experiences, the Saint Emilion Wine and Bike Tour is a smart choice. It offers a good balance of fun, learning, and indulgence—perfect for those who want a little adventure alongside their wine.

You can check availability for your dates here: