Visit Saint-Emilion and Pomerol:Vineyards, lunch and tastings included

Exploring Bordeaux’s Wine Gems: A Detailed Look at the Saint-Emilion and Pomerol Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Bordeaux and wine tasting is on your list, chances are you’ll come across various options for visiting Saint-Emilion and Pomerol. One highly-rated tour, offered by Entre Vides Bordeaux, promises an intimate, well-organized experience that combines history, stunning scenery, and flavorful wines. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve looked into what makes it stand out — and it does seem to offer quite a bit for the price.

What really caught my eye are the personalized small-group setting—limiting the group to just eight travelers—and how much is packed into just six hours. Plus, the chance to explore historic cellars dating back to 1855 and enjoy an included picnic makes this feel like a well-thought-out adventure. On the flip side, the only potential concern might be the pace, especially if you’re not used to back-to-back activities. But overall, this tour seems perfect for those who want a deep dive into Bordeaux’s wine culture without the crowds or generic bus experience.

This tour is particularly suited for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and travelers seeking an authentic, educational experience. If you prefer more relaxed, leisurely days or aren’t keen on structured tours, you might want to consider other options. But for anyone eager to combine storytelling, tasting, and scenic beauty in a compact day, this could be just right.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy lends itself to personalized attention and more meaningful interactions.
• Expert guides share fascinating stories, making wine tasting educational and engaging.
• Visit historic cellars and vineyards that date back over a century, adding depth to your experience.
• Includes a delicious picnic lunch amid vineyard scenery, enhancing the day’s enjoyment.
• Exclusive tastings at select wineries and a final visit in Pomerol or Saint-Emilion provide variety.
• Convenient transportation from Bordeaux ensures comfort and time efficiency.

A Closer Look at What This Tour Offers

If you’re like most travelers curious about Bordeaux’s iconic wine regions, you’ll appreciate the thoughtfully curated itinerary. It’s designed to give you a balanced experience—blending history, tasting, and local charm—all within about six hours.

The Meeting Point and Start Time

The tour begins at 6 All. de Tourny, Bordeaux, with a start time of 9:30am. This central location makes it easy to reach, especially if you’re staying in Bordeaux city. The tour wraps back at the same spot, so you don’t have to worry about logistical hassle after a full day.

The Transport and Group Size

Transportation is via private, air-conditioned vehicle, which means comfort and efficiency. With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’re more likely to get personalized attention and ask questions. Smaller groups often lead to a more relaxed atmosphere and easier access to guides’ insights.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Saint-Emilion (about 1 hour)

The journey kicks off with an exploration of this charming medieval village, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The guide’s narrative promises to unveil secrets and notable legends about the town, making the history come alive. Expect to walk cobbled streets, admire the historic architecture, and soak in the old-world charm.

Second Stop: Wine Tasting in a Select Shop (about 1 hour)

Here, you’ll explore different grape varieties, learning how various wines are crafted from the same region. The reviews mention that guides are knowledgeable, which adds value—Irene raves about Paola’s expertise, calling her “the perfect guide” whose knowledge was “quite an education.” You’ll get to taste multiple wines in a relaxed setting, perfect for wine lovers eager to understand regional differences.

Third Stop: Vineyard Visit and Tasting (about 1 hour)

Visiting a working vineyard allows you to see the winemaking process firsthand. You’ll learn about the art of wine production while enjoying a tasting directly in the vineyard. This authentic experience stands out because it offers insight into how wines are made, not just tasted.

Fourth Stop: A Picnic at a Château (about 1 hour)

An included picnic, set in the vineyard or château grounds (depending on the day), rounds off the morning. The reviews highlight that the picnic lunch is “amazing,” turning what could be a simple meal into a memorable part of the day. The ambiance adds a touch of elegance and relaxation.

Final Stop: Pomerol or Saint-Emilion Winery (about 1 hour)

To finish, you’ll visit another winery—either in Pomerol or Saint-Emilion—depending on the day. Expect a comprehensive tour and tastings of carefully selected wines. This final visit is praised for the quality of the wines and the guide’s detailed explanations.

What’s Included and What You Should Budget for

The price of $174.53 per person reflects a lot of what’s on offer: private transportation, an expert guide, tastings at multiple locations, a picnic lunch, and bottled water. This is quite reasonable considering the personalized nature of the tour and the number of exclusive visits packed into a day.

Tips are not included, so if you appreciate good service, plan to tip accordingly. The tour’s flexibility is noteworthy — if you need to cancel more than 24 hours in advance, you’ll get a full refund, which adds peace of mind.

What Our Reviewers Say

The glowing reviews are telling. Irene describes the day as “perfect from pick-up to drop-off” and especially praises Paola’s knowledge and friendliness. Sharon echoes this, calling the experience “fantastic” and “excellent value for money.” Several reviewers mention how attentive and helpful Paola was, not just as a guide but as someone who genuinely enriched the experience.

Miguel notes that Paola’s attention and kindness made the tour memorable, emphasizing her expertise in wines. The consistent praise for guides suggests that the human element — the storytelling, answering questions, and sharing anecdotes — makes a big difference.

Potential Downsides

The one detail to keep in mind is the pace. Since the schedule is quite packed, it might feel rushed if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed, unhurried experience. Also, the picnic lunch, while highly praised, might not suit all tastes—some reviews suggest it could be better, but the storytelling and wine tasting more than make up for it.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to expand their knowledge in a small-group setting. If you love history, picturesque villages, and authentic vineyard visits, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal if you want a fuller picture of Bordeaux’s wine scene without doing the planning yourself.

However, if you prefer unstructured days or travel with very young children, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s focus on walking, tasting, and visiting multiple sites requires a certain level of interest in wine and history.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, educational, and visually stunning experience that makes the most of a single day in Bordeaux’s legendary wine country. From the historic streets of Saint-Emilion to the exclusive tastings and vineyard visits, it promises a memorable journey for those drawn to the art of winemaking.

The personalized guides, thoughtful itinerary, and inclusions like lunch and transportation make it a high-value option. While it’s a bit of a busy day, the reviews make it clear that the experience is rewarding and worth the effort. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply curious about Bordeaux’s wine heritage, this tour has plenty to offer.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking through cobbled streets and vineyard visits, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues. It’s best to check directly with the provider for specific accommodations.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, which creates a more intimate experience and allows for personalized attention from the guide.

What’s the start and end point?
The tour begins and ends at 6 All. de Tourny, Bordeaux. It’s centrally located and easy to reach by public transportation.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:30am and returning to the original meeting point.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch picnic is included, providing a relaxed dining experience amid vineyard views.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. This gives flexibility for changing plans.

Is there an age restriction?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned. It’s designed for adults interested in wine and history.

How much should I tip?
Tips are not included, so if you feel the guide did a great job, a small tip would be appreciated. The amount depends on your satisfaction.

In all, this tour offers a fantastic way to experience Bordeaux’s famed wine regions in a manner that combines learning, scenic beauty, and excellent company. If you’re after a comprehensive, engaging, and well-organized day, it’s definitely worth considering.