Saumur is one of the most charming towns in the Loire Valley, famous for its sparkling wines, historic architecture, and scenic landscapes. What makes Saumur especially appealing for wine lovers is its combination of accessible vineyards, intriguing history, and the chance to enjoy the countryside at a relaxed pace. One of our favorite ways to explore is on a bike, especially an e-bike, which allows you to cover more ground without breaking a sweat. The E-bike Cycling and Wine in Saumur tour offers a delightful mix of cycling, tasting, and sightseeing, and is a great way to get a feel for the region’s authentic charm.
Another popular option is the From Saumur: Loire Valley Private 2-Day Wine Cycling Trip, which combines multiple days of cycling with visits to renowned vineyards and castles. For a more relaxed, historical experience, the Doué la Fontaine: historical tour of the town with wine tasting provides a leisurely stroll through the town’s past along with private tastings, perfect for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the top wine tours in Saumur. Each offers a unique way to experience the Loire’s celebrated wines and landscapes—whether you’re after a quick half-day, a multi-day adventure, or an educational town walk.
1. E-bike Cycling and Wine in Saumur France
For around $156.41 per person, this 5 to 6-hour tour offers a relaxed, scenic ride along the Loire River, perfect for those who want to combine gentle cycling with wine tasting. The tour starts with a visit to Gratien et Meyer, an iconic sparkling wine house housed in an Art Deco building overlooking the Loire. Here, you can taste their celebrated “Fizz” and purchase a bottle if you wish. The guide shares insights into the region’s sparkling wine production, which is a standout feature of Saumur’s wine scene.
The ride continues to Chateau de Targe, one of the oldest vineyards in the Loire, where Edouard, the owner, shares stories of his family’s heritage and shows remnants of the region’s oldest wine press. After a picnic lunch nearby, the tour takes you to Our Lady of Ardilliers, a church built on a site of a miracle, with a story that predates Lourdes and adds a spiritual dimension to your experience.
What makes this tour particularly appealing? The combination of cycling, local history, and authentic tastings. The small group size and flexible pace make it ideal for travelers who enjoy a leisurely but active day. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide and the chance to explore off the beaten path, making it a top choice for an immersive Saumur experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for those seeking a mix of gentle exercise, local history, and top-quality sparkling wines in a small-group setting.
2. From Saumur: Loire Valley Private 2-Day Wine Cycling Trip
At $995 per person, this two-day adventure is for serious wine enthusiasts and active travelers ready for a deeper dive into the Loire Valley. It’s rated 5/5 based on one review, reflecting its quality and comprehensive itinerary. This trip takes you through Chinon and Candes Saint Martin, riding along riverbanks, through lush vineyards, and past historic castles and abbeys.
The tour includes visits to several wineries, where you’ll interact directly with winemakers and learn about their techniques—an aspect that sets this trip apart. You’ll taste a variety of wines, from crisp whites to robust reds, paired with local foods. The itinerary also takes in scenic spots and charming villages, making it a relaxed yet enriching experience.
The tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine cycling, cultural sightseeing, and wine tasting over multiple days. The guides’ expertise and the chance to explore lesser-known areas of the Loire make this a memorable, in-depth experience. It’s ideal if you have some cycling experience and a full weekend to dedicate to exploring Saumur and its surroundings.
Bottom Line: This private, multi-day trip offers the best of the Loire’s wines, landscapes, and history, ideal for dedicated wine lovers and active explorers craving a more comprehensive experience.
3. Doué la Fontaine: historical tour of the town with wine tasting
For about 3 hours, this historical tour offers a gentle walk through the charming town of Doué-la-Fontaine, combined with a private wine cellar visit. Led by guide Louis Langlois, you’ll explore the town’s rich past at a relaxed pace, discovering its unique architecture and stories behind its notable sites.
The tour includes a private wine cellar visit, giving you exclusive insight into local winemaking traditions. You’ll taste wines produced in the region, gaining a better understanding of the area’s viticulture heritage. This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a dose of history with their wine, without the physical exertion of long cycling days.
While this tour doesn’t focus solely on Saumur’s sparkling wines, it offers a taste of the broader Pays de la Loire wine scene and local culture. The two starting location options (Doué-la-Fontaine or Saumur) and the small group size ensure a personalized experience. Reviewers appreciate the leisurely pace and intimate setting.
Bottom Line: This tour suits history enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed, informative wine experience in a historic town setting.
How to Choose Your Perfect Saumur Wine Tour
Deciding between these options depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re after a short, scenic bike ride with tastings, the E-bike Cycling and Wine in Saumur is a fantastic pick, especially for those looking for an active outdoor day. For a more immersive, multi-day adventure, the Loire Valley Private 2-Day Wine Cycling Trip offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s wines, castles, and villages.
If your interest leans towards local history and a relaxed town walk, the historical town tour in Doué-la-Fontaine provides a quiet, educational break from more active pursuits. Budget-wise, the half-day options provide good value, while the multi-day trip is suited for dedicated wine lovers willing to invest more time and money.
In general, bookings should be made early, especially for the multi-day trip, to secure your spot. The best times to go are spring and early fall, when the weather is ideal for cycling and outdoor tastings.
Final Thoughts
Saumur offers a variety of ways to enjoy its famous wines—whether you prefer a short, scenic e-bike ride, an extensive multi-day cycling tour, or a relaxed historical stroll. For active travelers, the E-bike Cycling and Wine tour is a lively, informative choice. For those wanting a deep dive into the region’s wine and castles, the 2-day cycling trip is hard to beat. And if you’re after a gentle, cultural experience, the town tour in Doué-la-Fontaine provides a charming taste of local life and wine.
No matter which option suits you, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these excellent experiences. Saumur’s wines are worth savoring, and with these tours, you’ll gain a richer appreciation for their stories and flavors. Cheers to a memorable wine adventure in the Loire Valley!
