Food lovers will find some of France’s best lunch experiences in sunny Montpellier. The standout options combine local specialties with wine and scenery – exactly what brings travelers to the South of France. I especially love the full-day wine and olive tour with its leisurely 3-course lunch – it hits all the right notes of a perfect Mediterranean afternoon. The half-day oyster experience at Etang de Thau lake is another winner, offering the freshest seafood imaginable in a stunning waterfront setting. For food and wine enthusiasts, don’t miss the excellent half-day tour that packs in two wineries and an oyster farm, complete with regional tastings.
Let’s look at our favorite lunch tours in Montpellier.
Key Points
- The Pic Saint Loup Wine Tour offers a 3-course lunch menu featuring a gazpacho starter, fish of the day, and chocolate cake.
- The Etang de Thau Lake Excursion provides a unique opportunity to savor freshly harvested oysters at the pond’s edge.
- The Half-Day Wine Tour includes a tasting plate of oysters and mussels paired with the local picpoul de pinet wine.
- All tours offer round-trip transportation and emphasize the local culture, nature, and culinary delights of the Montpellier region.
- Guests can enjoy personalized and flexible experiences, with cancellations accepted up to 24 hours in advance and hotel/accommodation pickups included.
Private Full Day Pic Saint Loup Wine and Olive Tour With Lunch From Montpellier
For those seeking a delightful day exploring the renowned Pic Saint Loup wine region just outside Montpellier, this private full-day tour provides an exceptional opportunity.
Priced at $452.38 per person, the tour includes round-trip travel from central Montpellier in an air-conditioned minivan, a guided tour, and a 3-course lunch featuring a summer gazpacho starter, a main course of fish of the day with roasted potatoes and market vegetables, and a chocolate cake dessert.
Tastings are included, and hotel or accommodation pickups are available. The tour is a private experience, with only your group participating.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. The minimum drinking age is 18, and the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers, though most travelers can participate.
Flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies up to 24 hours in advance make this tour a convenient option for visitors to Montpellier seeking a memorable wine and culinary experience in the Pic Saint Loup region.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Pic Saint Loup Wine and Olive Tour With Lunch From Montpellier Review
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Montpellier: Half-Day Trip to Etang De Thau Lake With Lunch
Discover the captivating Etang de Thau Lake, just a short half-day trip from Montpellier. This 5-hour excursion offers a delightful blend of nature, culture, and fresh seafood.
Board a local fisherman’s boat for a 3.5-hour ride across the tranquil lake, where you’ll visit an oyster farm and learn directly from the farmer about the production process. Indulge in freshly harvested oysters at the pond’s edge, savoring the fruits of the region.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Montpellier, a tasty lunch, and all necessary amenities like water bottles, beach towels, and the boat trip.
With a limited group size of 7 participants, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience guided by French and English-speaking experts. Just note that the activity may be canceled in poor weather conditions and isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or young children.
Prepare for a delightful day with sunglasses, a hat, and sun protection, and get ready to learn about the natural beauty of Etang de Thau Lake.
Read our full review: Montpellier: Half-Day Trip to Etang De Thau Lake With Lunch Review
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Montpellier: Half-Day Wine Tour With Lunch
Travelers can embark on a captivating half-day wine tour in Montpellier, exploring the local vineyards and savoring a delectable lunch. Priced at $153.24 per person, this 4-hour tour offers guided visits to two wine estates and an oyster farm, as well as an oyster tasting at the Thau basin.
Along the way, you will learn about grape cultivation, fermentation, and wine tasting, with an optional “Challenge Your Senses” game at Domaine d’Hondrat.
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at Place de l’Europe, a lunch featuring a tasting plate of oysters and mussels paired with local picpoul de pinet white wine, and water bottles, beach towels, and wine tasting. Participants can also take advantage of personal shopping opportunities.
With an overall rating of 5/5 based on traveler reviews, the tour is highly recommended for food and wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic French experience, particularly for groups, couples, and individuals interested in local producers and culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Montpellier: Half-Day Wine Tour With Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Types of Dietary Accommodations Are Available on These Tours?
Many lunch tours offer dietary accommodations such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to cater to a variety of dietary needs. Customers should inquire about specific offerings when booking to ensure their preferences can be accommodated.
Can Children Participate in the Wine Tasting Activities?
Children can’t participate in the wine tasting activities, as they’re restricted to adults only. However, many tours offer alternative activities for kids, like visiting local markets or exploring historical sites, so they can still enjoy the experience.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From Montpellier?
The tours generally do not include transportation to and from Montpellier. Participants are typically responsible for arranging their own transportation to the starting location of the tour. Some tour companies may offer optional add-on transportation services for an additional fee.
What Is the Average Group Size for These Lunch Experiences?
The average group size for these lunch experiences typically ranges from 8 to 12 people. This allows for a more intimate and interactive dining experience while still providing a social atmosphere.
Are the Tours Suitable for Guests With Mobility Issues?
The tours are generally suitable for guests with mobility issues, though some activities may have accessibility challenges. It’s best to inquire about specific accommodations when booking to ensure the experience meets the guest’s needs.
Recap
Montpellier offers a range of exceptional lunch experiences. Visitors can enjoy a private wine and olive tour with a delightful lunch or explore the Étang de Thau Lake and sample local cuisine. For wine enthusiasts, a half-day wine tour with a gourmet lunch is a must-try. These options provide a well-rounded culinary adventure in the heart of Montpellier.