Saint-Emilion Day Tour: Food and Wine Escape

Nestled in the heart of Bordeaux’s renowned wine country, the Saint-Emilion Day Tour offers a chance to take in the region’s rich history and exceptional winemaking legacy. This carefully curated experience guides visitors through the UNESCO-protected medieval village, introducing them to the local culinary delights and the storied vineyards that have captivated oenophiles worldwide. From guided tours to private tastings, the tour promises an unparalleled exploration of Saint-Emilion’s charms, leaving one eager to uncover the depth of this enchanting destination.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Food Tours In Bordeaux.

Key Points

• Guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Saint-Emilion, exploring the charming medieval village and its winemaking heritage.
• Visits and tastings at three renowned local wineries, providing insights into the region’s terroir and winemaking traditions.
• Picnic-style lunch at a chateau, featuring local produce, charcuterie, cheese, and the chateau’s own wine.
• Small-group size (maximum 8 travelers) for a personalized experience.
• Convenient meeting point in Bordeaux and air-conditioned transportation.

Overview of the Tour

This small-group wine and food tour transports visitors on a delightful escape around the picturesque town of Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Guests will enjoy a guided tour of the charming village, exploring its historic architecture and learning about its rich winemaking heritage.

The experience also includes visits and tastings at three renowned local wineries, where travelers can sample the region’s world-famous wines.

To round out the day, a picnic lunch is served at a chateau, featuring fresh local fare, charcuterie, cheese, and a glass of wine.

With air-conditioned transportation and informative brochures, this tour offers an immersive and delectable introduction to the wonders of Saint-Emilion.

Inclusions and Highlights

The tour’s carefully curated inclusions provide visitors with an immersive and delightful experience of Saint-Emilion’s renowned food and wine offerings.

Guests will enjoy air-conditioned transportation to and from the meeting point, as well as a guided tour of the charming UNESCO-listed village to explore its historic architecture and winemaking heritage.

The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to visit and taste wines at three local wineries, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the region’s winemaking traditions.

Lunch is a picnic-style affair at a chateau, featuring fresh local produce, charcuterie, cheese, and a glass of the estate’s own vintage.

Informative brochures complete the package, ensuring travelers leave with a deeper appreciation for Saint-Emilion’s rich culinary and viticultural culture.

Meeting Point and Schedule

The tour commences at 2ter Rue Mably, 33000 Bordeaux, France, with a scheduled start time of 9:30 am.

Guests will be transported back to the same meeting point at the conclusion of the experience.

The tour lasts approximately 7-8 hours, allowing ample time to explore the picturesque Saint-Emilion village, visit three renowned wineries, and enjoy a delightful picnic lunch at a local château.

Participants should plan to arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early to ensure a prompt departure.

The tour’s convenient location near public transportation makes it easily accessible for those relying on alternative modes of transportation to reach the starting point.

Transportation and Accessibility

Guests are transported to and from the tour via an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the historic nature of the locations visited. This includes the guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Saint-Emilion village, which may involve navigating cobblestone streets and uneven terrain. Plus, the wineries and chateau visited may not have full accessibility.

While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, it’s conveniently located near public transportation options, allowing guests to explore the area further if desired.

The small-group size of 8 travelers maximum ensures a personalized experience throughout the day’s activities.

Confirmation and Cancellation

Customers receive confirmation of their booking immediately upon completing the reservation.

Travelers may cancel their tour up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled start time without incurring any penalties, ensuring flexibility in planning their Bordeaux getaway. This liberal cancellation policy allows guests to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if necessary.

With the lowest price guarantee, customers can rest assured they’re getting the best value for their money.

The tour’s small group size of up to 8 participants also contributes to a personalized and intimate experience, making it an ideal choice for wine enthusiasts seeking a memorable exploration of Saint-Emilion’s rich culinary and viticultural heritage.

Winery Visits and Tastings

During the tour, guests experience a delightful exploration of three renowned wineries, each offering a unique opportunity to savor the renowned vintages of the Saint-Emilion appellation.

At the first winery, they’ll learn about the estate’s history and production methods as they sample the local Merlot and Cabernet Franc blends.

The second stop takes them to a family-owned chateau, where they’ll discover the nuances of the region’s terroir and enjoy a tasting of the estate’s signature wines.

The final winery visit showcases the area’s winemaking traditions, allowing guests to appreciate the artistry and expertise behind each bottle.

These immersive experiences provide a comprehensive understanding of the Saint-Emilion wine region’s rich heritage and exceptional quality.

Saint-Emilion Village Exploration

After exploring the renowned wineries of the Saint-Emilion appellation, the tour takes visitors on a guided exploration of the historic Saint-Emilion village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich winemaking history.

The guided tour leads guests through the charming streets and squares, highlighting the village’s key landmarks, such as the impressive Collegiate Church and the iconic Saint-Emilion Monolithic Church, one of the largest underground churches in Europe.

Along the way, travelers will learn about the village’s winemaking traditions and its role in shaping the Bordeaux wine region. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the cultural and historical significance of this picturesque French town.

Picnic Lunch at a Chateau

Following the exploration of Saint-Emilion’s historic village, the tour transitions to a delightful picnic lunch at a nearby chateau, providing participants with an immersive experience into the region’s renowned gastronomic and wine culture.

At the chateau, guests are treated to a spread of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, including a selection of charcuterie, artisanal cheeses, and a glass of the chateau’s own wine.

The picnic setting allows for a leisurely and relaxed dining experience, where visitors can savor the flavors of the region while surrounded by the beauty of the chateau’s grounds.

This unique culinary interlude perfectly complements the wine tastings, offering a well-rounded exploration of Saint-Emilion’s gastronomic delights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Options Available for the Picnic Lunch?

The tour offers vegetarian and vegan options for the picnic lunch. Travelers can request these alternatives when booking the experience, ensuring their dietary needs are accommodated during the chateau picnic.

Can I Bring My Own Wine to the Tastings?

Bringing your own wine to the tastings is generally not allowed. The tour includes visits and tastings at 3 wineries, where the wineries provide the wine samples. Bringing outside wine could disrupt the planned tasting experience.

How Long Is the Drive From Bordeaux to Saint-Emilion?

The drive from Bordeaux to Saint-Emilion takes approximately 30 minutes. This scenic journey through the vineyards of the Bordeaux region allows travelers to fully enjoy the local wine culture before arriving at the historic village.

Can I Take Photos During the Winery Visits?

Yes, visitors are typically allowed to take photos during the winery visits. However, it’s always best to ask permission first and respect any restrictions the wineries may have in place regarding photography.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is typically no formal dress code for this type of wine tour. However, visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Dressing in layers is recommended to ensure comfort during the winery visits and outdoor activities.

Recap

The Saint-Emilion Day Tour provides a captivating exploration of the renowned wine region.

Visitors will enjoy the medieval charm of the village, indulge in tastings at local wineries, and savor a picnic lunch at a chateau, all while experiencing the rich history and winemaking traditions that make this UNESCO site a true gem of Bordeaux.