Bordeaux: St. Emilion Day Trip with Wine Tasting and Lunch

This Bordeaux day tour promises a well-rounded taste of France’s celebrated wine country combined with charming scenery and authentic experiences. With visits to two wineries, multiple tastings, and a stroll through the UNESCO-listed village of Saint Emilion, it caters to those who love good wine and scenic views. The tour is efficient, well-organized, and offers a chance to learn about viticulture from passionate guides.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the small group size, which keeps things intimate and personal, making conversations with guides and winery hosts more relaxed. Plus, the inclusion of a picnic lunch at a château with wine adds a lovely, authentic touch. On the downside, the entire day lasts about 7 hours, so it’s a bit of a commitment—something to consider if you prefer a more leisurely pace or are traveling with very young children. This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive, engaging introduction to Saint Emilion’s wines and village charm.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience with knowledgeable guides who share insightful details
• Two wine estates visited with tastings of up to ten regional wines
• Picturesque stroll through the medieval, UNESCO-listed town of Saint Emilion
• Delicious picnic lunch paired with local wines at a château
• Small group format limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience
• Value for money considering the included tastings, transportation, and lunch

An In-Depth Look at the Saint Emilion Day Trip

Convenient and Comfortable Transportation

Starting at 26 Rue de la Devise in Bordeaux, the tour offers round-trip transportation in a comfortable minibus, which is a huge plus for those not wanting to navigate the region on their own. The drive to Saint Emilion takes about 45 minutes, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenic countryside that separates Bordeaux from this historic village.

Travelers consistently mention that the transportation is smooth and well-organized, with some reviews noting guides like Taylor, Julie, or Daniela—each praised for their friendliness and knowledge. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a cozy atmosphere, fostering easier conversations and a more tailored experience.

Visit to the First Winery: A Guided Tour and Tasting

The journey begins with a visit to the first winery, where a guided tour introduces you to the winemaking process. These visits tend to last around two hours, covering both the vineyards and the cellar, and are led by passionate hosts eager to share their craft.

Guests have appreciated the generosity of the wineries’ hosts—they often spend extra time answering questions and pouring generous samples. You’ll taste up to ten wines over the course of the day, with three main tasting sessions. Many reviews highlight the diversity of wines sampled, from classic Bordeaux blends to more distinctive regional varieties.

One reviewer from Australia notes, “Dante was an excellent guide and the venues were very generous with their time and wine.” This tells us that the wineries are welcoming and eager to educate, which makes the tasting sessions more meaningful and less rushed.

The Picnic Lunch: Savoring Food and Wine

After the first tasting, you’ll enjoy a delicious picnic lunch at the château. This isn’t just a grab-and-go affair; it’s a thoughtfully prepared meal featuring cheese, bread, and charcuterie, paired with a glass of wine. Guests consistently praise the lunch as a highlight, describing it as “delicious” and a perfect way to unwind.

Some reviews mention that the lunch is set in a beautiful setting, allowing you to soak in the vineyard views while savoring regional flavors. The included wine enhances the experience, giving you a true taste of local terroir.

The Second Winery and More Tastings

Post-lunch, your journey continues with a second winery visit. These tours tend to be shorter (about an hour) but still rich in insights and tastings. Guests note that the wineries are stunning and unique, offering contrasting atmospheres—some more modern, others more historic.

Another tasting session here adds to the total of ten wines sampled during the day, with some reviews emphasizing how varied and high-quality the wines are. The hosts are described as knowledgeable, and many guests appreciate their willingness to share stories and expertise.

Exploring Saint Emilion Village

The final highlight of the day is a guided walk through Saint Emilion itself, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its medieval charm and cobbled streets. The tour typically lasts around 1.5 hours, during which guides provide insights into the town’s history, architecture, and viticultural significance.

Reviewers like Marta from Portugal mention that the village’s “medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and picturesque scenery” make it a delightful place to explore. There’s also an opportunity for another wine-tasting session in a wine shop, often a favorite for those wanting to try some further regional wines or buy souvenirs.

Return to Bordeaux

The day wraps up with a 45-minute return drive back to Bordeaux, arriving in the late evening. This allows you to reflect on a full day of wine, history, and scenic beauty. Many travelers mention that the organization of the trip was seamless, and the guides kept everyone engaged and informed throughout.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $211 per person, this experience includes transportation, two winery visits with tastings, a hearty picnic lunch, and a guided walk in Saint Emilion. Considering the number of wines tasted—up to ten—and the intimate group size, many think this is a worthwhile investment for those wanting to learn about Bordeaux wines in a relaxed setting.

Guests often remark on the quality of the guides, citing names like Julie, Daniela, and Maud as especially engaging and knowledgeable. This personal touch makes a difference when trying to grasp regional nuances or asking questions about the winemaking process.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone wanting to experience a scenic part of France with good company, this trip checks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group settings and want a blend of education, tasting, and picturesque exploration.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children or prefer a slower, more relaxed pace, you might find the full 7-hour commitment a bit intense. Also, the tour is not suitable for children under 16, so it’s better for adult groups.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening.

What is included in the price?
Included are round-trip transportation, a guide, visits to two wineries, wine tastings at both, and a picnic lunch paired with wine.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
Yes, the tour can be canceled if there are fewer than 2 participants, but most reviews suggest this rarely happens.

Can I taste more than ten wines?
The tour features up to ten wines across three tasting sessions, which is quite generous for a day trip.

Are the wineries modern or historic?
Guests note that the wineries are diverse—some are stunning historic chateaux, others are more contemporary—offering a good balance of styles.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as you’ll be walking through town and possibly outside.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 16 years old.

Final Thoughts

This Bordeaux Saint Emilion day trip offers an authentic and well-rounded glimpse into the region’s famed wines and picturesque village life. The combination of guided winery visits, generous tastings, and a charming town walk makes it a fantastic choice for wine lovers and curious travelers alike. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of a picnic lunch adds a genuine French touch.

While the full-day schedule demands a bit of energy, many reviews confirm it’s a truly worthwhile experience. If you’re keen to explore Bordeaux’s wine region with expert guides, visit stunning vineyards, and stroll through a medieval village, this tour delivers on all fronts—creating memorable moments and, hopefully, a new appreciation for French wine.

This experience is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, engaging introduction to Saint Emilion’s wines and history, especially if you value small group intimacy, quality tastings, and authentic regional charm.