Private ride in the vineyards from Saint-Emilion

Experience a Unique Ride in the Heart of Saint-Emilion’s Vineyards

Imagine cruising through the rolling vineyards of Saint-Emilion in a vintage sidecar, feeling the wind in your hair and soaking up panoramic views of world-famous châteaux. That’s exactly what this private tour offers—a 2.5-hour adventure that blends fun, exploration, and wine appreciation. Perfect for those seeking an unconventional way to discover Bordeaux’s renowned wine region, this experience promises authentic moments you’ll remember long after the ride ends.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of a playful vintage sidecar journey and a guided visit to the historic Couvent des Jacobins, including a wine tasting of exquisite Grand Cru Classé wines. We particularly love how personalized and flexible the experience is, with private guides who know the area intimately. On the flip side, it’s important to note that the sidecar accommodates just two people, so couples or small groups will find this ideal, but larger groups will need to look elsewhere.

This activity is best suited for adventurous couples, wine lovers, and those looking to add a dash of excitement to their Bordeaux trip. It’s also a fantastic choice for anyone craving a memorable photo-op or simply wanting to experience the vineyards in a genuinely original way. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or kids under three, but for everyone else, it offers a delightful blend of thrill and sophistication.

Key Points

• Unusual and fun way to explore vineyards in a vintage sidecar.
• Private guided experience with a knowledgeable local pilot.
• Includes wine tasting at a prestigious Château or estate.
• Flexible options: a quick 1-hour tour or a more in-depth 2.5-hour experience.
• Ideal for couples or small groups seeking personalized adventure.
• Limited capacity: sidecar for two, with the possibility to alternate during the ride.

The Details of the Tour: What to Expect

This experience kicks off right in the center of Saint-Emilion at the Couvent des Jacobins, a stunning medieval monastery that provides a picturesque starting point. From there, your private pilot-guide will give a brief safety briefing, load you into the vintage sidecar—one in the basket, one behind the guide—and you’re off.

The Ride through the Vineyards

The highlight of the tour is the ride itself. You’ll traverse narrow, winding paths that wind through some of the most iconic vineyards and castles in the region. Reviewers consistently mention the “breathtaking views” and the “sense of freedom” as a standout feature. One guest described the ride as “exhilarating and informative,” noting that the guide’s passion and knowledge enhanced the experience significantly.

The guide will point out magnificent castles and beautiful landscapes, making sure you get plenty of photo opportunities. There’s a mandatory photo stop along the route, which guests often say is perfect for capturing the moment and creating memorable keepsakes.

The Wine Tasting and Visits

Depending on the time of day and your preferred option, your tour will include either a 20-minute wine tasting at a Château or estate or a combined visit to the Couvent des Jacobins with a tasting of their 600-year-old wines. Reviewers highlight the “quality of the wines” and the informative nature of the tasting, with some describing it as their “best wine experience” in the region.

The Grand Cru Classé wines from the Couvent des Jacobins are praised for their depth and complexity, making the tasting a real highlight. The guide’s detailed explanations help even novice wine enthusiasts appreciate the nuances of Bordeaux wines.

Tour Options and Flexibility

You can choose between two options:
– Small Tour (1 hour): 40-45 minutes of sidecar riding plus a 15-20 minute tasting.
– Grand Tour (2.5 hours): 1.5 hours of riding, plus a visit and tasting at the Château or Couvent.

The flexibility allows you to tailor your experience based on your interests and time constraints, making it suitable whether you want a quick thrill or a more comprehensive adventure.

The Experience Provider: RETRO TOUR Bordeaux

The experience is delivered by RETRO TOUR Bordeaux, a company known for offering quirky, memorable ways to explore Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion. With private guides who speak both French and English, they ensure a personalized touch, making the ride feel like a fun and intimate discovery rather than a generic tour.

Authenticity and Value for Money

At $293 for a group of two, this activity is quite competitively priced considering the exclusivity and personalized nature of the experience. When you factor in the private guide, guided vineyard and château visits, and wine tasting, it’s easy to see the value. It’s especially appealing for couples or small groups wanting an original way to experience Bordeaux’s wine culture without the crowds.

Reviewers frequently mention how much they appreciated the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One said, “Lucio was fantastic—so friendly and full of fun facts,” highlighting how the guide’s personality adds to the enjoyment.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at 10 Rue Guadet, right in the lively heart of Saint-Emilion’s historic core. From there, your guide whisks you through the vineyards on a route that includes photo stops and guided explanations on the region’s famous castles and landscape.

One of the most praised aspects is the balance between adventure and education. The guide ensures you learn about the region’s history while keeping the ride light and entertaining.

The vineyard stop provides a chance to see the terroir up close, with the guide pointing out what makes Saint-Emilion’s soil unique. The winery visit and tasting offer a delicious conclusion to your journey, with guests noting the wines are superb and well-presented.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Clothing: Dress comfortably and consider layers, as the ride can be breezy.
• Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven paths.
• Timing: Tours run at various times; check availability and book ahead.
• Photos: Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the unbelievable scenery.
• Alternation: If you’re traveling with a partner, be prepared to switch seats during the ride.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, but check with the provider for specific needs.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women or children under 3.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you want a fun, intimate peek into Bordeaux’s vineyards combined with a memorable ride. It’s ideal for adventurous couples, photographers, and wine fans looking for an authentic, behind-the-scenes taste of the region. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline and want to avoid larger, more commercial tours.

If you’re after a relaxed, traditional wine tasting, you might prefer a more conventional tour. But if you want something unconventional and lively, this sidecar adventure could be your highlight in Saint-Emilion.

The Sum Up

This private sidecar tour offers an exceptional way to see Saint-Emilion’s stunning vineyards while adding a layer of fun and personal touch that’s hard to beat. The professional guides, combined with the breathtaking scenery and excellent wine tasting, make it a worthwhile choice for those looking to blend adventure with culture.

The experience is especially valuable for small groups or couples seeking a unique, Instagram-worthy adventure that goes beyond the usual wine tour. The price reflects the exclusivity and quality of the experience, and the positive reviews underscore its popularity.

This tour balances excitement, education, and indulgence—a true highlight for any Bordeaux itinerary.

FAQ

How many people can ride in the sidecar?
Each sidecar is designed for two people—one in the basket and one behind the guide. You can alternate during the ride if traveling with a partner.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are not recommended to join due to safety reasons.

Can children participate in this tour?
Children under 3 years are not suitable, but older kids might enjoy the ride if they are comfortable with it. Check with the provider if you have concerns.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private ride in a vintage sidecar, a private guide, and a wine tasting at a Château or estate, depending on the option chosen.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with options for a shorter 1-hour tour or the full 2.5-hour experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
All tours start and finish at 10 Rue Guadet in Saint-Emilion.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible. Confirm specific needs with the provider beforehand.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, in layers if needed, as the ride can be breezy. Wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven paths.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your preferred time and ensure availability.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

Experience the thrill of Saint-Emilion’s vineyards in a way you’ll never forget—fun, intimate, and full of stunning scenery. Ready for a ride that combines adrenaline, culture, and fantastic wine? This could be your perfect Bordeaux adventure.