Full-Day Tour to Saint-Emilion and Medoc, From Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a renowned wine region, and exploring its prestigious appellations like Saint-Emilion and Médoc is a must for oenophiles. This full-day tour from Bordeaux offers a chance to take in these storied landscapes, savor exceptional grand cru wines, and enjoy a picnic lunch featuring local Basque delicacies. With guided visits to UNESCO-listed Saint-Emilion and three renowned wineries in Médoc, it’s an opportunity to uncover the region’s rich winemaking heritage. But the true highlight might just be…

Key Points

• This full-day guided tour from Bordeaux explores the UNESCO-listed village of Saint-Emilion and three wineries in the Médoc region, offering wine tastings and a picnic lunch.
• The tour includes a walking tour of Saint-Emilion and tastings of grand cru classé wines at three Médoc wineries, providing a comprehensive wine-tasting experience.
• Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable driver/tour guide, ensuring a comfortable and informative journey.
• The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• With a 95% recommendation rate and an average rating of 4.8 stars, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and the enjoyable and educational aspects of the experience.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day guided small-group tour from Bordeaux takes visitors to explore two classic Bordeaux appellations: Margaux and Saint-Emilion.

The morning begins with a walking tour of the UNESCO-listed village of Saint-Emilion, including a grand cru tasting.

In the afternoon, travelers visit three different wineries in the Médoc region, sampling grand cru classé wines. A picnic lunch with local Basque charcuterie, cheese, and wine is provided.

The tour also includes a photo stop at the famous Château Margaux.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour offers personalized attention throughout.

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes 8 glasses of wine tastings across the three wineries visited, as well as a guided tour of the Saint-Emilion village.

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable driver/tour guide.

The meeting point is Olala Bordeaux, 2 ter Rue Mably, Bordeaux, and the tour returns to the same location.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 16 or pets, and private tours are recommended for families.

Confirmation is received upon booking, and the tour operates in all weather conditions.

Traveler Experience and Feedback

What do travelers have to say about this tour? With 288 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, it seems travelers thoroughly enjoy this experience.

The tour boasts an impressive 4.8-star average rating, with guests praising the knowledgeable guides and the enjoyable, educational aspects of the tour. Visitors highlight the quality of the wine tastings and the charm of the Saint-Emilion village.

Guides are consistently recognized for their expertise in wine and engaging personalities, making the tour an informative and delightful experience for all.

Tour Conditions and Recommendations

As the tour operates in all weather conditions, confirmation is received upon booking. Travelers are encouraged to arrive 10 minutes early, as no delays are permitted. To reduce plastic waste, bringing a water bottle is recommended. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, so appropriate dress is advised.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, and the tour pricing starts from $181.28 per person.

Partner Wineries and Additional Information

Partner wineries in Saint-Emilion include Château Grangey, Château Palais Cardinal, and Château Bernateau, among others.

In Médoc, travelers will visit Château Siran, Château Dauzac, and Château Paveil de Luze.

Though the schedule and châteaux may vary, the quality remains consistent.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so appropriate dress is advised. Guests are encouraged to bring a water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, which is priced from $181.28 per person.

Exploring the Appellation of Saint-Emilion

The charming medieval village of Saint-Emilion is the heart of one of Bordeaux’s most renowned wine appellations.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its narrow cobblestone streets and historic monuments create a captivating ambiance.

The guided walking tour explores the village’s highlights, including the impressive 11th-century Monolithic Church carved into a limestone cliff.

Visitors also enjoy a tasting of the appellation’s grand cru wines, known for their rich, complex flavors.

With its picturesque beauty and premier wines, Saint-Emilion offers an authentic glimpse into Bordeaux’s winemaking heritage.

Tasting Experiences in the Médoc Region

After exploring the charming village of Saint-Emilion, the tour moves on to the renowned Médoc region, home to some of Bordeaux’s most prestigious wineries.

Visitors will enjoy tastings at three different châteaux, each showcasing the unique terroir and exceptional grand cru classé wines of the Médoc.

The guided tour provides insights into the winemaking process and the history of these iconic estates.

A highlight is the photo stop at the famous Château Margaux, one of the most celebrated wines in the world.

The afternoon promises an immersive and educational experience in this renowned wine-producing appellation.

Discovering the Iconic Château Margaux

As the tour winds its way through the picturesque Médoc region, one of the highlights is the photo stop at the iconic Château Margaux.

This legendary First Growth estate is renowned for producing some of the finest and most expensive wines in the world. Travelers can admire the elegant château and its expansive vineyards, capturing stunning panoramic views.

The photo opportunity allows guests to appreciate the scale and grandeur of this prestigious property, which has been a benchmark for Bordeaux winemaking for centuries.

This brief stop provides a memorable glimpse into the Médoc’s most prestigious appellation.

Since You Asked

What Is the Average Duration of the Tour?

The tour is a full-day guided experience, lasting approximately 8-9 hours. It includes a walking tour of Saint-Emilion, three winery visits, and a picnic lunch, providing a comprehensive exploration of the renowned Bordeaux wine region.

Are Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on the Tour?

The tour accommodates dietary restrictions upon request. Travelers with special dietary needs can notify the tour operator in advance, and the guides will work to ensure their requirements are met during the picnic lunch.

Can I Request a Private Tour for My Group?

Yes, private tours are available for groups. The tour operator can accommodate private bookings and tailor the experience to your group’s needs and preferences.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

Yes, you can extend the tour or add additional activities. The tour operator offers optional add-ons like a Bordeaux city tour, wine and cheese pairing class, or private tastings at exclusive chateaux. Just let them know your preferences when booking.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Items or Equipment for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t require any specialized equipment, but it’s recommended to bring a water bottle. Comfortable walking shoes are advised, as there’ll be a guided tour of the Saint-Emilion village. No other specific items are needed for this tour.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Bordeaux offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich wine heritage of Saint-Emilion and Médoc. Visitors can expect a captivating guided walk through the UNESCO-listed town, exclusive grand cru wine tastings, and visits to prestigious châteaux, all complemented by a delectable picnic lunch. With personalized attention in a small group setting, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts seeking to discover the exceptional flavors and charm of these renowned French wine regions.