France is a country that practically breathes culture, craftsmanship, and culinary excellence—making it a fantastic destination for those who want to learn something new while traveling. Whether you’re eager to ride the waves at Brittany’s iconic La Torche or master the art of wine tasting in Bordeaux, France offers a wide array of engaging workshops. We especially love the surf lessons at La Torche for their natural beauty and expert instruction, and the wine workshops at La Selve for their fun approach to blind tasting. These classes aren’t just about learning—they’re about enjoying local traditions and flavors.
If you’re planning a trip and want to pick up a new skill or deepen your appreciation for France’s renowned wine and spirits, this list offers some of the best options. From riding electric motorcycles through the Drome to assembling your own whiskey in Lorraine, you’ll find experiences suited to various interests and skill levels. Read on for detailed insights about each workshop and help decide which fits your travel style best.
Quick Overview: What You’ll Find on This List
This guide covers a variety of workshops and classes, including surfing in Brittany, wine tastings and oenological workshops in Bordeaux and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, electric motorcycle lessons in Drôme, and whiskey blending in Lorraine. Each experience showcases a different aspect of French culture: the ocean, vineyards, spirits, and motorized fun. Whether you’re a wine lover, an adventure seeker, or a curious beginner, there’s something here for you. To explore these options further, check the linked experiences for full details.
1. Surf lessons on the mythical site of La Torche
At number 1, we have surf lessons on the famous La Torche, a spot renowned for its consistent waves and stunning natural surroundings in Brittany. This experience is perfect if you’ve ever wanted to try surfing or improve your skills with experienced instructors. Kevin and Stephen, with over 15 years of teaching experience, will guide you through the basics or help refine your technique. The school is officially recognized by the French surfing federation, which adds credibility to their high standards.
The lesson takes place directly in front of the wave zones, allowing you to catch plenty of rides in just 2 hours. It’s suitable for all levels, and the natural setting makes every moment memorable. The reviews are excellent, with a 4.9/5 rating from 19 travelers, highlighting the friendly atmosphere and clear guidance. The price of $64 per person offers real value for a personalized experience. Expect a fun, active morning that leaves you with a newfound respect for surfing and Brittany’s rugged coast.
Bottom line: If you’re after a fun, beginner-friendly surf experience in a beautiful location, this lesson hits the mark. It’s great for active travelers who want to try something new in France.
2. Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classé: Visit & Tasting in English
Number 2 on our list is the Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classé: Visit & Tasting in English. This tour offers an authentic glimpse into Bordeaux’s famed wine country, with a focus on understanding the nuances of wine tasting. For just around $24, you’ll spend approximately an hour exploring a prestigious vineyard, learning how experts evaluate wine and uncovering what makes Bordeaux wines so special.
The highlight is the guided tasting of several wines from the region, with the chance to purchase bottles and even have them shipped home. The guide is described as “very sweet and informative,” making the experience accessible whether you’re new to wine or have some knowledge. This tour cuts through the complexity of wine with simple explanations, making it an ideal introduction for beginners. The 5-star reviews reflect its popularity among those eager to learn about Bordeaux wines without the fuss.
Bottom line: This experience is perfect for wine lovers who want a quick, engaging introduction to Bordeaux wines, with a friendly guide and the option to buy their favorites.
3. Private Electric Motorcycle Lessons in Drôme
Number 3 takes you into the world of electric motorcycle riding, an eco-friendly way to explore the scenic landscapes of Drôme. The 3-hour lesson is suitable for ages 18 to 75, making it accessible to most travelers with a basic level of good health and a zest for adventure. Your instructor will teach you how to handle this all-terrain electric motorcycle, which features simplified controls like only a front brake, rear brake, and an accelerator—no clutch needed.
What makes this experience unique is the chance to pass through places inaccessible by car, providing a true culture. You’ll learn about local traditions and products while riding in silence, appreciating the natural sights without engine noise. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5.0 rating from five travelers, emphasizing the friendliness of the instructor and the fun of riding an electric bike.
For $138.91, this activity offers a blend of adventure and environmental consciousness. It’s suitable for those wanting something active that still respects nature—perfect if you’re looking to combine excitement with a taste of local life.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in a novel, eco-friendly way to see rural France, this motorcycle lesson provides a memorable, hands-on experience.
4. Oenological workshops at La Selve
Number 4 on our list is the oenological workshop at Château de la Selve. This activity stands out because it involves a fun blind tasting, where wine is served in black glasses, challenging your senses to identify vintage, grape variety, and aging process. Led by winemakers with 20 years of experience, this workshop is both educational and entertaining.
Designed for groups of no more than 20, the 1.5-hour session offers a chance to guess wines’ details and learn from qualified professionals. The price of just over $11 makes it an affordable way to deepen your understanding of wine tasting. Participants often comment on the playful nature of the experience and the expertise of the hosts. It’s suitable for all levels, from novices to serious wine enthusiasts looking to sharpen their palates.
Bottom line: This workshop combines fun and learning, making it an ideal choice for those who want to test their senses and discover more about wine in a relaxed setting.
5. Workshop in Rozelieures Assemble your Whiskey
Number 5 features the whiskey blending workshop in Rozelieures, offering a taste of spirits craftsmanship. Over about 2.5 hours, you’ll tour the distillery and learn the secrets of whiskey production, from mashing to aging. What makes this experience special is the opportunity to blend your own whiskey, guided by experts, and then walk away with a personalized bottle.
Located in Lorraine, this activity is perfect for spirits lovers curious about the art of distilling and blending. The reviews are limited but highly positive, emphasizing the hands-on aspect and the quality of instruction. For $98.40, you get a comprehensive, interactive experience that combines education with a tangible souvenir—a bottle of your own creation.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in spirits or want a memorable, hands-on activity, this whiskey workshop offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the craft of distilling.
6. Verres-Tigineux workshop and tasting in Saint-Émilion
In sixth place is the Verres-Tigineux workshop and tasting in Saint-Émilion. This experience explores how the shape and size of wine glasses influence tasting. You’ll visit vineyards, learn about winemaking and aging, then participate in a fun workshop where you guess wine qualities based on the glass used.
The 2-hour session is ideal for wine enthusiasts of all levels and costs around $42. Even with only one review, it’s rated highly for its interactive and educational approach. The focus on glassware offers a different perspective on wine appreciation, making it both practical and enjoyable.
Bottom line: For those interested in the finer details of wine tasting, this workshop offers a playful and insightful experience that enhances your understanding of how presentation impacts flavor.
$41.71 per person
7. Ardèche: Wine workshop at Domaine les Amoureuses
Finally, the wine workshop in Ardèche provides a comprehensive look at winemaking, led by a passionate sommelier. Over three hours, you’ll learn to taste like a professional, exploring wines from amphorae, barrels, and vats to understand the aging process. The experience includes tasting 16 different wines and sampling local products, fostering a convivial atmosphere.
Priced at $105, this tour offers good value for a deep dive into winemaking techniques and tastings. Although reviews aren’t listed, the detailed focus on different aging vessels and professional guidance makes it ideal for serious wine enthusiasts and those wanting a thorough understanding of French winemaking.
Bottom line: If you want an immersive, educational experience exploring all facets of winemaking, this workshop delivers both knowledge and tasting pleasure.
$105 per person
How to Choose the Right Workshop in France
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and travel style. For active travelers wanting to try something new, the surf lessons at La Torche or the electric motorcycle tour in Drôme are excellent choices. If you’re more into food and drink, the wine tasting in Bordeaux, blind wine workshop at La Selve, or the winemaking workshop in Ardèche will satisfy your curiosity.
Budget is another factor; the oenological workshops at La Selve and Verres-Tigineux workshop are quite affordable, while personalized experiences like the whiskey blending offer a more comprehensive, hands-on approach at a higher price.
Timing and location also matter. For example, if you’re in Brittany, surfing is the natural choice, while Bordeaux-based travelers will enjoy wine-focused tours. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, as these popular experiences fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
France offers a wonderfully diverse range of workshops—from catching waves on Brittany’s coast to blending whiskey in Lorraine. For those eager to learn a new skill amid beautiful scenery, options like the surf lessons or electric motorcycle lessons stand out. Meanwhile, wine lovers should consider the rich offerings of Bordeaux, with engaging tastings and winemaking workshops that deepen your appreciation.
Whether you’re seeking physical activity, culinary mastery, or spirits expertise, these classes promise more than just a sightseeing trip—they offer a chance to connect with French culture through hands-on learning. Booking early is wise to secure your spot in these popular experiences. Whatever your interest, France’s workshops and classes are sure to add a memorable layer to your journey.