Bordeaux Full Day Wine and Bike Tour

Bordeaux Full Day Wine and Bike Tour combines the joy of cycling through some of France’s most celebrated vineyards with the charm of Saint-Emilion’s medieval streets. For about 8.5 hours, you’ll be led by a knowledgeable guide in a small group, riding electric bikes through picturesque countryside, stopping at two distinguished wineries for tastings, and enjoying a gourmet picnic lunch with a glass of local wine. All of this for around $183, making it a well-priced way to taste and see one of France’s premier wine regions.

What we love about this experience is first, the balanced combination of biking and wine — it’s active without being exhausting, and the scenery is simply stunning. Second, the personalized touch of small group sizes ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd. A third point worth noting is the authenticity of the tastings—visit family-owned estates and a chateau, not just big commercial wineries.

A possible drawback? The tour’s success hinges on good weather; the experience is outdoor-focused, and rain could complicate the riding or reduce the scenic pleasure. Also, cycling experience and minimum height requirements (150 cm) are essential for safety. This tour suits wine lovers eager for a scenic, active day that combines culture, stunning views, and genuine Bordeaux wine.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines cycling, wine tasting, and sightseeing for a well-rounded day.
• Small Group: Max 8 travelers for personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Authentic Visits: Tour includes stops at family estates and a château, not just commercial wineries.
• Inclusive Lunch: Gourmet picnic with cheese, charcuterie, and a glass of wine offers true local flavor.
• Expert Guide: Led by an English-speaking guide with wine expertise, ensuring engaging commentary.
• Ideal for Active Enthusiasts: Requires some cycling experience and meeting height and weight requirements.

Exploring Bordeaux’s Vineyards on Electric Bikes

Picture this: a crisp morning in Bordeaux, the air smelling faintly of wine and wild herbs, as you meet your guide outside the Bordeaux Tourist Office. From here, you’re whisked away in a minivan to Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO-listed village famed for its cloisters, ancient stones, and—of course—world-class wines. This tour is designed for those who want to combine active exploration with wine tasting, and the electric bikes make the ride accessible even if you’re not a seasoned cyclist.

The price of $183.18 per person is reasonable when you consider the included activities: two wine tastings, a guided walking tour of Saint-Emilion, and a gourmet picnic lunch. The tour lasts around 8.5 hours, which gives plenty of time to savor the sights, sounds, and flavors of this legendary region. We particularly appreciate that it books well in advance—37 days on average—showing how popular this experience has become.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start in Bordeaux and head to Saint-Emilion
Your day begins with a 1-hour drive in a comfortable minivan, giving you a chance to relax and get excited about the day ahead. Once in Saint-Emilion, the fun kicks off with a brief safety and equipment briefing, where you’ll get fitted for your e-bike. We’ve read reviews praising the professionalism and friendliness of guides—most notably Clement, who’s celebrated for making the day both fun and informative.

First stop: Visiting a Château for a Red Wine Tasting
Your first winery visit is an opportunity to learn about Bordeaux’s wine-making traditions. You’ll enjoy at least 6 tastings across the day, mostly reds, which reflect the region’s famous style. The visit to a family-owned estate on top terroir is a highlight, according to reviews, because it offers a more personal, genuine experience. One guest exclaimed, “The vineyard and countryside are beautiful, and the town of Saint-Emilion was amazing.”

Gourmet Picnic Lunch with a View
After a couple of hours cycling and exploring, it’s time for a seated picnic overlooking the vineyards. Made by a local caterer, the spread typically includes cheese, charcuterie, homemade quiche, and seasonal desserts—plus a glass of wine. This is not just a meal but an experience in itself. Reviewers have said the lunch was “delicious,” and the setting makes it even more memorable.

Guided Tour of Saint-Emilion
Post-lunch, you’ll stroll through the cobbled streets, hearing stories about the medieval architecture and the history of this enchanting village. The guided walk lasts around 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere and capture photos of the picturesque views. One reviewer described it as “amazing,” noting the charm of the town’s ancient stones and vineyards.

Second Winery and Final Tasting
The last visit is to a family estate located on prime vineyard land. Here, you’ll learn about terroir—what makes certain plots of land produce exceptional wine—and enjoy your final tastings. The reviews emphasize the quality of wines and the welcoming atmosphere of the estate.

Return to Bordeaux
After a full day, in about 10 minutes by minivan, you’re back in Bordeaux, feeling satisfied, active, and perhaps a little tipsy.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic and Personal
Unlike large bus tours that might rush through wineries, this experience emphasizes intimate visits, including family-owned estates. Reviewers like Michelle G wrote, “This was my favorite part—the personal touch and the beautiful scenery made it all memorable.”

Scenic Cycling
The use of electric bikes means you can enjoy the gentle countryside without undue fatigue. The rides are described as leisurely, making it accessible for most active travelers with some cycling experience. The scenery is widely praised, with Judith_C calling it “beautiful vineyards and countryside.”

Knowledgeable Guide and Engaging Commentary
Hosts like Clement and Mel are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the day both fun and educational. This kind of guidance enhances your understanding of Bordeaux wine and culture.

Quality Food and Drink
The included picnic lunch and tastings provide excellent value, especially considering the high quality of the local products. Guests frequently mention how delicious and authentic the food is, adding a layer of enjoyment to the day.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour is capped at 8 participants, making it more personal than many larger group outings. The minimum age is 14, and participants should be at least 150 cm tall, with some cycling experience required. Be aware that the tour relies on good weather—rainy days might lead to cancellations or a less enjoyable experience.

The price covers most expenses, including tastings, lunch, and transportation. Extra wines at the last château are available but would be an additional cost. Water bottles are not provided, so bring your own—though refills are available at the wineries.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Bordeaux’s unique terroirs will find this tour enriching. Active travelers who enjoy a scenic bike ride and picturesque villages will appreciate the leisurely cycling and beautiful views. If you prefer to avoid large crowds and value small-group intimacy, this experience fits perfectly. It’s especially suitable for those who want an authentic taste of Saint-Emilion’s wine, culture, and landscape in one memorable day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners or only experienced cyclists?
You need some cycling experience and meet the height requirement (150 cm). The electric bikes make riding easier, but you should be comfortable cycling on country roads.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation from Bordeaux, two winery visits with at least six tastings, a guided walking tour of Saint-Emilion, a gourmet picnic lunch with a glass of wine, and the guide’s expertise.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Are water bottles provided?
No, for environmental reasons, bottles are not included. Guests should bring their own; refills are available at the wineries.

How many people are on this tour?
Maximum group size is 8. This small size makes for a more personalized and relaxed experience.

Is there an age limit?
Yes, participants must be at least 14 years old and meet the height requirement of 150 cm. The minimum drinking age is 18.

This Bordeaux wine and bike tour offers a delightful mix of activity, culture, and tasting—perfect for those who want a full, authentic day in France’s renowned wine country. With friendly guides, good value, and a scenic route, it’s an experience that’s both fun and educational, ideal for active travelers who appreciate good wine and charming villages.