From Saint-Emilion : Electric Bike Day Tour with Wine Tastings and Picnic Lunch

Imagine pedaling through the rolling vineyards of Bordeaux’s most famous wine village, Saint-Emilion, on an easy-to-ride electric bike. For about six and a half hours, you’ll visit historic chateaux, sample exquisite wines, and savor a relaxing picnic lunch, all guided by friendly experts. The tour costs around $198 per person and is limited to small groups, ensuring a personal touch and plenty of opportunities to ask questions and soak in the scenery.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the electric bikes make conquering Saint-Emilion’s steep hills a breeze—no need to be an expert cyclist or worry about sweating too much. Second, the guided wine tastings at family-run estates offer genuine insight into Bordeaux’s renowned wines, combined with stunning views of the vineyard landscapes.

One consideration? Since this tour involves cycling on varied surfaces and some physical effort, it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and confidence on a bike. Also, the weather can influence your experience—fortunately, there’s a plan B for bad days.

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, active travelers, and anyone wanting an authentic, relaxed day in the Bordeaux countryside. If you enjoy a mix of scenic beauty, good company, and learning about wine, this is a memorable way to spend a day.

Key Points

• Scenic cycling experience through vineyards and charming Saint-Emilion
• Easy-to-ride electric bikes suitable for all fitness levels
• Authentic wine tastings at family-run chateaux
• In-depth insights from friendly, knowledgeable guides
• Relaxing picnic lunch paired with local wines
• Small group size for a personalized experience

The Core Experience: A Day in the Bordeaux Countryside

This tour offers a refreshing way to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Saint-Emilion. Starting at the Rustic Vines shop in the heart of the village, you’re introduced to your electric bike, which makes tackling the region’s steep hills much easier. The bikes are modern, with enough power to help you glide over slopes without breaking a sweat—perfect if you’re not a regular cyclist but still want to enjoy some outdoor activity.

The tour lasts about 6 hours and 30 minutes, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop. The small group size—capped at 10 travelers—means you’ll receive personalized attention and the chance to ask questions, making the experience more engaging and relaxed.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Stop 1: Saint-Emilion Village (10:30 am)

Your day begins in the medieval village of Saint-Emilion, a jewel of history and charm. Meeting your guide at the Rustic Vines shop, you’ll get a quick briefing and a short ride to your first winery. This initial stop is about 45 minutes, mainly to get accustomed to your bike and to soak in the atmosphere of this UNESCO site.

Stop 2: Château Bernateau (11:30 am)

Next, you’ll visit a family-run estate—a real highlight, according to reviews. Here, the owners share stories about their vineyard and craft wine, which makes the tasting feel personal and authentic. You’ll sample a selection of wines, gaining insight into what makes Bordeaux wines so special. This stop lasts around an hour and is included in your ticket.

Stop 3: Picnic Lunch at Château Bernateau (12:30 pm)

The highlight for many is the picnic lunch at the estate, paired with a glass of local wine. Imagine sitting in the shade, enjoying good food and wine amidst the vineyards—truly a leisurely, immersive experience. The reviewers frequently mention how much they appreciated the quality of the food and the relaxed atmosphere.

Stop 4: Château La Croizille (2:30 pm)

After lunch, it’s time for a visit to another winery, Château La Croizille. Here, you’ll go behind the scenes and taste more Bordeaux wines. This stop, lasting about an hour, allows you to compare different styles and learn about the wine-making process from passionate staff.

Stop 5: Guided Walk in Saint-Emilion (3:30 pm)

Refueling with a brief rest, you’ll return to the village for a guided walking tour. Walking through its narrow cobbled streets, you’ll see architectural marvels and learn about Saint-Emilion’s history, a favorite among reviewers for its charm and authenticity.

Stop 6: Final Wine Tasting in the Village (4 pm)

Your last stop is a wine tasting session in the heart of Saint-Emilion. It’s a relaxed way to conclude your day, with the opportunity to purchase bottles or simply savor the flavors. The reviews praise the friendliness of the guides and the quality of wines tasted.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers, including Carol_N, highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides who share engaging facts and create a welcoming atmosphere. She mentions, “The guide was very sympathetic, friendly, and made the whole experience even more enjoyable.” Others appreciate the stunning views of the vineyards, saying it’s a “beautiful day out,” and note that the wine tastings are authentic, not commercialized.

Some reviewers wished for more historical context during the biking segments, but overall, the scenic route and passionate wine hosts leave a lasting impression. A guest named sharon_s recounts how Vincent, her guide, was caring when her husband fell off his bike, showing the human touch that makes this tour stand out.

The Practical Aspects: What You Need to Know

The price of $197.69 covers all tastings, the picnic, and bike rental. Given the personalized attention and access to small family-run wineries, many find it a good value. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and confidence on a bike, as you’ll cover some hilly terrain. Weather is a factor; if it’s bad, there’s a plan B, so check the forecast beforehand.

The meeting point is conveniently close to public transportation, making it accessible. Since the tour is capped at 10 travelers, you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the experience feels intimate and relaxed.

If you’re someone who appreciates wine and scenic landscapes but isn’t keen on long car journeys, this tour hits the sweet spot. It balances active outdoor time with relaxing wine tastings and cultural exploration. It suits curious travelers who want to learn about Bordeaux wines directly from passionate producers, and it’s a great choice for small groups seeking an authentic Bordeaux experience.

While not suitable for those with serious mobility issues or extreme cycling aversion, confident cyclists who enjoy a scenic ride will find this a memorable outing. Families with older children or teenagers who are comfortable on bikes might also enjoy the day.

This electric bike tour around Saint-Emilion offers a fantastic mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and wine education. The use of electric bikes makes exploring the hilly vineyards accessible to a wider range of travelers, while the small group size and friendly guides create a warm, engaging environment. The wine tastings are authentic and varied, giving you a real taste of Bordeaux’s winemaking tradition. The picnic lunch adds a relaxed, local flavor to the day, making it more than just another tour.

If you’re a wine lover eager to see Bordeaux’s countryside from a different perspective, or an active traveler who enjoys combining gentle exercise with cultural experiences, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially appealing if you value small-group intimacy and the chance to ask questions directly to passionate wine producers.

However, if you’re not confident on a bike or prefer a fully relaxed, car-based tour, you might want to consider other options. Still, for those willing to pedal a bit and want an engaging, authentic experience, this tour delivers in spades.

Is this tour suitable for beginners or only experienced cyclists?
It’s best suited for those with confident cycling skills, as the terrain includes some slopes. The electric bikes make it easier, but you should be comfortable riding on varied surfaces.

How long is the total cycling distance?
The exact distance isn’t specified, but the tour involves several rides between stops, with most cycling happening on gentle to moderate slopes.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers bike rental, guided visits to two wineries, wine tastings, and a picnic lunch with wine. Small extras like souvenirs are not included.

Can the tour be canceled due to bad weather?
Yes, if the weather is unfavorable, there’s a plan B or the option to reschedule. You’ll be notified, and full refunds are available if canceled due to weather.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 10 travelers ensures a comfortable, personalized experience.

Are there any height or age restrictions?
Participants should be at least 155 cm tall and confident on a bicycle. It’s suited for adults and older teens comfortable with cycling.

Is transportation to and from Saint-Emilion included?
No, you meet directly at the Rustic Vines shop in Saint-Emilion. However, it’s near public transportation options.

In all, this tour is a well-rounded way to discover Saint-Emilion’s vineyards, enjoy authentic Bordeaux wines, and see the region’s beauty from a unique perspective—whether you’re a wine connoisseur, an active traveler, or simply eager for a relaxing day in one of France’s most picturesque villages.