Private vintage car half-day wine tour in 2CV

Experience the Charm of Southern France on a Private Vintage Car Wine Tour

Imagine cruising through the scenic countryside of Montpellier in a classic 2CV, the iconic French vintage car, with the roof down and the sun on your face. For about three and a half hours, you’ll visit two highly regarded wineries in the Pic Saint-Loup region, taste some of the best wines of Languedoc, and enjoy a delicious regional lunch—all in the company of a knowledgeable guide. This private tour, priced at approximately $485.86 for up to three people, offers a relaxed and personalized way to explore the flavors and landscapes of southern France.

Two features stand out immediately: the charm of the vintage vehicle that adds a layer of fun and authenticity, and the intimate, small-group setting that ensures you receive plenty of attention from your guide. We also appreciate the flexible nature of the itinerary, which can include optional stops at a local olive farm or oyster farm, depending on your interests.

One possible consideration is the duration—at just over three hours, this is a half-day experience, so travelers with more time might want to supplement it with additional activities. But if you prefer a focused, leisurely taste of the region’s wines and scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for lovers of wine, vintage cars, and authentic regional experiences, especially if you want to avoid large crowds and enjoy a tailored, friendly atmosphere.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with a maximum of three people ensures tailored service.
• Authentic Vintage Vehicle: The charming 2CV adds fun and classic appeal to your journey.
• Diverse Stops: Visits to two wineries and optional olive or oyster farms offer variety.
• Culinary Inclusion: A three-course regional lunch at a lakeside restaurant provides great value.
• Expert Guidance: Friendly, knowledgeable guides narrate and answer questions throughout.
• Flexible Itinerary: Customizable stops based on your preferences and departure point.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

Pickup and Introduction

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your preferred location in Montpellier, where your guide—likely a friendly local—will greet you and explain the plan for the day. The vintage 2CV, with its cheerful charm, sets the tone for a relaxed, fun experience. We loved the way the convertible roof allows scenic views and fresh air, making the drive feel like a casual discovery rather than a formal tour.

First Stop: Domaine Cazalis de Fondouce

Your guide will accompany you to your first vineyard, Domaine Cazalis de Fondouce. Here, you’ll get to taste a selection of traditional Languedoc wines, learning about the region’s winemaking heritage. The small-scale winery prides itself on authentic production, which means you’ll taste wines that reflect the land and climate.

The highlight here is the personalized attention—your guide answers questions about the vineyards and wine styles, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The visit lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to savor the flavors and take photos of the beautiful surroundings.

Second Stop: Pic Saint-Loup

Next, you’ll head north towards Pic Saint-Loup, one of the most interesting wine regions in Languedoc. You’ll visit two wineries in this area, each offering distinctive wines. Expect to taste a variety of reds and possibly whites, with your guide explaining the delicate flavors and what makes each estate unique.

The scenery here is especially scenic, with rolling vineyards and the iconic Pic Saint-Loup mountain creating a striking backdrop. We loved the way the tour combines tastings with insights into the terroir—how the soil, climate, and grape varieties influence the wines.

Optional Olive or Oyster Farm Visits

Depending on your departure point and preferences, the tour can include a visit to a local olive oil producer or an oyster farm near the Thau lagoon. This flexibility allows you to customize your experience, making it more than just a wine tour—it’s a taste of regional produce.

Lunch by the Lake

The tour wraps up with a three-course meal at a lakeside restaurant, offering regional specialties. The lunch is considered a highlight by many, with delicious dishes that complement the flavors of the wines tasted earlier. It’s a relaxed setting where you can chat about the day’s discoveries and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

Return and Reflection

After lunch, your guide will bring you back to Montpellier, concluding a memorable half-day of exploring, tasting, and enjoying France’s countryside. The tour ends back at your starting point, leaving you with lasting impressions of the region’s flavors and landscapes.

In-Depth Review: What Makes This Tour Special

The Vintage Car Experience

Traveling in a 2CV is part of the charm. This classic French car, with its quirky design and open roof, adds an authentic touch that you won’t find on standard coach tours. We loved the way it makes the experience feel more personal and less touristy. The convertible roof is perfect for scenic views, whether it’s the vineyard rows, the mountain ranges, or the olive groves. The open-air drive makes the countryside feel immediate and alive.

Wineries and Tastings

The two wineries included are carefully selected for their authenticity and quality. Domaine Cazalis de Fondouce offers a glimpse into traditional winemaking practices, with wines that are representative of the region. The tasting here is more than just sipping; it’s an opportunity to learn about the land and the craft, which the guide makes understandable and engaging.

In the Pic Saint-Loup area, the tour visits two wineries that showcase the diversity of the region’s wines. Expect reds with complex layers, and if you’re lucky, a crisp white or rosé to round out the tasting. The guides’ attention to detail—like describing the nuances of flavor—helps you appreciate what’s in your glass.

Regional Flavors and Lunch

The included lunch at a lakeside restaurant is not just filler—it’s a thoughtfully curated meal of regional specialties, often accompanied by local wine. Many travelers have found this meal to be a delightful highlight, with fresh, flavorful dishes that pair nicely with the wines tasted earlier. Given the setting—by a tranquil lake—it’s an ideal spot to unwind and reflect.

Flexibility and Personal Attention

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is its private nature. Unlike large-group excursions, the experience is tailored to your interests, allowing the guide to focus on your questions and preferences. If you’re keen on olives or oysters, the guide can adapt the stops accordingly. This flexibility ensures that your experience is both engaging and personalized.

The Cost and Value

At $485.86 for up to three people, the price might seem high at first glance. But considering the private service, several tastings, the delicious lunch, and the unique vintage car journey, it offers good value for a special, tailored experience. For wine lovers or those seeking a more intimate way to explore southern France’s culinary delights, this tour provides a memorable package.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or friends who appreciate good wine, scenic drives, and authentic regional experiences. It suits travelers looking for a relaxed, high-quality half-day trip that combines cultural discovery with leisure. If you’re passionate about wine, enjoy beautiful landscapes, or want a memorable way to explore Montpellier’s surroundings, this tour checks all those boxes.

It’s also perfect if you prefer a personalized experience over crowded coach tours—your guide’s friendly approach makes it feel like a private adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Since the tour involves wine tastings and the legal drinking age is 18, it’s best suited for adults. Non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic drive and learn about regional produce, but tastings are strictly for those of legal age.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for a casual outing—think layers if it’s sunny or breezy—and comfortable shoes for walking at the wineries. The vintage car has a convertible roof, so sun protection might be a good idea.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility, depending on your interests and departure point. You can opt for visits to olive farms or oyster farms if available, making your experience more personal.

How long is each winery visit?
Typically, each winery stop lasts around an hour, enough for tastings and some photos. The total tour duration is about 3.5 hours, including travel and lunch.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup from your preferred location in Montpellier is included, and the transport is in a vintage 2CV, enhancing the charm of the experience.

What’s included in the price?
The private tour, vintage car transport, visits to two wineries, tastings, optional visits to olive/oyster farms, and a three-course lunch are included in the fee.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a unique, intimate way to explore southern France’s wine and culinary scene, this vintage car tour from Montpellier offers a delightful blend of scenic drives, authentic tastings, and regional flavors. The personalized service and charming vehicle make it a memorable experience, especially for lovers of wine and vintage vehicles. It’s best suited for those who enjoy small-group settings and want to go beyond the typical tour bus experience.

While it might not be the cheapest option, the quality of the visits, the authenticity of the surroundings, and the opportunity for a relaxed, tailored journey make it worth considering. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to taste the true flavors of France, this tour provides a perfect escape into the peaceful countryside with a touch of nostalgia.

In summary, this private vintage car wine tour is a charming, personalized way to enjoy some of the best of Languedoc—the wines, scenery, and regional cuisine—making it a memorable highlight of your trip to Montpellier.