Saint-Emilion Electric Bike Day Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch

A Day in Bordeaux’s Vineyards and Village: The Saint-Emilion Electric Bike Tour

Imagine cycling through sun-dappled vineyards, stopping at historic wineries, and wandering through a UNESCO-listed medieval village—all in one day. That’s precisely what the Saint-Emilion Electric Bike Day Tour offers. For about $209 per person, you get a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and, of course, top-tier French wines. Led by knowledgeable guides like Yev, Vincent, or Pauline, you’ll spend roughly 8 to 9 hours immersed in the sights, flavors, and stories of Bordeaux’s celebrated wine country.

Two things we especially love about this experience are how effortlessly the electric bikes make covering scenic terrain enjoyable—no sweaty effort needed—and the genuine intimacy of small groups, limited to just 10 travelers. It’s a chance to ask questions, savor wines, and really connect with the landscape and its producers.

One potential consideration is the physical aspect—while the bikes are electric, you should be comfortable cycling and have moderate fitness. Also, if the weather turns foul, the tour is adaptable, sometimes switching to a van, which can be a plus or a drawback depending on your preference for outdoor activity.

This tour suits those who love wine, enjoy a relaxed pace, and want an authentic feel for the region without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate good storytelling, scenic rides, and a dash of French village charm.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Two guided winery tours offer a behind-the-scenes look and tastings at two family-run estates.
• Beautiful cycling routes through vineyards provide stunning views and a chance to get some fresh air.
• Flexible options in case of rain include ponchos and raincoats or switching to a van if weather worsens.
• Time in Saint-Emilion village allows free exploration and a tasting in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, scenic rides, and memorable wines.

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect

The Start in Bordeaux

Your day kicks off around 9:30 am, with a pickup at RUSTIC VINES in Bordeaux. From there, a comfortable 45-minute drive whisks you to the Saint-Emilion region. The ride is smooth, and your guide will likely share some background on Bordeaux’s wine history or the day’s plan—making the journey part of the adventure rather than just a transfer.

Cycling the Vineyards

Once in Saint-Emilion, you’ll hop onto electric bikes, which handle most terrain effortlessly. We love the way e-bikes make covering the rolling vineyards accessible to almost everyone, even those with limited cycling experience. The route to the first château takes about an hour, winding through scenic small roads lined with vines, giving you a taste of the countryside that surrounds this famed wine area.

First Winery: Château Bernateau

Your first stop is a family-run estate where you’ll get a guided tour of the grounds and wine production. This personal touch allows you to see the scale and care that goes into their wines. The visit is followed by a tasting of their wines, which reviewers repeatedly praise for quality and authenticity. One guest noted, “Our guide was attentive, knowledgeable, funny, accommodating… the scenery and wine were fantastic.”

Picnic in the Vines

Next, you’ll enjoy a French-style picnic lunch set amid the vineyards. Think fresh cheeses, cold cuts, vegetables, crusty bread, and local specialties—lunch doesn’t get more authentic or enjoyable than this. The setting offers a true sense of rural France, paired with the wines you’ve just tasted. This leisurely break is a highlight, with several reviews mentioning how much they appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and delicious local fare.

Second Winery: Les Domaines De Moncets

After lunch, the cycling continues to a second estate, which offers a different perspective—more charm, more wine. Visitors describe it as a “charming wine estate” with a visit and wine tasting that live up to expectations. The landscape remains breathtaking, with lush vineyards and small country roads that make riding a pleasure.

Village Exploration and Tasting

The afternoon wraps up with a visit to Saint-Emilion itself. Here, you’re free to wander the narrow cobblestone streets, soak in the medieval architecture, and visit local wine shops. In one hour, you’ll also enjoy a wine tasting in the village, often in a cozy shop in the town’s core. Guests frequently comment on the informative guides and the delicious wines tasted in this charming setting.

Return to Bordeaux

The tour concludes around 6 pm with a comfortable drive back to Bordeaux. You’ll be full of new wines, stories, and picturesque impressions—ready to soak in the city’s evening vibe or rest up after a day well spent. Reviewers consistently note the smooth organization and the excellent tips from guides about Bordeaux’s local scene.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The small-group format creates a friendly atmosphere where questions flow easily, making it more engaging than larger tours. The balance of cycling, wine, and sightseeing ensures you get a well-rounded taste of Saint-Emilion’s essence. Guides like Vincent or Pauline are often praised for their knowledge, personality, and ability to adapt—whether it’s adjusting for rain or sharing local insights that make the day special.

Many guests find the wineries to be genuine family-run estates, not just commercial operations. This adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers crave. And the lunch setup—a picnic with traditional French products—feels both relaxed and indulgent, perfectly complementing the wines.

The scenery is breathtaking, with rolling vineyards and historic streets providing endless photo opportunities. The optional free time in Saint-Emilion offers a chance to explore at your own pace—whether for more tasting, browsing boutiques, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

The Reviews Tell It All

Guest reviews are glowing, especially about the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and excellent wines. One reviewer called it “the best part of our trip,” emphasizing the fun and educational nature of the day. Others appreciated that the ride was not physically demanding—the e-bikes do the work—making it accessible for a variety of fitness levels.

Practical Considerations

The tour is priced at around $208, which includes guided visits, tastings, and a picnic lunch. For those interested in wine and scenic cycling, the value is clear, especially considering the small group size and the chance to visit two distinct wineries. It’s also flexible, with rain options and a cancellation policy that offers free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You should be comfortable cycling confidently—since the tour involves some riding on country roads—and be prepared for variable weather. The tour departs in the morning and returns in the evening, fitting well into most travel schedules.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience caters best to travelers who enjoy wine, outdoor activity, and cultural sights. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic taste of Bordeaux’s wine country without the hassle of planning logistics. If you’re a small group seeker, a history lover, or someone wanting delicious local food paired with fantastic wines, this is a great fit.

It also works well for people with moderate cycling experience, given the electric bikes, but those who dislike biking might prefer the van option when weather is poor.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as you’re confident cycling and comfortable on a bike, the electric bikes make it easy to cover the terrain without much effort.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for outdoor activity—layers are wise, and don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen. In case of rain, ponchos or raincoats are provided, or the ride can switch to a van.

How long is the drive from Bordeaux to Saint-Emilion?
The transfer takes roughly 45 minutes each way, making the most of your day without long travel times.

Are the wine tastings included?
Yes, the tour price covers tastings at two wineries as well as the final tasting in Saint-Emilion.

Is lunch included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch featuring cheeses, cold cuts, vegetables, and bread—set in the vineyard for a truly French experience.

Can I do this tour if I have limited mobility?
The activity involves cycling and walking in the village, so some mobility is needed. A bicycle confidence level is required.

What happens if it rains?
Rain gear is provided, and the tour can be adapted to a van if necessary. Some guests found that the scenery and experience still remained enjoyable even in wet weather.

How many people are in each group?
Limited to just 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience and more interaction with guides.

To sum it up, the Saint-Emilion Electric Bike Day Tour offers a fantastic way to combine physical activity, scenic beauty, and wine tasting without feeling rushed or crowded. It’s especially appealing to those who want an authentic, relaxed, and engaging experience with expert guides and exceptional views. Perfect for wine lovers, small groups, and those eager to see the best of Bordeaux’s countryside—this tour promises a memorable day in France’s most charming wine region.