Saint-Emilion: Vintage moped rides and tours

Discover Saint-Emilion: Vintage Moped Rides and Tours

If you’re seeking a unique way to explore one of France’s most celebrated wine regions, the Saint-Emilion vintage moped tour might just be your perfect fit. For $104 per person, you’ll spend around three hours hopping onto a restored vintage moped—likely a Motobécane or Peugeot from the 70s or 80s—and cruising through 35 km of scenic vineyards and quiet country lanes. The experience kicks off from a charming château just a few kilometers from the medieval village of Saint-Emilion, with a focus on fun, authenticity, and discovering hidden corners of this UNESCO-listed area.

What we love about this experience is how it combines adventure with education—you’re not just riding for the thrill, but also soaking in the landscape and history. The route includes charming villages, iconic châteaux, and even detours into neighboring Pomerol and Montagne Saint-Emilion. Plus, the local guide’s knowledge and friendliness make the journey even more memorable. It’s perfect for those who want to do something different from the usual bus tours or wine tastings, and who enjoy a dash of retro style and a sense of freedom on two wheels.

One possible consideration is that this isn’t a tour for everyone—participants must be at least 18, hold a valid driver’s license, and be comfortable riding a vintage moped. The ride is accessible to beginners, but you should be prepared for a short safety briefing and some basic riding. Also, as the activity is weather-dependent, bad weather can lead to cancellations or postponements, so it’s wise to plan for a clear day.

This tour suits travelers who love a hands-on experience, enjoy outdoor activities, and are eager to explore the Bordeaux vineyards in a relaxed, informal way. If you’re a wine lover wanting to combine scenic sightseeing with tasting, or a vintage vehicle enthusiast, this activity will probably be right up your alley.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Vintage Experience: Ride on restored mopeds from the 70s or 80s, adding a nostalgic touch.
• Scenic Road Trip: Travel 35 km on peaceful roads through Saint-Emilion’s vineyards and charming villages.
• Flexible Tour Options: Independent or guided rides available, depending on group size.
• Wine Tasting Opportunity: Optional tastings at partner châteaux, with costs paid on-site.
• All-Inclusive Rental: Mopeds come with helmets, full tank, insurance, and assistance.
• Accessible to Beginners: No prior riding experience required; just a driver’s license and comfortable shoes.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

The Starting Point and Orientation

The tour begins at Chateau Vieux Clos, a picturesque estate just a short drive from Saint-Emilion’s historic center. Here, you’ll meet your friendly guide (speak French, English, or Spanish) and receive a clear safety briefing—roughly 15 minutes—to familiarize yourself with the vintage moped, helmet use, and basic riding tips. The reassurance that the mopeds are approved, restored classics from the 70s or 80s, helps set the tone for a relaxed, enjoyable outing.

The Route and Scenic Highlights

The core of this experience is the 35 km loop of quiet, rural roads that wind through the famed vineyards of Saint-Emilion, as well as nearby Pomerol and Montagne Saint-Emilion. We loved how the route is designed to be accessible, yet offers enough variety to keep the ride interesting—stopping at viewpoints, passing by châteaux, and discovering lesser-known spots. The roads are not busy, making this ideal even for those new to riding two-wheelers.

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What You’ll See and Do

The activity includes a self-guided sightseeing tour of Saint-Emilion, lasting about two hours. You’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, with a digital roadbook providing recommended routes, viewpoints, and addresses of local wineries and sights. The guide’s explanations enrich the experience, helping you understand what makes this region legendary.

The Viewpoint and Guided Tour

A highlight is the viewpoint stop, where you get sweeping vistas of vineyard-covered hills—perfect for photos and soaking up the landscape. This part of the tour is guided, often with insightful commentary about the terroir and local history, which adds depth beyond just the scenery.

Wine Tasting

After the ride, you have the option to visit a partner winery for a tasting session, typically lasting about an hour. Tastings are paid for on-site and cost between €8 and €25 per person, depending on the estate. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, who help make these tastings educational as well as enjoyable. Some participants mentioned the warm welcome and the chance to experience authentic Bordeaux wines in a relaxed setting.

Practical Details and Logistics

• The activity lasts around 3 hours total, including safety briefing, riding, sightseeing, and tasting.
• Departure times are generally in the afternoon (around 2 p.m.) or late afternoon (around 5 p.m.) based on availability.
• The tour is suitable for adults over 18 with a valid driver’s license, and a requirement to wear closed shoes for safety.
• The activity may be postponed in case of bad weather, so check the forecast.
• The cost includes mopeds, helmets, fuel, insurance, and assistance, making it a good value given the personalized experience.

Authentic and Fun

Reviewers consistently called this a “super,” “enriching,” and “great fun” activity. Sandra from Belgium called it “Super!” and Emey from France mentioned their gratitude for the kindness of the guides and the fun, enriching ride. Anja from Germany found it “a tolle Erlebnis,” or a great experience, highlighting how it was a memorable break from typical tours.

Who Will Love This?

If you enjoy outdoor activities, vintage vehicles, or want a more personal insight into Bordeaux’s wine country, this tour checks all boxes. It’s especially well-suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, informal experience with a local touch. The group size is private, so it feels intimate and tailored, perfect for couples, friends, or small families.

Practicalities to Keep in Mind

• Remember to bring your driver’s license.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, children under 18, or people over 287 lbs.
• If the weather turns bad, your activity might be rescheduled or canceled—so keep an eye on the forecast.
• The tour price does not include tastings or meals, but many wineries offer on-site catering for an additional charge, so consider adding that on if you’re hungry.

The Sum Up

The Saint-Emilion vintage moped tour offers a delightful blend of scenic exploration and wine culture, all wrapped in a fun, vintage package. It’s especially good for those who want to see the countryside at their own pace and experience Bordeaux like a local, not just as a tourist. The friendly guides, well-maintained mopeds, and authentic landscapes make it a memorable way to connect with this celebrated region.

While it’s not for everyone—particularly if you prefer guided bus tours or are uncomfortable on a moped—the experience provides real value for those seeking a mix of adventure, scenery, and wine. If you’re craving a personal, offbeat experience in the Bordeaux area, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is accessible for those with no prior riding experience, as long as you’re comfortable riding a moped and have a driver’s license. The safety briefing and support on site help ensure a smooth ride.

What vehicles are used?
You’ll ride on restored vintage mopeds, likely from the 70s or 80s, made by brands like Motobécane or Peugeot.

How long does the tour last?
The entire activity takes about 3 hours, including safety briefing, riding, sightseeing, and optional wine tasting.

Can I join without a guide?
Yes, there is an independent tour option where you follow a digital roadbook. Guided tours are also available depending on group size.

Are tastings included?
No, tastings are optional and are paid for separately on-site at partner wineries.

What should I wear?
Closed shoes are required for safety; comfortable clothing and sun protection are recommended depending on the weather.

Is parking available at the start?
Yes, free parking is provided at the partner estate where the tour begins.

What’s the minimum age?
Participants must be at least 18 years old.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind to plan your trip flexibly.

In summary, this vintage moped tour through Saint-Emilion is a lively, authentic way to experience Bordeaux. It combines scenic riding, wine tasting, and a dash of nostalgia—all wrapped up in a friendly, well-organized package. Whether you’re a wine lover, a vintage vehicle fan, or simply looking for a memorable adventure, this tour deserves a spot on your Bordeaux itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: