Bordeaux: St. Emilion Wine and E-Bike Tour with Lunch

This experience made our article of Bordeaux’s 5 Best Lunch Experiences: Which To Choose?.

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Bordeaux: St. Emilion Wine and E-Bike Tour with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of cycling through rolling vineyards and tasting world-class wines in the heart of Bordeaux’s famed wine country, this St. Emilion e-bike tour might just be what you’re looking for. Although we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded blend of scenic beauty, expert guides, and authentic wine adventures.

What we love about this experience is its combination of easy cycling with electric bikes, which makes covering more ground comfortable for most, regardless of fitness level. The chance to visit two distinct chateaux and one merchant offers a variety of insights into Bordeaux’s wine-making traditions. Plus, the delightful picnic lunch amidst the vineyards sounds like the perfect way to relax and soak up the atmosphere. One potential consideration is that you need to be comfortable riding a bike—so if you’re not confident in that area, it might not be ideal.

This tour suits wine lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and curious travelers who want an authentic, less touristy experience in Saint-Émilion. It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate storytelling, local culture, and picturesque landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Balanced blend of cycling and wine tasting: Using e-bikes ensures a relaxed journey through vineyards.
Visit two unique chateaux: Each with its own story and style, providing diverse insights into Bordeaux wines.
Includes a delicious picnic lunch: Enjoy local French cuisine served amid beautiful vineyard views.
Expert guide with local storytelling: Gain deeper understanding of the region’s history and wine-making.
All-inclusive experience: Tasting over 10 wines, plus a classified wine glass at the end.
Small group setting: Limited to 10 participants for a more intimate experience.

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Exploring the Itinerary and Experiences

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

Your day kicks off at the Ebike Centre in Bordeaux, where you’ll meet your guide, often a knowledgeable local storyteller, ready to take you through a day of wine and scenery. The safety briefing lasts about 15 minutes, setting the tone for a smooth, enjoyable ride. If you’re new to cycling, the electric bikes will make climbing hills and covering vineyards a breeze, even if you’re not an avid cyclist.

The Scenic Ride through Saint-Émilion

The 45-minute e-bike ride that follows is the highlight for many. As you pedal along vineyard-lined roads, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the rolling hills and lush fields. The guide, often sharing personal stories and regional legends, makes each turn interesting. Reviewers like Aaron commented on the guide, Gaspar, saying, “Fantastic, informative and very fun trip with Gaspar.” His storytelling adds a layer of charm to the day, making the scenery even more engaging.

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Visits to Two Unique Chateaux

The core of this tour lies in the visits to two different chateaux, each offering a glimpse into Bordeaux’s wine craftsmanship. Expect to learn about wine-making processes, grape varieties, and what distinguishes each estate. The tastings are generous, with more than 10 different wines sampled throughout the day. One guest noted that “we tasted a minimum of 10 wines,” which indicates plenty of variety.

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Wine Tastings and Local Insights

The tastings at each estate are led by guides who are not just knowledgeable but passionate about sharing stories behind the wines. Guests have praised the insightful explanations and the chance to sample some of the best vintages in the region. Several reviews echo this, with Aaron mentioning how Gaspar’s storytelling made the experience more memorable. The final tasting includes a glass of classified Bordeaux wine, providing a perfect ending for wine aficionados.

Picnic Lunch Amidst Vineyards

A standout feature is the lunch served in the vineyards, where you’ll sit among the vines and enjoy beautiful French cuisine. The meal is described as adaptable to dietary restrictions, emphasizing its thoughtful preparation. Guests can relax, savor local delicacies, and sip wine as they take in the scenery. This meal isn’t just a break—it’s part of the experience, blending food, wine, and landscape seamlessly.

More Cycling and Tasting

In the afternoon, your e-bike takes you to another vineyard or merchant, where the tasting continues. Another 45-minute ride and subsequent tasting keep the day lively and engaging, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn more about Bordeaux wines. Guest Aaron highlights the expert guidance and stories, making each tasting more personal and memorable.

Final Stops and Return

The day concludes with a final tasting of more wines, including a 15-minute opportunity to purchase or enjoy your favorites. The ride back is relaxed, with your group sharing impressions and enjoying the landscape. The entire experience wraps up back at the initial meeting point, roughly 7 hours after start.

Value and Practical Aspects

The all-inclusive cost covers e-bike rental, helmet, guides, tastings at two chateaux and one merchant, lunch, and a variety of wines, including a classified wine glass at the end. Compared to similar experiences, the value is solid, especially considering the quality of wine, the scenic setting, and the personal attention from guides.

You’ll want to consider parking options, as paid parking is available on-site, with free parking nearby. The tour begins at 10:30–10:45 am, ideal for those wanting a full day of exploration. Since the group is limited to 10, expect a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to interact with your guide and fellow travelers.

Practical Tips

Bring a sun hat and dress appropriately for weather — the tour operates in all conditions, and rain gear is provided if needed.
Guests must be able to ride a bicycle, but the e-bikes make it accessible even for beginners.
The tour is suitable for travelers 18 and over.
To support sustainability, travelers are encouraged to bring their own refillable water bottles.

Authenticity and Reviewer Insights

The reviews highlight the expert guides, with Gaspar often singled out for his storytelling and local insights. Guests like Aaron mention that the trip was “fantastic and informative,” emphasizing the knowledgeable guidance and enjoyable pace. The scenic views, combined with the friendly group size, help make this a memorable day.

Many appreciated the unhurried nature of the tastings and the chance to really savor the wines, rather than rushing through. The picnic lunch received high praise for its quality and setting among the vines, making the experience feel genuinely French.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and travelers seeking an authentic taste of Bordeaux outside the city. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with cycling (though e-bikes ease this), enjoy storytelling and cultural insights, and want a relaxed yet engaging way to explore vineyards. It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate small group sizes and personalized attention.

The Sum Up

The Bordeaux: St. Emilion Wine and E-Bike Tour with Lunch offers a delightful blend of scenic cycling, expert-guided wine tastings, and delicious local cuisine. It’s a great way to discover the region’s beauty and character at a comfortable pace, making it accessible for most travelers. The inclusion of multiple tastings, a picnic lunch, and intimate group sizes ensures a memorable experience that goes beyond just tasting wine.

If you’re looking for an authentic, engaging, and scenic way to explore Bordeaux’s famed wine country, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of the region’s culture, landscapes, and, of course, its incredible wines—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

FAQ

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?
No, the tour uses electric bikes, which make pedaling easier, even on hills. You should be comfortable riding a bicycle, but no advanced skills are necessary.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers E-bike rental and helmets, wine tastings at two chateaux and one merchant, lunch, guides, and all fees and taxes.

Can I bring my own water?
Yes, guests are encouraged to bring refillable water bottles to stay hydrated, especially since plastic waste is discouraged.

Are the tastings suitable for wine novices?
Absolutely. The guides provide explanations suited for all levels, and you’ll sample a variety of wines, making it an educational yet enjoyable experience.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather, and don’t forget a sun hat on sunny days. Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for cycling are recommended.

Is there anything I should know about parking?
Paid parking is available on-site, or you can find free parking along the wall about five minutes walk away. Make sure to arrive early to secure a spot.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, starting at 10:30–10:45 am. It’s a full day of exploration, perfect for making the most of your Bordeaux visit.

In summary, this tour offers a lively, authentic, and scenic way to experience Bordeaux’s celebrated vineyards. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply eager to enjoy stunning landscapes with a glass in hand, this is a memorable way to spend a day in one of France’s most beautiful regions.