Full-day Saint-Emilion: Village, Undergrounds and Châteaux

Exploring the UNESCO-listed village of Saint-Emilion is a must for wine lovers and history buffs alike. This full-day tour takes you on a journey through the region’s rich heritage, from the charming medieval streets to the remarkable underground monuments. You’ll get a taste of the local terroir at a renowned château, but the real treat lies in uncovering the hidden gems that make this place so captivating.

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Key Points

Explore the UNESCO-listed village of Saint-Emilion, immersing in its rich history, medieval architecture, and charming cobblestone streets.
Visit Château Balestard La Tonnelle for breathtaking vineyard views and a guided wine tasting experience showcasing the region’s unique terroir.
Discover the underground monuments of Saint-Emilion, including the Monolithic Church, Trinity Chapel, and Catacombs, for a unique perspective on the village’s heritage.
Enjoy free time to wander the medieval streets, browse quaint shops, and sample local cuisine in the charming cafes of Saint-Emilion.
The full-day tour provides an exceptional and memorable journey, highly rated by travelers for its historical and gastronomic value.

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Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Saint-Emilion

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the charming village of Saint-Emilion offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich history and renowned wine culture of the Bordeaux region.

Winding cobblestone streets and medieval architecture transport you back in time, while the underground monuments, including the Monolithic Church and Catacombs, provide a glimpse into the area’s spiritual heritage.

Guided tours allow you to explore these remarkable sites, gaining insights into the village’s past.

With free time to stroll and discover the quaint shops and restaurants, Saint-Emilion promises an unforgettable cultural experience.

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Château Balestard La Tonnelle: Vineyard Views and Wine Tasting

The tour begins with a visit to Château Balestard La Tonnelle, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking vineyard views and an exclusive wine tasting. Nestled among the rolling hills, the château offers a glimpse into the region’s winemaking heritage. During the 75-minute experience, guests will sample two of the estate’s finest wines, guided by knowledgeable staff who share insights into the property’s history and the unique terroir.

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Discovering the Historic Village of Saint-Émilion

After exploring the vineyards and tasting the wines at Château Balestard La Tonnelle, the tour now takes visitors into the heart of the historic village of Saint-Émilion.

With free time to wander, travelers can discover the charming medieval streets, quaint shops, and local cafes.

The tour includes a guided visit to the underground monuments, where visitors will marvel at the Monolithic Church, Trinity Chapel, Catacombs, and Hermitage of Monk Émilion.

This immersive experience provides insight into the village’s rich history and religious significance, complementing the earlier wine tasting.

Underground Monuments: Monolithic Church, Trinity Chapel, and More

One of the highlights of the Saint-Émilion tour is the guided visit to the village’s remarkable underground monuments.

Visitors will explore the Monolithic Church, a remarkable feat of engineering carved into the limestone hillside.

Next, they’ll discover the Trinity Chapel, an ornate medieval church hidden beneath the surface.

The tour also takes guests through the Catacombs and the Hermitage of Monk Émilion, providing a fascinating glimpse into the village’s history.

This immersive experience offers a unique perspective on Saint-Émilion’s rich heritage and the ingenuity of its past inhabitants.

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Château Champion: A Winemaker’s Tasting Experience

Although the underground monuments captivate visitors, the tour’s highlight comes at Château Champion. Here, guests enjoy a tasting of 3 wines with insights from the winemaker. Sip and savor the complex flavors, learning about the winemaking process and the estate’s unique terroir. The experience is an immersive one, allowing guests to truly appreciate the art of winemaking.

| Château Champion Experience | | |

| — | — | — |

| 3 Wines Tasted | Winemaker Insights | Estate Terroir |

| Explore Flavors | Learn Process | Understand Uniqueness |

| Appreciate Artistry | Engage Senses | Discover Provenance |

This exclusive tasting caps off a day filled with historical wonders and stunning vistas, leaving guests with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Saint-Émilion.

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Navigating the Tour: Meeting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at the Bordeaux Tourist Office, located at 12 cours du 30 juillet.

The tour begins at the Bordeaux Tourist Office, located at 12 cours du 30 juillet.

This is the meeting point where you’ll depart from at 9:45 AM.

You’ll travel by coach to the Saint-Emilion region, an hour’s drive from Bordeaux.

The coach provides a comfortable and convenient way to get to the different sites on the itinerary.

No need to worry about directions or navigation – your bilingual guide will handle all the logistics.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic countryside as you make your way to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Saint-Emilion.

Inclusions and Important Information

The tour includes several key items, such as transportation by coach from Bordeaux, a visit and wine tasting at Château Balestard La Tonnelle, entrance fees to the underground monuments, and a tasting of three wines at Château Champion.

A bilingual guide is also included to provide insights throughout the day. However, personal expenses and lunch aren’t covered.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, so comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended. Itineraries may change, so it’s important to be flexible.

Customer Feedback: Highlights and Value for Money

According to the reviews, travelers have been highly satisfied with the Saint-Emilion tour, rating it an impressive 4.9 out of 5 overall. The value for money has also been praised, scoring 4.5 out of 5. Reviewers highlight the tour’s historical and gastronomic experience, immersing visitors in the rich heritage and renowned wines of the region.

| Highlight | Rating |

| — | — |

| Overall Experience | 4.9/5 |

| Value for Money | 4.5/5 |

| Historical & Gastronomic Experience | Highly Praised |

Clearly, this Saint-Emilion tour offers an exceptional and memorable journey for those seeking to explore the UNESCO-listed village and its renowned châteaux.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 2 days in advance for a full refund. Customers have the flexibility to change their plans without penalty if needed.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?

The tour doesn’t offer customized meals, but the guide can suggest restaurants in Saint-Émilion that accommodate special dietary needs. Just let them know ahead of time so they can provide recommendations.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can request an additional hour or two to explore Saint-Émilion village further or visit another château for more wine tasting. There’s flexibility to customize the itinerary to match your interests.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

The tour operator offers group discounts for bookings of 4 or more people. The more guests in the group, the bigger the discount. You’ll save money by booking with friends or family.

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, there’s an opportunity to purchase souvenirs during the tour. Visitors can explore the charming boutiques and shops in Saint-Émilion village, where they’ll find a variety of local wines, artisanal products, and souvenirs to bring home.

The Sum Up

The Saint-Emilion tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending the village’s rich history, medieval architecture, and exceptional wine. Visitors can wander the charming streets, explore underground monuments, and savor tastings at renowned local châteaux. It’s an immersive journey that showcases the best of this UNESCO-protected region, providing an unforgettable glimpse into Saint-Emilion’s heritage and terroir.