E-bike trip : From Bordeaux to Saint-Emilion with picnic lunch
Description
Prepare for an unforgettable e-bike tour through the Bordeaux countryside, from Bordeaux to Saint-Émilion, two UNESCO World Heritage destinations. Discover iconic landmarks such as the Palais Gallien, Saint-André Cathedral, the Grosse Cloche (Big Bell), and the Pont de Pierre (Stone Bridge). Cycle through the Entre-Deux-Mers natural region and experience the Bordeaux countryside like few others, passing through picturesque villages, stone farmhouses, and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. Halfway through, enjoy a French-style picnic lunch with wine. Your journey will culminate as you approach the UNESCO World Heritage village of Saint-Émilion, where you'll cycle by e-bike among the vineyards and prestigious châteaux of Saint-Émilion. Optional: Visit a family-run estate in the Saint-Émilion appellation and taste its fine wines. The rest of the day is yours; your guide will share tips on how to best enjoy the village on foot and at your own pace.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Meet Edwin, your Gravel Explore guide, in the Chartrons district. Get to grips with the bikes and learn about the route.
The green lung of the city, this garden is one of the locals' favorite places
One of the most emblematic monuments, Saint-André Cathedral traces the history of the city from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Cycle along one of the city's most beautiful streets. The Grosse Cloche was the city's main gate in the Middle Ages.
The Pont de Pierre is the first stone bridge built in Bordeaux. It dates back to the 19th century.
A peaceful path along the banks of the Garonne, on the right bank. This section offers breathtaking views of Bordeaux's historic landscape, including the Place de la Bourse and the Grosse Cloche in the distance. It's a quiet, tree-lined area, ideal for enjoying the contrast between the bustling city and the gentle riverbanks, before reaching the countryside and vineyards.
A blend of urbanity and modernity before plunging into nature. This contemporary vessel marks the boundary between the city and cycling escape.
A small, discreet village at the gateway to the Entre-deux-Mers region, Bouillac immerses you in the tranquility of the Gironde countryside. Here, vineyards begin to define the landscape, between hedgerows and blond stone houses.
Nestled at the gateway to the Entre-Deux-Mers region, this charming village marks the transition between city and countryside. You'll follow peaceful paths and old railway lines, immersed in nature and vineyards. You'll cycle along the legendary Roger Lapébie cycle path, which winds through woods and villages, offering a peaceful and safe setting in the heart of nature. You'll cycle in complete freedom, lulled by the sound of birdsong and the rustling of leaves.
Known for its pottery past, Sadirac is a village with artisanal roots. Its rural heritage and rolling landscapes provide a taste of the local produce that awaits you further afield. Here, we'll enjoy a gourmet moment with a French-style picnic featuring wine and local produce.
A former English fortified town, Créon is now a welcoming stopover in the heart of the Entre-deux-Mers region. Cyclists, local producers, and locals mingle under the arcades of the central square. A warm and authentic atmosphere.
This peaceful village is home to a thousand-year-old history. Nestled between vineyards and forests, it gently guides you toward a hidden treasure of Gironde heritage. From there, you'll see the majestic ruins of the Abbey of La Sauve-Majeure, a Benedictine abbey dominating the landscape. Founded in the 11th century, it evokes the spiritual power of the Middle Ages. A place steeped in silence, history, and mystical beauty. A contemplative break on your journey.
The vines become denser, the hills more pronounced: you enter the world of wine. Daignac offers magnificent views of the wine-growing hillsides and paths lined with dry stone walls.
In the heart of the vineyards, Grézillac is an invitation to slow down. Between family-run wineries and breathtaking views of the valleys, the setting is ideal for a rustic picnic in the shade of oak trees or in a clearing.
You've reached the Dordogne River! Branne is a lively village nestled on the banks of the river. You can feel the influence of the wine-growing valley, with its small shops, cafés, and colorful markets. Here you'll cross the Pont de Branne, a metal bridge spanning the Dordogne River and offering a breathtaking view of both banks. Crossing it, you symbolically pass from the Entre-deux-Mers region to the gateway to the prestigious Saint-Émilion region.
An iconic estate among the Grands Crus Classés of Saint-Émilion. Blending tradition and elegance, La Gaffelière embodies Bordeaux's winemaking excellence. A beautiful introduction before the final finale.
A medieval gem listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saint-Émilion welcomes you with its cobbled streets, rock-carved monuments, and exceptional vineyards. Here, history, wine, and beauty are combined. An unforgettable place to end this adventure. You'll have the privilege of cycling through the region's most prestigious vineyards and tasting some of the finest Saint-Émilion wines in a family-run wine château.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Reviews(10)
Thanks to Edwin for a wonderful adventure! We had a terrific day, thanks to his expert guidance and knowledge of Bordeaux - all it has to offer. A great ride, picnic, and winery tour/tasting side trip near Saint Emilion.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It was a real pleasure to share this adventure with you, from the vibrant streets of Bordeaux to the peaceful vineyards on the way to Saint-Émilion. I'm delighted you enjoyed every part of the experience—the ride, the picnic, and the winery visit. Thank you for your kind words about my guidance and knowledge of the region. Creating authentic, memorable experiences that combine cycling, culture, gastronomy, and human connection is exactly what Gravel Explore is all about. I hope these memories will stay with you for a long time, and I'd be delighted to welcome you back for another adventure someday! Warm regards, Edwin
A wonderful excursion! Enchanted trails full of birds and other wild life. I would do it again ina heartbeat!
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I'm delighted to hear that you enjoyed the ride and the peaceful beauty of the Bordeaux countryside. Spotting birds and wildlife along the way is one of those little surprises that make every adventure unique, and I'm so glad you experienced it. Knowing that you'd do it again "in a heartbeat" is the greatest compliment I could receive. Thank you for your trust, and I hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable ride in Bordeaux someday! Warm regards, Edwin
We had a wonderful time with Edwin. And met new friends Craig and Jacqui
Thank you so much, Greg and Cathy! I’m really happy to hear you had such a wonderful time. It was a pleasure sharing this ride with you—and even better that the day brought new connections with Craig and Jacqui. That’s exactly what these adventures are about: great moments, great people, and unforgettable memories on the bike. Hope to see you again for another ride in Bordeaux someday! Warm regards, Edwin
We had the perfect day, Edwin our guide was excellent he guided us through Bordeaux and out into the countryside towards our final destination, the lunch stop was lovely. We would definitely recommend this trip.
Thank you so much, Norman & Jacqueline, for your kind words! I’m really happy to hear that you had such a perfect day exploring Bordeaux and the surrounding countryside. It was a true pleasure guiding you both, and I’m glad you enjoyed the ride as well as the lunch stop along the way. Your recommendation means a lot, and I hope we’ll have the chance to ride together again in the future! Warm regards, Edwin
We had the best day cycling with Edwin from Bordeaux to St Emillion. Edwin was so knowledgeable about the city, region and it's wine and food. He took us on an absolutely beautiful route and he made us a carefully considered, beautiful lunch en route. Edwin kindly took lots of photos and videos along the way so we didn't have to worry about missing a moment of the experience. When we arrived at the vineyard Edwin went above and beyond to translate the tour for us as unfortunately on the day we visited there was not an English speaking tour running. The train ride back to Bordeaux rounded off the perfect day. I can't recommend this trip highly enough. It absolutely made our holiday and we'll never forget it.
Hello Laura & Daniel, Thank you so much for your beautiful words! It was a real pleasure to guide you from Bordeaux to Saint-Émilion and to share both the city and the countryside with you along the way. I’m so glad you enjoyed the route, the picnic, and the visit to the vineyard, it means a lot to know the little touches like photos, videos, and translations helped make the day more special. Your recommendation and kind feedback truly mean the world, and I’m delighted this experience became such a memorable part of your holiday. I hope our paths cross again one day for another gravel adventure in Bordeaux! 🚴🍷 Warm regards, Edwin
This was a great day. Picked the e-Bike up in Bordeaux and was surprised that it was heavier than I expected. But that made no difference, as when you're riding, it's so smooth and feels as light as a feather. We started out cycling around the streets of Bordeaux, with our fabulous guide Edwin showing us several iconic sites. Traffic, pedestrians, and other cyclists made for a busy first hour, but take it slow; motorists, other cyclists and pedestrians are very tolerant and polite, catering for any clumsiness you (well, me) may have initially. I hadn't ridden a bike in years, but all good...you'll be fine! We soon left the traffic and entered a wonderfully serene bikeway. Several kms along the way, a lunch stop, where Edwin magically produced a delicious, rustic picnic, with, of course, a fine bottle of wine (red and white). Continued on another serene bikeway and got to St Emilion, where we toured and tasted some beautiful wines. St Emilion is amazing - full of history, and of course, wine! You'll get the train back to Bordeaux, Edwin will show you where the station is; a short 10 minute walk. A great day with Edwin, who is so accommodating and friendly. I definitely recommend Edwin and Gravel Explore for this day tour.
Thank you so much, Dee, for sharing such a thoughtful and detailed review! I’m delighted to hear that you enjoyed the full journey, from the lively streets of Bordeaux to the calm bikeways leading us to Saint-Émilion. You did a fantastic job on the e-bike, and I’m glad the ride felt smooth and comfortable despite the first impression of its weight. 🚴♀️ It was a real pleasure preparing the picnic and sharing this adventure with you. Saint-Émilion truly is a special place, and I’m so happy the wine tasting and history added to the magic of the day. Your kind words and recommendation mean a lot, and I’d be thrilled to welcome you back for another gravel adventure in the Bordeaux region someday! 🍷 Best regards, Edwin
Such an incredible experience travelling through the French countryside. It’s not about the end but about the journey. Lunch was delicious, and the wine tasting was memorable. Edwin is a great guide, friendly and really knowledgeable about the area. Highly recommend, will remember this experience for years to come! Even braved the weather, rain, hail and shine☀️
Thank you so much for your amazing review, Andrew and Odelia! It was such a pleasure sharing this journey with you—from the charming streets of Bordeaux to the peaceful vineyards of Saint-Émilion. I love that you embraced the adventure rain, hail, and shine, true explorers' spirit! I’m really glad the lunch, the wine tasting, and the whole ride left you with great memories. For me, it’s always about more than just the destination, it’s about the people I meet and the shared moments along the way. You’re always welcome back for another ride through the French countryside! All the best, Edwin Gravel Explore
Thank you Edwin for a beautiful day. You were great! Very grateful for the experience. Your encouragement and positivity will stay with our memories.
Hello Teya, thank you so much for sharing your feedback. I am glad that you lived a great experience and you had a beautiful day =) Take care and enjoy your trip through Europe
Great experience, the journey is really fun! With Edwin who leads the trip very well!! The tasting part is really a plus in the activity! Thank you for this day
Bonjour Dimitri, Merci pour ce retour d'expérience, je suis ravi que vous ayez trouvé Super cette expérience en vélo Gravel =) C'est toujours un plaisir de faire découvrir des adresses authentiques à nos voyageurs. Au plaisir de vous accueillir pour une future expérience à vélo Gravel.
Landscapes, conviviality, culture and terroir, everything was there. Edwin was able to share his passion for gravel with us, a good discovery of this activity, accessible to all. A very nice walk in the vineyards with tasting at the castle. The return by train from Saint Emilion was very convenient
Bonjour Matthieu, je vous remercie d'avoir pris le temps de partager votre retour d'expérience et je suis ravi que celle-ci a été positive =) Au plaisir de vous accueillir pour une future expérience en vélo Gravel à la découverte de Bordeaux et sa magnifique région. Edwin
