Pic Saint-Loup: Full Day Wine and Olive Tour

Exploring the countryside around Montpellier through a full-day Pic Saint-Loup wine and olive oil tour offers a genuinely engaging way to taste the flavors of southern France. This private experience is designed for those who love scenic landscapes, high-quality wines, and regional delicacies, all served with a touch of French charm. For about $922 per couple, you’ll spend roughly seven hours visiting two distinguished wineries and an olive oil producer, enjoying a three-course traditional French meal, and soaking in some of the most captivating views in the Occitanie region.

What I find particularly appealing about this tour is its balance — it combines the sensory pleasures of tasting with the scenic tranquility of the countryside, all guided by knowledgeable local experts. I also love how flexible and private it feels, with a dedicated guide who makes sure you get personal attention and insider tips. That said, the main consideration is the price—while it’s a premium experience, the inclusion of transportation, multiple tastings, and a gourmet meal might justify the cost for lovers of wine-focused days. Just keep in mind that hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to Montpellier.

Another highlight is the variety of stops. Starting with a traditional oil mill, the tour showcases regional olive oils, giving you a taste of local craftsmanship. The visit to the first winery lets you peer into authentic cellars and enjoy a broad range of wines, while the scenic drive up to Pic Saint-Loup offers breathtaking views that make the entire day worth it. The second winery, added in the afternoon, cements this experience as a comprehensive exploration of the area’s vinicultural diversity. It’s a well-crafted itinerary for those who want to blend scenic beauty, culinary delights, and true regional authenticity.

Key points / Takeaways

• Personalized Private Group: The tour is designed for private groups up to two people, offering an intimate experience.
• Diverse Tastings: You’ll enjoy multiple wine tastings from two different estates, plus olive oils, giving a well-rounded taste of local products.
• Stunning Scenery: The drive around Pic Saint-Loup features panoramic views, perfect for photo enthusiasts or those craving peaceful landscapes.
• Gourmet Lunch: A 3-course meal made from seasonal, local ingredients at a charming inn adds value and authenticity.
• Expert Guides: The tour is led by guides fluent in English and French, ensuring engaging and informative commentary.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup is included from your Montpellier accommodation, although you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Day: Pickup and First Stop at the Oil Mill

Your day begins with a pickup in Montpellier, usually in the morning—exact times depend on availability. The first stop is a traditional olive oil mill, where you’ll learn about the art of olive oil production and taste regional specialties. This stop is especially appealing if you enjoy discovering local craftsmanship and want to see how regional oils differ from supermarket varieties. Many reviews, like Francois’s, noted that the olive oil tasting was a highlight and set a delicious tone for the day.

The First Winery: Authentic Cellars and Wine Tasting

Next, a short drive takes you to your first winery, a place where you’ll get an inside look at the winemaking process and taste an exceptional range of wines. The guided visit reveals the cellar’s secrets, and the tasting offers a chance to savor different styles, from crisp whites to fuller reds. Francois’s review mentions, “Nice tasting of olive oil and wine,” emphasizing the high quality of the products. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions and learn about the unique terroir of Pic Saint-Loup.

Scenic Drive to Pic Saint-Loup and Lunch

After the first wine stop, you’ll take a scenic drive to Pic Saint-Loup, one of the most striking landscapes in the region. The views are truly picture-worthy, with rolling vineyards dotted with stone-built estates, all against a backdrop of rugged limestone peaks. This is the perfect moment for a few photos or just to soak in the peaceful beauty.

At midday, a 3-course lunch is served at a local inn, featuring seasonal and regional ingredients. Many guests find it a real treat, especially with the leisurely pace and the chance to discuss the morning’s tastings over hearty, well-prepared dishes. The meal adds significant value, transforming the day from just a tasting tour into a full regional immersion.

Afternoon Wine Estate Visit: Deeper Dive into Pic Saint-Loup Wines

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a visit to another estate, this time from the famous Pic Saint-Loup wine area. This second tasting is often praised for its variety and depth—many reviewers appreciated the complementary nature of the tastings, offering new insights and flavors. The guided tour here lasts about 75 minutes, giving you time to explore the estate and ask questions.

Wrapping Up and Return to Montpellier

The tour concludes with a relaxed drive back to Montpellier around 4:30 PM. Many guests comment on how well-organized the day was, with pickups and drop-offs running smoothly. Francois mentions that the day was “well organized,” with an “easy meeting point” and departures on time—something not always guaranteed on group tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of Languedoc’s Pic Saint-Loup wines, paired with scenic landscapes and regional cuisine. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a personalized, relaxed day out. If you’re interested in olive oil as well as wine, this tour offers an added bonus, giving a comprehensive view of local agricultural crafts. Keep in mind that the price reflects a premium, private experience, so it’s best suited for those willing to invest in a high-quality, all-inclusive day.

If your travel style is about quality over quantity, enjoying good food and wine, and soaking in stunning views without feeling rushed, this tour hits the mark. For travelers looking for a deep dive into the local terroir with the comfort of private transport and expert guides, it’s a solid choice.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

At $922 for a group of two, this tour falls into the higher end of day-trip prices, but it includes transport, guide, multiple tastings, and a meal—all things you’d pay extra for if doing independently. The private nature ensures a tailored experience, and many reviews highlight the well-organized, smooth operation. The main consideration is that hotel pick-up isn’t included, so you’ll need to coordinate your own transfer to Montpellier, or meet at the designated spot.

The 7-hour duration—roughly from pickup to return—is a good balance, allowing time to fully enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. If you’re keen on exploring the Pic Saint-Loup region with a knowledgeable guide and prefer a curated experience, this tour offers solid value.

Final Thoughts

This Pic Saint-Loup wine and olive oil tour stands out for its beautiful scenery, authentic regional products, and personalized approach. It’s a wonderful way to spend a day outside Montpellier if you love tasting rich wines, enjoying peaceful landscapes, and dining on seasonal French fare. The stops feel well-chosen, with enough time to appreciate each part without dragging on. Plus, the small group or private format ensures a relaxed, engaging experience.

While the price might seem steep compared to self-guided tastings or group tours, the convenience and depth of experience make it worth considering, especially if you appreciate the finer things in life—good wine, great food, and stunning views. This tour is best suited for lovers of wine and regional cuisine who want a private, seamless day in the countryside.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour does not include hotel pick-up. You’ll need to coordinate your own transportation to the meeting point in Montpellier.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, from pickup to return, with scheduled stops and a lunch break.

What’s included in the price? The price covers transport, a guide, visits and tastings at two wineries, a visit to an olive oil mill, a three-course meal, and a glass of wine.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since there are tours of wineries and the olive oil mill that may involve some walking.

Is this tour available in multiple languages? Yes, guides speak both English and French, ensuring a comfortable experience for bilingual travelers.

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic snapshot of the Pic Saint-Loup region—perfect for those who want to enjoy France’s countryside, its wines, and its culinary delights all in one memorable day.