Saint-Émilion & Pomerol : Full day private tour classic car

Discovering the vineyards of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol in a classic French car offers an experience that’s both charming and immersive. This private full-day tour combines the allure of rolling Bordeaux vineyards with the nostalgia of a vintage Citroën 2CV convertible—something that immediately sets it apart from more traditional wine tours. Led by a passionate guide, Cecilia, and enhanced by visits to three top wineries, it promises not just wine tasting but a full cultural journey through one of France’s most celebrated wine regions.

What I love about this experience is the combination of authentic local charm and personalized attention. The private nature of the tour means you get tailored conversations and the chance to ask questions directly to experts. Plus, cruising through the vineyards in a 1960s turquoise Citroën 2CV offers a fun, memorable twist that makes this more than just a wine tasting day. A second highlight is the opportunity to enjoy a delicious picnic inside a château’s cellar, paired with Bordeaux cheese and cold meats—an authentic taste of French vineyard hospitality.

A small consideration is that the car’s size limits the group to just a few people, which is great for intimacy but might feel restrictive if you’re traveling with a larger group. Also, while the tour provides a thorough overview of the wine process and tastings at three different estates, the cost is around $397 per person. For some, that might seem high, but when you weigh in private transport, guided visits, and gourmet picnic, the value starts to look compelling—especially if you’re a wine enthusiast craving a personal touch and a bit of vintage fun.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Vintage Citroën 2CV Experience: Cruising through Bordeaux vineyards in a classic car makes this tour truly unique.
• Private, Expert-Guided Visits: Cecilia, a knowledgeable guide, offers personalized insight and answers all your wine-related questions.
• Visit to Three Wineries: From vineyard to cellar, you get an insider look and tastings at carefully selected estates.
• Authentic Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a gourmet meal inside a château’s cellar, featuring French cheeses, cold meats, baguette, and Bordeaux pastries.
• Stunning UNESCO Village: Explore the picturesque, medieval Saint-Émilion, including stops at viewpoints and a macaron factory.
• Memorable Scenic Route: The famous Route des Châteaux provides breathtaking views of the Bordeaux landscape in the convertible.

A Day in the Bordeaux Vineyards: A Complete Breakdown

The adventure begins at the Office de Tourisme et des Congrès de Bordeaux Métropole, where your private guide, Cecilia, greets you. From there, the day kicks off with a scenic drive in the iconic Citroën 2CV—a car that’s as charming as the region itself. If you’re like me, you’ll love the way the vintage car adds a playful, nostalgic vibe to the elegant vineyard landscape.

Your first stop is the UNESCO-listed Saint-Émilion village. This medieval gem isn’t just pretty; it’s historically significant and full of character. Cecilia’s expertise shines here, guiding you through the streets, stopping at viewpoints, and even visiting a macaron shop for a sweet local treat. The guided tour of Saint-Émilion lasts about an hour and gives you context about the town’s architectural charm and its reputation as a wine hub.

Next, you head to your first vineyard visit—an estate where you’ll see the entire process from vineyard fields to the cellar. Here, Cecilia’s passion for wine is contagious; she explains the nuances of terroir, grape varieties, and aging with clarity. The tasting of three wines allows you to appreciate the subtle differences and craftsmanship behind each glass. Visitors have commented that the staff at each estate are delightful and eager to share their knowledge.

The journey continues to Pomerol, a tiny but legendary appellation. You’ll visit another winery, learn about the distinct qualities that make Pomerol wines so sought after, and taste a selection. The reviews highlight how engaging the winery staff are, and some even note trying around 11-12 different wines during the day—an impressive feat for a day trip. The tasting here is about an hour, giving you ample time to savor and ask questions.

Midday, the tour takes a special turn with a picnic lunch inside a château cellar. Enjoy French cheese, cold meats, baguette, and Bordeaux pastries—simple yet authentic. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a moment of genuine vineyard hospitality. It’s clear from reviews that many find this picnic to be a highlight, especially as it’s paired with wines from the estate.

The final part of the day is a guided tour of Saint-Émilion. Cecilia walks you through the town’s hidden corners, stops at viewpoints, and shares stories that deepen your appreciation of the region’s history and wine culture. The tour concludes back at the starting point, with a map of the Bordeaux vineyards and a booklet on Bordeaux wines to take home as souvenirs.

Transportation in the vintage car adds an extra layer of enjoyment. The car is surprisingly comfortable, as one reviewer noted, and it makes the scenery even more picturesque. The flexibility of private transport means you can relax, soak in the views, and ask Cecilia all your wine questions without feeling rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers seeking a personal, authentic connection with Bordeaux’s top estates. If you enjoy vintage cars or want a fun, stylish way to explore vineyards, this is hard to beat. The private format makes it perfect for couples, small groups, or travelers craving a tailored experience with a knowledgeable guide.

It’s also well-suited for those interested in learning about wine—and not just tasting—since Cecilia explains vineyard processes from the ground up. The scenic drives, picturesque villages, and gourmet picnic add to the feeling of a leisurely, immersive day.

However, if you prefer a larger group or a more budget-friendly, less personalized experience, other tours might be more appropriate. The price reflects the exclusivity, private guiding, and the novelty of the vintage car, so consider whether these extras matter to your trip.

Price and Value Analysis

At approximately $397 per person, this tour is a splurge, but it’s packed with value. Private visits, expert guidance, three estate tastings, a gourmet picnic, and a vintage car ride combine to offer a memorable day that’s more than just a wine tasting. For lovers of style, history, and personalized experiences, it’s a worthwhile investment.

If you’re traveling with a small group or a partner, the intimacy and insider access make it feel like a bespoke journey. Considering the cost of private winery tours separately, this package’s all-inclusive nature, scenic drives, and added charm of the classic car justify the expense for many.

FAQ

What is included in the tour fee?
Your fee covers private transportation in a vintage Citroën 2CV, visits to three wineries, wine tastings, a picnic lunch with French cheese, cold meats, baguette, and Bordeaux pastries, and a guided tour of Saint-Émilion.

Can I start the tour from my hotel?
Yes, pickup is available at Bordeaux hotels, in Saint-Émilion, or Libourne, making it convenient to begin your day without extra hassle.

How long does each part of the tour last?
You’ll spend about 75 minutes in Saint-Émilion, an hour in Pomerol, and approximately 30 minutes for a second tasting back in Saint-Émilion. The winery visits and picnic take up the core part of the day, totaling around 7.5 hours.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or families?
While primarily a wine-focused experience, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic drives, sightseeing, and cultural insights. The age limit isn’t specified, but it’s best suited for adults interested in wine and French culture.

What makes the vintage Citroën 2CV special?
This car is iconic, especially in France. Its quirky style and open-top design make the journey fun and photogenic. Reviewers find it surprisingly comfortable and a true highlight of the day.

Can I customize the experience?
Cecilia and her team are passionate about regional tourism and happy to tailor tours if asked, aiming to create a memorable and personalized experience.

What about the wine purchases?
Wine and souvenirs bought during the visits are not included in the tour price, so you should plan accordingly if you wish to buy bottles or memorabilia.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol in a vintage Citroën offers a blend of authentic vineyard visits, expert-guided tastings, scenic drives, and French culinary delights. It’s perfect for those who crave a more personalized, stylish, and memorable way to explore Bordeaux’s wine country.

You’ll appreciate the depth of knowledge Cecilia brings, the relaxed pace, and the opportunity to take stunning photos along the route. The picnic adds a lovely touch of local flavor, making the whole day feel like a special treat rather than just another tour.

While the price might seem steep, the intimacy, unique transport, and quality of experiences justify it—especially if you’re keen on a bespoke, fun, and authentic Bordeaux adventure. This tour is best suited for couples, small groups, or passionate wine lovers eager for a day of discovery with a side of vintage charm.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to bring your curiosity—and maybe a camera!