Explore Saint Emilion (Ending in Pauillac)

Admire the architectural treasures in Saint-Emilion, a medieval village and UNESCO World Heritage site, and then savor a private wine tasting at a nearby estate.

After departing from the pier, you will settle in for a picturesque ride toward Saint-Emilion, a region revered for its outstanding wines and natural beauty. The area and its namesake village have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site because Saint-Emilion represents a historic vineyard landscape that has survived intact. Viticulture was introduced here by the Romans and then greatly enhanced in the Middle Ages.

Once you arrive in Saint-Emilion, the guide will lead you to landmarks such as the ancient arched gate over Rue Cadene, one of the roads into the medieval village. You will also see the towering 13th-century King’s Keep and the Collegiate Church, whose construction in the Romanesque style began even earlier. Its cloister is particularly serene.

During free time that follows, you can explore Saint-Emilion even deeper. Fashionable boutiques, wine shops and stores selling gourmet cheeses are abundant. While wine and cheese samples may be available, a more comprehensive private tasting awaits you at a nearby estate.

After an enlightening tour of the vineyards, you will settle in to sample some of the region’s finest wines, which are predominately made from Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes. The local soil composition is filled with sand and clay, which fosters the creation of rich, savory wines. During the tasting, you will learn about the wines’ complexity and their production.

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.