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Saint-Émilion
Only 40 minutes from Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion is a veritable open-air museum. Known worldwide for its wine, the medieval town also has a rich history and heritage. Man has shaped the landscape here without ever transforming it. This is why, in 1999, the Jurisdiction of Saint-Émilion was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its cultural landscapes: a world first for a vineyard!
Saint-Émilion: a village of legends
According to legend, the village of Saint-Émilion was founded in the 8th century by a Breton monk who settled in a cave in Ascumbas, the ancient name of the town. Thanks to the growing fame of this monk, the town became an important place of pilgrimage and several religious communities settled there.
Many religious buildings are still visible today and can be visited with Saint-Émilion Souterrain & Saint-Émilion, UNESCO City.
World-renowned wines
To qualify for the AOC Saint-Émilion and/or Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellations, the vineyards must be located in a strictly defined area of the Saint-Émilion Jurisdiction, must scrupulously respect the established specifications and produce red wine.
The prestigious classification of the wines of Saint-Émilion comes to reward the wines of the appellation Saint-Émilion Grand Cru. Revised every 10 years, it distinguishes 3 categories:
1er Grand Cru Classé A - 2 châteaux: Château Figeac and Château Pavie
1er Grand Cru Classé - 12 châteaux
Grand Cru Classé - 71 châteaux
Walks in the UNESCO vineyard
By car, bicycle or on foot, there are many ways to discover the vineyards... Here are a few ideas to make the most of your Saint-Emilion escapade:
Châteaux of the day
Difficult to choose a château to visit? The Tourist Office will help you make your choice! Every day, find between 2 and 4 wine estates open to the public and ready to help you discover the secrets of the vine and wine with a tasting session.
Bike rental
Ride through the vineyards in complete freedom by renting a bike. Some fifteen cycling routes are available from the Tourist Office or can be downloaded.
Stroll and tasting in Saint-Emilion
This walk, proposed on the weekend and on public holidays from May to the end of August, allows you to discover the vineyard of Saint-Emilion and to learn more about the appellations, the classification, the châteaux... all of course with a visit to the property and a tasting.
Saint-Emilion in family
Visits and treasure hunts specially dedicated to children await you in Saint-Emilion, whether in the town or in the village of Sainte-Terre:
Tell me about Saint-Émilion: 3 visits, 3 themes for an educational introduction to the heritage of the medieval town. (Wednesdays during the school holidays)
On Robin's trail: UNESCO, heritage, lamprey or gastronomy: choose your theme! Robin will help you discover the richness of the area through the game support given free of charge at the Tourist Office.
Tips for your visit
To prepare your visit effectively, visit the website of the Tourist Office of the Grand Saint-Emilion area!
To take full advantage of the cobbled and sometimes steep streets, we recommend that you wear comfortable shoes without heels.
The difference in temperature between the outside and the cellars or underground monuments can be significant depending on the season. Don't hesitate to bring something to cover up.
