7 days
From US $2,395
Self-guided Chateaux and Vineyards of Bordeaux
Pedal through the heart of Bordeaux’s most iconic wine regions on this immersive six-day cycling trip. Begin in Bordeaux’s charming streets before riding into the Médoc, famous for bold reds. Cross the Gironde estuary to reach Blaye and Bourg, then cycle toward the elegant vineyards of Saint-Émilion. Sample local wines, soak in vineyard views, and stay in handpicked guesthouses full of character.
Traverse the sweet wine region of Cadillac before looping back to Bordeaux through rolling green hills. Each day blends scenic routes, wine tasting, and rich cultural heritage, making this journey a delicious and unforgettable ride through Southwest France.
Self-guided
Casual+ hotels
Bordeaux
Bordeaux
easy to moderate
42 km / 26 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 10
Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD)
Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD)
Highlights
Ride Through Legendary Wine Regions such as Medoc and Cadillac
Explore iconic names like Médoc, Saint-Émilion, and Cadillac, pedaling through lush vineyards producing world-renowned reds, whites, and sweet wines.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual_plus Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Bordeaux | Hotel La Zoologie (4-star) | B | ||
| DAY 2 | Médoc | Domaine de Quittignan Brillette | B | 52 km / 32 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Bourg-sur-Gironde | Sas Chateau Camponac | B | 30 km / 19 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Saint-Emilion | Château Fombrauge | B | 45 km / 28 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Saint-Emilion | Chateau Fombrauge | B | 25 km / 16 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Cadillac | Château Bel Air | B | 47 km / 29 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Bordeaux | Hotel La Zoologie (4-star) | B | 52 km / 32 mi | cycling |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Bordeaux
Arrive in Bordeaux and soak in the charm of this elegant city known for its wine, history and lively streets. Before checking into your welcoming hotel near the train station or city center, wander past the shimmering water mirror, the grand column of the Girondins or the bustling Capucins market. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon discovering Bordeaux’s hidden corners.
In the evening, take your bike for a gentle spin and breathe in the anticipation of the days ahead. Savor local flavors, explore a cozy café or simply unwind before settling in for a restful night in beautiful Bordeaux.
Day 2: Médoc
Leave the city behind and follow the Garonne River into the heart of the Médoc, one of Bordeaux’s most iconic wine regions. Pedal through peaceful countryside lined with vineyards, châteaux and quiet villages. The landscape shifts from urban to rural, with open skies and rows of Merlot and Cabernet vines stretching into the distance.
Stop to admire the scenery or enjoy a spontaneous wine tasting. Savor the bold character of Médoc reds and breathe in the aromas of sun-warmed vines. As the day winds down, the gentle quiet of the vineyards sets the perfect tone for the days ahead.
Day 3: Bourg-sur-Gironde
Begin the day with a short ferry ride across the Gironde estuary, leaving the Médoc behind and entering the rolling landscapes of the Blaye and Bourg regions. Cycle through peaceful backroads dotted with small wineries, thick stone walls and leafy vineyards. The wines here offer rich notes of red fruits, spice and chocolate, inviting you to pause and taste along the way.
Gentle hills rise and fall, revealing sweeping views of the river and countryside. The pace feels relaxed and full of character, with each turn bringing new scents, flavors and glimpses into Bordeaux’s lesser-known but deeply soulful wine country.
Day 4: Saint-Emilion
Pedal into the celebrated Libournais region, home to the legendary names of Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. Vineyards stretch across rolling hills, framed by rivers, stone châteaux and centuries-old terraces. The route flows through quiet lanes, where each curve reveals new layers of beauty and history. Arrive in the medieval village of Saint-Émilion, where cobbled streets, ancient walls and hilltop views create a magical setting.
Take time to explore its wine cellars, charming shops and remarkable architecture. With every taste and turn, the day offers a deep connection to the land, its traditions and the world-class wines it continues to inspire.
Day 5: Saint-Emilion
Today's cycling is optional, and you are free to spend an unhurried day in one of France’s most celebrated wine towns.
Wander the medieval streets, explore the 14th-century Cloître des Cordeliers, and visit the remarkable Monolithic Church carved entirely into limestone, along with its ancient catacombs. Climb the Royal Tower for panoramic vineyard views, then stop at the former Ursuline convent to taste the town’s original almond macaroons.
In the afternoon, tour nearby châteaux, sampling Merlot-rich wines paired with local specialties. Whether on foot or by bike through the rolling vineyards, this extra day offers the perfect blend of history, wine, and gastronomy, ending with a golden sunset over Saint-Émilion’s rooftops.
Day 6: Cadillac
Ride into the gentle landscapes of the Entre-Deux-Mers region, where lush hills and golden vines frame the path toward Cadillac. This area is known for its sweet white wines, warm stone villages and peaceful rhythm. Pass sunflower fields, quiet rivers and family-run estates tucked into the hills.
The route invites a slower pace, perfect for soaking up the views and pausing for tastings. In Cadillac, history meets charm in its old bastide streets and elegant ducal château. The vineyards seem to roll on forever, offering a golden farewell to a week filled with flavor, discovery and unforgettable moments.
Day 7: Bordeaux
Set off from Cadillac and enjoy a final ride through the serene countryside, where vines and valleys give way to views of the Garonne River. The route offers gentle climbs and shaded paths, with fresh air and soft light guiding you back toward Bordeaux. Along the way, pass Sauvignon and Sémillon vineyards known for their crisp white wines.
As the city skyline reappears, reflect on the landscapes, flavors and quiet joy of cycling through wine country. Return to Bordeaux with a full heart, a curious palate and lasting memories of roads lined with vines and stories.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.
Hôtel La Zoologie
Hôtel La Zoologie blends Art Deco charm with modern comfort in the heart of Bordeaux. Located near the Saint-Jean train station, it offers elegant rooms, a rooftop bar, spa facilities and a lush garden. The building, once a science faculty, now features striking architecture and thoughtful design. After a day of travel or sightseeing, unwind in style and enjoy fine cuisine at the hotel’s sophisticated brasserie.
Dates and Prices
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $120
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
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Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
Arcade Escape or similar
Included in your trip price
Arcade Performance or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Your tour starts and end in Bordeaux, easily accessible by both air and rail.
If flying, you will land at Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD), located about 12 km from the city center. From the airport, you can take the 30’Direct shuttle bus, which connects the terminal to Bordeaux’s main train station (Gare Saint-Jean) in approximately 30 minutes. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available and take a similar amount of time depending on traffic.
If you are travelling by train, Gare Saint-Jean is the main railway hub with frequent high-speed TGV connections from Paris (around 2 hours), as well as regular services from Toulouse, Lyon, and other major cities. From the train station, the city center is just a short tram or taxi ride away.
Weather
The best weather for cycling the Wine Roads of Bordeaux is from late April to mid-June and mid-September to mid-October. During these months, temperatures range between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), offering mild warmth without the intense summer heat. Days are generally sunny or lightly breezy, and the countryside is lush and vibrant. These shoulder seasons also bring fewer tourists, quieter vineyard visits and comfortable cycling conditions. Summer can reach 30°C (86°F) or more and may feel too hot for long rides, while winter tends to be chilly and rainy. Spring and early autumn offer the ideal balance.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Best
May
Best
June
Best
July
Good
August
Good
September
Best
October
Best
November
Mixed
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
Yes, we can provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Yes, panniers will be provided.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
