In the Gironde region of southwestern France, Maison Vinicole is set amongst the vines only a 10-minute drive from the beautiful hilltop town of Saint-Émilion and its world-famous vineyards.
Surrounded by working vineyards and close to a small hamlet, walk along country roads to a traditional wine village, around 1.5km away, with a bistro, butchers, grocery store and pharmacy. Even closer, two public tennis courts are located very close to Maison Vinicole, a short walk away, and the owners will provide the entry code as well as racquets and balls.
There are larger supermarkets in and around Castillon-la-Bataille (10.5km) and the larger town of Libourne (16km) – both places also host wonderful markets (the Sunday morning market in Libourne is highly regarded in the area). Meanwhile, there is a bakery and other amenities in Lussac (5.5km).
Of course, vineyard visits and wine-tastings can be arranged including wineries in the immediate area (the village is known for producing an excellent red wine, mostly Merlot) and across the Saint-Émilion wine region and beyond. This is also a great location for sampling the wines of Pomerol just to the north of Saint-Émilion whilst the city of Bordeaux is less than an hour away by car (or take the train from Gare de Saint-Émilion).
Of course, the close proximity to Saint-Émilion (8km) is one of the greatest highlights of the location. Be captivated by Saint-Émilion’s historic charm as you explore its narrow cobbled lanes, dine out in gastronomic restaurants and try Bordeaux’s finest appellations in characterful wine bars. Organise a guided tour to learn all about the incredible history of the town and its surroundings - the Monolithic church and catacombs are especially fascinating.
Heading south is the market town of Castillon-la-Bataille (10.5km) by the banks of the Dordogne whilst riverside Sainte-Foy-la-Grande (32km) is just half an hour away, loved for its atmospheric Saturday morning market. Discover canoeing and kayaking along the Dordogne as well as ample opportunities for cycling, walking, hiking and even hot-air balloon rides across this glorious part of southwestern France.
If arriving by aeroplane, fly into Bordeaux Merignac (60km) or Bergerac Airport (55km), both with international arrivals, or take the TGV from Paris to Libourne or Bordeaux – the fastest services from Paris Montparnasse to Bordeaux take just over 2 hours!
The Region
One of France’s most iconic hilltop towns, Saint-Émilion is waiting to enchant wine enthusiasts, gastronomes, keen historians and Francophiles in so many different ways. With its UNESCO World Heritage vineyards, visitors will have the opportunity to sample AOC wines from one of the most famous and historic wine-growing regions in the world.
Start off by exploring the cobbled lanes of Saint-Émilion as you admire its beautiful architecture and churches – its origins date back to the 8th century. One of the most impressive sites is the 12th century stone-carved Monolithic church, the largest of its kind in Europe, a truly astonishing masterpiece – a guided tour of the church and catacombs is a must.
As well as the town’s famous Merlot, try Crémant de Bordeaux at Les Cordeliers, once a monastery that was brought by a winemaker in the 19th century – enjoy a glass of sparkling wine overlooking the cloister garden. Food lovers note there are several excellent restaurants including Michelin star establishments (Logis de la Cadène and La Table de Pavie are two famous names). Look out for French macarons as well - Saint-Émilion claims to be the birthplace of this delicious sweet treat.
Of course, wine tours and tastings can be arranged across the Saint-Émilion wine-growing region. There are so many to choose from, from small family-run vineyards to prestigious wine châteaux, and it’s fantastic to be able to buy such excellent wines directly from local producers. Wine connoisseurs note that the neighbouring Pomerol wine appellation should also be included on your itinerary for longer stays.
Meanwhile, explore the idyllic landscapes by bike, a wonderful way to appreciate the beauty of Saint-Émilion’s vineyards, or enjoy a hot-air balloon ride to capture the scenery below. A little further afield, canoe or kayak along the Dordogne near Castillon-la-Bataille, experience the vibrant markets of Libourne and travel to the great wine city of Bordeaux for another amazing day out in this captivating part of southwestern France.
