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April is a vibrant month in Bordeaux. The weather starts to warm up, flowers bloom, and many places reopen for the summer season. It’s also one of the best times to explore Bordeaux and its surroundings before the crowds arrive.

If you’re looking for ideas of what’s happening this month, you’ll find a curated list of the best events in Bordeaux and the region below. And if you want help planning your time in the city, my Bordeaux Map brings together my favorite spots to eat, drink, and explore. Let’s dive into the top things to do in Bordeaux this April.

The best events in the Bordeaux region in April 2026

Itinéraires des Photographes Voyageurs – photography festival

The 34th edition of the “Traveling Photographers Routes” festival will take place on April 1-26. During one month, 10 photography exhibitions will be presented at the main cultural institutions in the city, among them, the Rocher de Palmer in Cenon, the Bibliothèque in Meriadeck, Espace Saint-Rémi, and others. Get the full list of all artists and more info about the event here.

Treasure Hunt on Pâques Weekend

The first weekend of April is the long weekend of Easter in France, and the area of Bordeaux offers plenty of activities to entertain you and your kids. Egg hunting, visits to beautiful chateaux, and chocolate workshops are only some of the activities you could do this weekend.

You can find all the best events taking place on Easter weekend around Bordeaux in my article, as well as in my newsletter (subscribe here).

Treasure hunt in Bordeaux - Easter weekendx

Festival Cinémarges

Festival Cinémarges is an annual independent and queer film festival that explores issues of gender and sexuality. This year, the festival takes place on April 1-8 in venues like the Utopia movie theater and the CAPC museum. Take a look at the program.

Adrenaline by L’Orangeade 

The ADRÉNALINE festival (April 3-5) in Bordeaux features 30 artists, electrifying performances, and thrilling sports activities at Place des Quinconces. L’Orangeade is a collective of passionate music lovers who have been organizing some of Bordeaux’s best music events in the last few years. For more info click here.

Grande Brocante Antiquites À Rauzan

Every year, the village of Rauzan in the Entre-deux-Mers region hosts one of the best brocantes (an antiques/ flea market) in the SW of France. This year, the big market will take place on April 3-6. See all the details here.

Week-end des Vins Vivants

On April 4-5, the town of Monségur in Entre-deux-Mers is hosting a wine festival. The event is dedicated to organic and natural wines. See all the participating wineries here.

Le printemps de Soulac

Soulac Sur Mer, the beautiful village in the Medoc region, is celebrating the start of Spring on the long weekend of April 4-6. The program includes a flower market, concerts on the streets, a wine fair, and more. See the fool program here.

Territoires Sauvages – Nature Festival

Territoires Sauvages is a nature festival that will take place at the Halle du Port in Teich (Arcachon Bay) on April 3-6. You’re invited to spend your Easter weekend discovering the natural treasures of the region. For more info, click here.

Bobine de fil 

A free kids theatre festival taking place at Salle des fêtes du Grand Parc in Bordeaux on April 9-12. See the program here.

The Blaye Spring Wine Festival

The Blaye Spring Wine Festival will take place on April 11-12 at the Blaye Citadel. The annual wine festival brings together more than 100 winemakers. The program includes discovery workshops (introduction to tasting, mixing, and food and wine pairing), guided visits to the citadel by train or horse, and more. For the full program here.

The Blaye Spring Wine Festival
The Blaye Spring Wine Festival – Lost in Bordeaux

For more open-door events in Bordeaux, go to my Portes Ouvertes guide.

Fête les Vins kms de Saint-Emilion 

Les Vins Kms de Saint-Emilion is a walking and running race of 12 km, 21km, and 42k, taking place around the stunning village of Saint Emilion. The event, taking place on April 12, starts at Château Soutard, one of Saint Emilion’s most popular wineries. See the full programhere. Check out my article aboutall the wineries I recommend visiting in Saint Emilion.

Les Grandes Heures de Saint-Emilion

Les Grandes Heures de Saint-Emilion is a series of concerts and exhibitions taking at different wine chateaux in Saint Emilion. The events always include wine tasting which makes them even more attractive :). . You can see the program and book your tickets here.

A romantic winery accomofdation - Chateau de Ferrand in Saint Emilion
Chateau de Ferrand in Saint Emilion – Lost in Bordeaux

Printemps de la Forêt du Bourgailh

Like every year, the city of Pessac invites you to celebrate spring at the Forêt du Bourgailh. This year, the event will take place on April 18-19. See more details here.

Salon Nautique d’Arcachon

The big Salon Nautique d’Arcachon will take place the weekend of April 17-19 at the Port de Plaisance d’Arcachon. More than 170 exhibitors will participate in the Salon, with 450 boats stationed all over the port. For more details, click here.

Salon du Vintage

The annual vintage salon will take place in Darwin on April 25-26. This chic event will gather more than 50 exhibitors with a great selection of accessories, furniture, vinyl records, classic cars, jukeboxes, paintings, and more. For more details, check the website of the event.

Les Cogitations

Les Cogitations is a mocking art festival taking place in the L’entrepot in Le Haillan on April 23-25. Check out the full list of performers here.

Open doors at Lalande de Pomerol

An open-door weekend at the châteaux of the Lalande de Pomerol appellation will take place on April 25-26. During the weekend, the châteaux of this appellation will offer plenty of activities such as guided tours, tastings, and markets. The list of chateaux will be published here soon.

Chateau Siaurac in Lalande de Pomerol
Chateau Siaurac in Lalande de Pomerol – by LiB

Festival Imagin’Ere

A creative festival will take place on April 24-26 at the little village of Captieux in South Girodne. The program includes plenty of concerts, spectacles, artistic makeup, and plenty of games. For more details, click here.

Fête de l’Asperge du Blayais

La Fête de l’Asperge du Blayais in Etauliers is a big event celebrating asparagus and its farmers. More than 8000 visitors are expected to stroll along with the 50 exhibitors of local delights and enjoy the activities offered to both adults and kids (make-up sessions, mini farm, pony rides, and more). The event is taking place on April 25-26 at the center of Etauliers. The full program will be published soon.

Search for beautiful antiques at the Brocante

The big brocante of Bordeaux is hosted twice a year at Place des Quinconces with 200 antique dealers, horticulturists, restaurants, and craftsmen. It’s the biggest brocante event in the area and the selection is huge, from vintage home decor to paintings, antique furniture, garden accessories, and more. 

The market is taking place from April 24 to May 10. For more info and the list of exhibitors, click here.

Brocante de Bordeaux - one of the best events in Bordeaux
Brocante de Bordeaux – Lost in Bordeaux

Big events in other parts of the SW of France 

International Festival of Kites and Wind 

Every year, Châtelaillon-Plage, the lovely beach town just next to La Rochelle, hosts a big kite festival. This year the festival will be taking place on April 4-6. See more details here.

Sidéral Festival 

Sideral is an electronic music festival that is about to take place in Capbreton (Les Landes) on April 17-18. See more info here.

Marché aux Fleurs 

The pretty town of Duras is hosting a big flower market on April 19. For more details, click here.

Foire au Jambon à Bayonne

Like every year, Bayonne will celebrate its famous ham with a big fair called, Foire au Jambon. The event will take place on April 23-26. See all the details here

Winestock Festival

The Winestock Festival is a wine-gastronomic festival taking place in the villages of Monestier and Thénac in Dordogne. The program of the event includes concerts, tastings, workshops, a wine fair, masterclasses, and more. The event will take place on April 24-26. See all the details here.

Châteaux En Fête

Châteaux En Fête is one of the best events the Dordogne department has to offer. 90 castles all over Dordogne will open their doors to visitors and offer guided visits, activities, and festive evenings. The Châteaux En Fête event will take place from April 11 to May 3.  See the list of chateaux and their programs here.

Is it your first time in Bordeaux? If it is you should definitely check out my ultimate guide to Bordeaux to get familiar with all the must-see places in the city. To help you choose a hotel, I’ve gathered a list of the best hotels in the center of Bordeaux as well as a guide to the districts of Bordeaux to help you find your preferred AirBnB location.

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

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With thousands of châteaux in Bordeaux, choosing where to visit can be overwhelming. Luckily, throughout the year, many appellations host Portes Ouvertes weekends, offering free tastings, tours, and family-friendly activities.

This article lists all upcoming open-door weekends in chronological order. If you’re visiting outside these dates, many châteaux still offer tastings by appointment. I’ve also included my favorite wineries in each appellation. Since most are only accessible by car, check out my guide on visiting Bordeaux wineries by public transport!

Open doors in the Médoc wine region

The first open-door event of the year is always the Portes Ouvertes weekend in Médoc! During the festive weekend, you can visit plenty of châteaux in the Medoc region and taste some of the finest wines in the world. I usually update you about the event and the wineries you can visit in this article.
In 2026, the event will take place on March 28-29.

If you wish to make this trip an unforgettable experience, you should go on the Medoc wine road trip that includes all the wonders this area of Gironde has to offer. I personally did the Medoc wine route a few years ago and wrote a very detailed article about it, read it here

Medoc portes ouvertes - open doors in the chateaux of Bordeaux
Chateau d’Arsac

Recommended wineries in Medoc you can visit all year long 

Château du Taillan (book a visit here), which is owned by 5 sisters, is one of the closest wineries to Bordeaux. Château d’Arsac, is one of the most beautiful properties in Medoc with an extravagant display of art in its enormous gardens (book a visit here). Closer to Margaux you have the charming family-run Chateau Siran (book a visit here), Chateau Kirwan (book a visit here), or the beautiful Chateau Marquis de Terme (book a visit here). 
You can read about more amazing wineries to visit in Medoc in my article, and about different ways to get there in this article.

The Blaye Spring Wine Festival

The Blaye Spring Wine Festival is usually the first event to start the wine festival season in the Bordeaux region. The event takes place at the Blaye citadel at the beginning of April, bringing together more than 80 winemakers from the Blaye appellation. The program includes discovery workshops (introduction to tasting, mixing, and food and wine pairing), guided visits to the citadel, and more. For the full program, click here.

In 2026, le Printemps des Vins de Blaye will be taking place on April 11-12.

Open doors at Lalande de Pomerol

Another Open Doors weekend in April is taking place at the Lalande de Pomerol appellation. A neighbor to the highly prestigious wines of Pomerol and Saint Emilion, this appellation produces some great wines you’d enjoy discovering.

In 2026, the event will take place on April 25-26; the list of chateaux will be published here soon.

Recommended wineries in Lalande de Pomerol you can visit all year long 

Château Siaurac is one of the best wineries to visit in that part of Bordeaux’s wine region (check out their website). A bit less famous but also a great estate to visit is Château Tournefeuille (Book your visit here).

Open doors in Saint-Emilion

Saint Emilion, the most famous wine appellation in Bordeaux, celebrates its open-door weekend at the beginning of May. The weekend will include many activities such as wine tastings, visits to the chateaux, games for kids, and bike rides. The full program for the participating châteaux, the activities, and the wine tasting proposed for that weekend will be published here. You can also plan your trip to this wine region with my detailed guide to Saint Emilion.

In 2025, the event will take place on May 1-3.

Recommended wineries in Saint Emilion you can visit all year long 

You can see many of my recommended chateaux in this article -> best chateaux to visit in Saint Emilion
Learn about the wineries in Saint Emilion that you can visit by public transport.

Open doors in the Côtes de Bourg appellation

Ô Chais is the annual open-door event of the Côtes de Bourg appellation, located along the Dordogne River before it meets the Gironde estuary. While less famous than Saint-Émilion or Médoc, Côtes de Bourg produces excellent wines worth discovering when visiting Bordeaux. Details on participating châteaux will be shared here soon. 
In 2026, the event takes place on May 9-10.

Château le Clos de Notaire  in Bourg
Château le Clos de Notaire

Recommended wineries in Bourg you can visit all year long 

One of my favorite châteaux in Bourg is Château le Clos de Notaire with its amazing view (see their website).

Open doors at the châteaux of Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux

Another smaller and less known appellation in Bordeaux wine is Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux. This appellation has a very active Maison du Vin which organizes an annual open-door event every June, with close to 40 participating chateaux. The list of participating Chateaux will be published soon.

In 2026, the event is happening on June 6-7.

Grand Crus Weekend

One of the most anticipated events in Bordeaux’s wine world is the Grand Crus Weekend which usually takes place in June.  This event, organized by the Union des Grands Crus (the regional wine classification), aims to create an international meeting of wine lovers. The highlight of this weekend is the major wine-tasting event with more than 100 Grand Crus where you get to meet different chateaux owners. Read more about the event and the full program here.
In 2026, the event will take place on June 5-7.

If you want to visit some of the Grand Cru châteaux in Bordeaux, here are a few recommended ones:

In Saint Emilion: Chateau Franc Mayne (Book your visit here) and Chateau Beau Sejour Becot (Book your visit here). In Pessac and Leognan: Château Larrivet Haut Brion (Book your visit here), Château Pape Clement (Book your visit here), and Château Latour Martillac (Book your visit here).In Medoc: Château La Tour Carnet  (Book your visit here), Chateau Fourcas Hosten (Book your visit here), and Chateau de Camensac (Book your visit here). 

Portes Ouvertes de l’Appellation Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux

The Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux appellation kicks off autumn with its annual open-door event in early September. Unlike larger appellations with multiple château visits, this intimate event is typically held at the stunning Château de Pitray, featuring stands from smaller producers. The dates and details of the 2026 event will be published here.

Château de Pitray- Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux - open doors
Château de Pitray- Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux

Open doors in the Chateaux of Graves

Graves is another famous sub-region of Bordeaux wine, located on the left bank of the Garonne River. It’s a huge appellation that includes within itself a few other appellations like Pessac Leognan, which often participate in the Open Doors weekend as well. The event usually takes place in October with more than 70 participating chateaux. The program and dates will be published here

If you want to visit Graves at any other time, I highly recommend visiting Chateau de Portets (book your tour here).

Portes ouvertes in Fronsac

Another great wine to try in Bordeaux is Fronsac & Canon Fronsac and their Portes Ouvertes is a good opportunity to do just that. The event usually takes place at the end of October with more than 30 chateaux hosting people for free tastings, guided tours, and more. One of the main events is taking place at the magnificent Château de la Rivière. The info about the next event will be published here

Château de la Rivière in Fronsac - vin de Bordeaux
Château de la Rivière in Fronsac

Recommended wineries in Fronsac you can visit all year long 

Château de la Rivière is probably one of the most interesting wineries to visit in the region (Book your tour here) however, there are other great places to visit, such as Chateau de la Dauphine with its impressive vat room (book your visit here) and Chateau George 7 with their fun summer terrace (see all the info here). 

Open doors in the Chateaux of Sauternes et Barsac

Sauternes and Barsac are two prestigious wine areas, famous for their sweet white wines. Their annual open-door weekend usually takes place in mid-November. What makes this weekend quite special is the Sauternes region has some of the most stunning properties in the area, so the visit is guaranteed to be interesting even if you’re not a wine lover. You can find the full program here

The 2026 dates will be published soon!

the best wineries in Sauternes and Barsac

Recommended wineries in Sauternes you can visit all year long 

Château Guiraud is one of the most beautiful estates in Sauternes and often hosts interesting events (book your visit here). Also, don’t miss the magnificent Château Lafaurie-Peyrague and its Michelin restaurant (book your visit here). Another fun option is the Château d’Arche (Book you visit here). Another amazing vineyard to visit in Barsac is Chateau de Myrat (book your visit here).

Portes Ouvertes in Pomerol

Pomerol, one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious appellations, hosts a lesser-known Open Doors Weekend in late November. Unlike other events, it’s all about the wine—few châteaux offer tours, but exceptional tastings are guaranteed. Participating châteaux will be listed here.

The 2026 dates will be published soon!

Château Beauregard - Pomerol- portes ouvertes
Château Beauregard – Pomerol

Recommended wineries in Pomerol you can visit all year long 

Château Beauregard has one of the most impressive VAT rooms I have ever seen and is one of the best places to visit in Pomerol (see info about visits here). Château de Sales is another magnificent chateau to visit, and they offer many different activities on and around their property (book a visit here)

Les Journées Gourmandes Loupiac & Foie Gras

Les Journées Gourmandes Loupiac & Foie Gras is a great opportunity to get familiar with the sweet wines of Loupiac, meet the farmers of the department, and taste their gourmet production. The event always takes place on the last weekend of November. See the list of participants here.  

The 2026 dates will be published soon!

Open Doors in the Châteaux of Pessac-Léognan

The Pessac-Léognan appellation is usually the one closing the year with its Open Doors weekend in December. This event includes tens of wineries that offer wine tastings, tours, gourmet food, and activities for kids. All the information about the event is published on this website.

The 2026 dates will be published soon!

Pessac is a beautiful little town near Bordeaux so if you want to spend the day there, check out my article about it

Chateau pape Clement Pessac
Chateau pape Clement

Recommended wineries in Pessac and Leognan you can visit all year long 

Château Larrivet Haut Brion (Book your visit here), Château Pape Clement (Book your visit here), and Château Latour Martillac (Book your visit here), as well as the renowned Château les Carmes Haut-Brion (info about visits here).

See other wineries in Pessac Leognan reachable by public transport from Bordeaux.

I gave you a lot of information to process here, in hopes that it will help you choose the best time to come to Bordeaux. If you’re interested in more events taking place in Bordeaux, don’t forget to check out my monthly lists and subscribe to my newsletter where I update you about all the best things to do in Bordeaux and the region every weekend. 

Cheers everyone! 

*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

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When you choose Bordeaux as your travel destination, its famous wine region is likely one of the main attractions. Visiting wineries is a must, but staying in a vineyard hotel elevates the experience to something truly special. If that sounds appealing, keep reading to find the best places to stay in the Bordeaux wine region.

Around Bordeaux, you’ll find an array of fantastic wine hotels. Cozy spots nestled in the vineyards, run by passionate winemakers eager to share their craft. This experience doesn’t have to be luxurious or expensive. My list includes everything from five-star hotels to family-owned B&Bs. Each offers stunning views and welcoming staff, ensuring an unforgettable stay. For more articles about visiting wineries in Bordeaux click here. Let’s start.

Luxury accommodation in the vineyards of Bordeaux

Les Sources de Caudalie – the Pessac Leognan wine appellation

If you’re ready to splurge on a heavenly stay, Les Sources de Caudalie is perfect. Nestled in the luxurious Château Smith Haut Lafitte vineyards, this property blends rustic charm with modern comfort, thanks to owners Alice and Jérôme Tourbier. Each suite is uniquely designed with antique furniture and mood lighting.

You won’t need to leave for good food, as the hotel offers a two-star Michelin restaurant, a bistro, a bar, and a grocery store. For an unforgettable experience, enjoy wine tastings, spa treatments, bike rides, and kid-friendly forest adventures. For a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere in the stunning Pessac-Léognan area, Les Sources de Caudalie is the place to be –  book your stay here.

Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey Hôtel & Restaurant Lalique in Sauternes 

Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey offers the perfect blend of vineyard charm and golfing elegance. This five-star hotel also features a Michelin-starred restaurant, making it a top destination. One of the highlights is the warm welcome from the “Maitresse de Maison,” who tailors each guest’s stay to their preferences. This personalized touch ensures a memorable experience.

Le Grand Noble, the Michelin-starred restaurant designed by Mario Botta, offers not only gourmet cuisine but also breathtaking vineyard views through its wall-to-wall windows, creating a dining experience like no other.

Guests can also enjoy traditional wine tours, including discovery tours, food and wine pairings, and private visits. Check all their tours here
Book your luxury stay here.

Château Prieure Marquet in the north of Gironde

Château Prieuré Marquet is a luxurious hotel just 20 minutes from Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. This gem, crafted by talented designers and antique enthusiasts, offers uniquely decorated living rooms with distinct ambiances. The château features a central courtyard surrounded by four narrow sides, providing a royal experience. With only six rooms, each guest enjoys a spacious and unique stay.

The property boasts an outdoor pool, gardens, and terraces. Guests can rent bikes, play billiards, enjoy the baby grand piano, or arrange horseback riding, off-roading, and helicopter rides. There’s also a world-class spa and an on-site restaurant. Book your stay here.

And now to more affordable accommodation in the Vineyards of Bordeaux!

Best wine hotels and B&Bs in Saint Emilion 

I have a full article dedicated to hotels in Saint Emilion, perfect for a weekend getaway. Here, though, I want to spotlight two incredible hotels surrounded by stunning vineyard views.

Chateau Troplong Mondot

Nestled amidst the lush vineyards of Saint Emilion, Chateau Troplong Mondot is one of the most luxurious accommodations in the heat of the wine region. This esteemed chateau provides four types of rooms, each exquisitely designed, alongside an elegant living area perfect for gatherings. Perched on a hilltop, Troplong Mondot offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, the valley, and the charming village of Saint-Emilion. The Chateau is also home to one of the best restaurants in the region, called Les Belles Perdrix. Book your stay here.

Château Croix de Labrie

This charming château is located at the entrance of the historic village of Saint Emilion. It has a countryside atmosphere, making a stay there warm and relaxing. There are two suites available, both with luxury bathrooms that overlook the inner courtyard of the property and the vineyard.

The owners, Axelle and Pierre Courdurié give tours of the property and tastings. The proximity to the historic center of St. Emilion doesn’t hurt either. The two suits on the property can be booked here.

Château du Palanquey & Spa

If you’re going on a romantic weekend in the Saint Emilion region, this is the place for you! Château du Palanquey & Spa is a luxury B&B, overlooking the vineyards of Saint Emilion and Castillion.  The property has a large spa that you can freely use during your stay, featuring a heated indoor pool, sauna, and jacuzzi. It also has a nice outdoor pool for the summer months with a stunning view of the vineyards.

The Château offers a Table d’hôtes service with the chef of the hotel introducing you to the best French specialties. The property is open and receives guests all year long, an idea for a cozy winter vacation. Book your stay here.

Other great wine hotels in Saint Emilion

Saint Emilion is one of the most famous wine regions in the world so you can imagine that there are quite a lot of options of vineyards accommodations in this part of Gironde. Including them all would make this list too long but I still wanted to add a few wine hotels/ B&Bs that really love in Saint Emilion. The very romantic rooms of Chateau de Ferrand, the cute Relais de Franc Mayne with a pool and a tree house, and the very elegant Aux Ducs de Sienne.

A romantic winery accomofdation - Chateau de Ferrand in Saint Emilion
Chateau de Ferrand in Saint Emilion – Lost in Bordeaux

Best wine hotels in Pessac Leognan

Château Pape Clément

Château Pape Clément, one of the oldest Grands Crus in Bordeaux, offers a truly exceptional stay amidst the lush vineyards of the Pessac-Léognan region. Established in 1252, the château’s rich history and exquisite charm create an unforgettable experience. The château features five luxurious suites, each exuding French elegance and historic charm, ensuring guests feel a sense of intimacy and nobility.

Visitors can enjoy tea time in the classical Salon des Boiseries, adorned with wood and magnificent chandeliers. The magnificent winery offers tours where guests can discover the secrets of the vineyard and taste the Grand Cru Classé wine. The enchanting gardens provide a magical setting, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and art. Book your stay here.

Château Le Pape B&B

The B&B of Château Le Pape is in the heart of Bordeaux. The château hails from the 18th century and was carefully renovated with the preservation of its heritage in mind. The château includes a pool, a living room, and a terrace where you can enjoy your coffee or a glass of wine. Consider visiting Haut-Bailly, the wine property that hosts the château. They offer tours in both French and English. You can book a tour hereRooms can be booked here.

Château Le Pape B&B - one of the best wine hotels in Bordeaux
Château Le Pape B&B – credit Booking

Best wine hotels in the Medoc

Château Chasse Spleen

Château Chasse-Spleen is a high-class winery that feels like you’ve stepped into the Alice in Wonderland books. The centerpiece of their gardens is a giant pair of galoshes and is surrounded by other surreal sculptures and water pieces. There are guesthouses on the property, and each opens to its library and its exhibition spaces. To add to the ethereal feeling of your stay, the minimalist decor and bright colors of each bedroom serve to relax.

The chateau is also home to a cute wine bar that operates during the summer season from April to November. During your stay there, you can visit the magnificent winery and enjoy one of their toursBook rooms here.

Château Chasse-Spleen - one of the best wine hotels in Medoc
Château Chasse-Spleen – Lost in Bordeaux

Château du Tertre

This is a beautiful guesthouse, located in a 19th-century mansion. The rooms are elegantly decorated and have a view of the vineyards of the estate. You also get a free tour of the château and the cellars, which are quite remarkable. Château du Tertre is one of the closest hotels to Bordeaux (in Arsac), so if you want to visit Bordeaux and the Medoc area without changing your accommodation, this is a great option. 
Book your room here.

Château Pierre de Montignac 

This is a simple and more affordable place if you want to stay in a wine château. The rooms are comfortable and clean and you get a nice breakfast in the morning. And you even get a wine bottle as a gift 🙂. Book it here

Vineyard accommodation in other parts of the Bordeaux wine region

Coup 2 Foudres – Château de Bonhoste

The Château de Bonhoste keeps their accommodations under a separate name – the “Coup 2 Foudres”. “Coup de foudre” in French translates to “love at first sight”, and the word “foudre” by itself means vat. Why did they name it like that you ask? Well because the owners converted the traditional wine vats into the most romantic guest houses. The accommodations are in the middle of the vineyards, giving you an absolutely unique experience. Each vat is made completely of wood and is modernly decorated. Book your stay here.

Coup 2 Foudres - Château de Bonhoste - a unique stay in the vineyards of Bordeuax
Coup 2 Foudres – Lost in Bordeaux

Hôtel du Château d’Arche in Sauternes

Sauternes fans are die hard. And if you’re a sauternes fan, the Château d’Arche is a grand cru classé, meaning that it has received the highest quality classification in France for wine. Guests stay in tastefully decorated rooms overlooking the vineyard.

There are 8 bedrooms available, ranging from simple double rooms to a suite. Guests note the friendliness of the staff and their willingness to help, the peacefulness of the stay, and the fact that the property is dog-friendly. Book your stay at the chateau here.

Château d'Arche in Sauternes - wineries in Bordeaux

Château de Claribès

Château de Claribès is owned by Helen and Nick, two British wine enthusiasts who have been making wine at the chateau for almost 20 years. Their property is located in the lovely village of Gensac and the winery is labeled under the Sainte-Foy-Côtes de Bordeaux appellation. The holiday house has been redone with sustainability in mind. While tastefully decorated, every piece has been recycled, made locally, and is designed to use as little energy as possible, while still giving you a cozy stay. 

Helen is an incredibly welcoming host who can regale you with stories about the woodland part of their property that they re-wooded, the transformation of the vineyard into organic wine-making, and the hidden Roman-era caves on the property where they’ve discovered ancient artifacts. You can contact Helen to book the place.

Château de Claribès - lovely house with amazing guests
Château de Claribès – by Lost in Bordeaux

Is it your first time visiting Bordeaux?

I have a few articles that will help you to get the best out of your first stay. Start with my 50 favorite things to do in Bordeaux followed by my ultimate guide to Bordeaux, which will get you familiar with all the “must” places to visit in Bordeaux. To help you to choose a hotel in Bordeaux I’ve gathered a list of the best hotels in the center of Bordeaux as well as a guide to the districts of Bordeaux to help you choose your preferred location.

Here’s a partial selection of my articles about the Bordeaux wine region:
Best wineries to visit in Saint Emilion
Where to stay in Saint Emilion
The Medoc wine route
Best wine tours in Bordeaux
Best wineries to visit in Medoc
Best family-friendly wineries in Bordeaux
Bordeaux wine region – the full guide
All the Open door events in the wineries of Bordeaux

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

Facebook |Instagram |Email | Facebook group

Liked the article? Want to read it again when you’re planning your trip to Bordeaux? Save it on your Pinterest board.

*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂 

Exploring Bordeaux’s extensive wine region is a dream for many, but without access to a car, navigating the countless châteaux can seem daunting. Having spent years visiting Bordeaux’s wineries, I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the region’s top destinations that are easily accessible by public transport. This guide starts with wineries in Bordeaux Métropole itself, then moves to some of the most famous wine regions nearby, like Saint-Émilion and Médoc. All of them are accessible by tram, bus, or train.

If you don’t want to go through a long list and just need one great winery option, go for Château Pape Clément in Pessac. It’s a beautiful estate, the wine is excellent, and they offer several visits in English. It’s also very easy to reach from the city center.

If you’re looking for more organized options, such as private or semi-private tours to the vineyards, check out my articles about wine tours from Bordeaux and visiting the Bordeaux wine region without a car.

Visit wineries in Bordeaux by bus or tram 

You’d be surprised to learn that some of Bordeaux’s wineries lie within the city limits and are accessible by tram or bus.

Château Pape Clément in Pessac

Chateau Pape Clement - one of the most beautiful wineries to visit in Bordeaux
Chateau Pape Clement – by Lost in Bordeaux

Château Pape Clément is a Grand Cru Classé estate in the Pessac-Léognan appellation and one of the most beautiful châteaux you can visit near Bordeaux. Its vineyards were planted at the request of the Archbishop of Bordeaux, who later became Pope Clement V, while the château itself was built later with elegant Neo-Gothic details.

The estate offers daily visits in French and English, as well as winemaking workshops where you can create your own blend. You can book the tour online – just click here.

Where: 216 Av. Dr. Nancel Penard, 33600 Pessac
When: Open Mon – Sun

How to get there from the center of Bordeaux:
Line 24
from Musée d’Aquitaine to Pont de l’Orient or Line 4 from the Meriadeck to Le Monteil station in Pessac.
– You can also take Tram B to the Pessac Centre station and then continue by foot for about 20 minutes.
See more info here.

Château du Taillan in Le Taillan-Médoc

Château du Taillan is a beautiful Bordeaux wine estate dating back to the 19th century. Today it’s owned by five sisters who all contribute in some form to their wine-making business. The winery produces red, white, and rosé wines and is labeled as “Médoc Cru bourgeois”.  Château du Taillan is labeled under the Medoc wine appellation, but I’ve put it in this segment just because it’s located in the Bordeaux metropole region.

Château du Taillan in Le Taillan-Médoc - one of the best wineries to visit by bus
Château du Taillan – by Lost in Bordeax

The château offers several types of visits, but the classic and gourmand options are the most popular. The classic tour takes you through the beautiful 16th-century vaulted cellars and the winemaking facilities, ending with a tasting of two wines. The gourmand visit follows a similar route but adds a more indulgent touch, with a tasting of three wines paired with a selection of local cheeses and charcuterie. You can book your visit online – just click here.

Where: 56 Av. de la Croix, 33320 Le Taillan-Médoc
When: Mon to Sun

How to get there from Bordeaux:
Line 2 from Place Gambetta to La Pargaud station (le Taillan la Boetie) – see schedule.

Château Les Carmes Haut Brion

Château Les Carmes Haut Brion is one the most interesting visits for both wine and art lovers. Its history goes back to the 16th century when the Lord of Haut Brion, Jean de Pontac, donated a windmill surrounded by vines to the Carmelite Order. In the 17th century, the Carmelite order purchased more land with vines and continued to develop the estate for more than two centuries.

Today the château is owned by Patrice Pichet, who turned it into a modern winery. The 35 hectares château produces red wines under the appellation of Pessac Leognan. It’s actually the only winery to be located in the limits of Bordeaux city. What makes the tour more exceptional is the stunning modern reception area designed by Philip Starck in 2016.

This is a prestigious château and the prices of the tours are higher than most wineries on this list (ranging from 65€ to 85€ per person). See all the details of the tours they offer here.

Where: 20 Rue des Carmes, 33000 Bordeaux
When: Mon-Sat (private visits only). 

How to get there:
Line A or F – from Hôtel de Ville (direction of Lw Haillan Rostandor / airport) to Saint Augustin, and walk about 10 minutes until you get to the château. 
Line 24 from Musée d’Aquitaine to Campus Carreire.

Château Saint Ahon – the kids’ friendly one

Château Saint Ahon, right at the beginning of the Médoc wine route is the one I recommend to families. My kids particularly enjoyed the gardens, called Les Jardins de Mirabel. They offer a fun discovery trail that teaches kids about winemaking and nature in the region in a playful way.  Here’s a link to book a visit to the chateau and the gardens.

Château Saint Ahon  in Medoc is easy to reach by bus
Château Saint Ahon – by lost in Bordeaux

Where: 57 Rue de St Ahon, 33290 Blanquefort
When: Mon- Fri

How to get there from Bordeaux:
line E (tram) from Quinconces to Gare de Blanquefort train station and then continue 20 minutes by foot (or take bus 38 from the Blanquefort train station to the Caychac station).

Visiting wineries in Saint Emilion by public transport

I have a detailed guide on how to get to Saint-Émilion from Bordeaux, so check it out if you’re planning to visit without a car. The train station is about a 20-minute walk from the village center, while most wineries are located outside the village itself. That means only a few châteaux are easily accessible by public transport, and you’ll find the best ones below.

*During the summer, there’s a direct bus from Bordeaux to the center of Saint Emilion, see all the details in my article

Château Villemaurine – the underground

Château Villemaurine is one of the most popular wineries for tourists visiting Saint-Émilion. The Château combines tradition, modernity, centuries of history, and the refined production of great wines.

The Château offers two group guided tours. A discovery tour where you get to visit the vineyards and the monolithic cellars, which are located underneath the vines of the estate. A Heritage tour where you will discover the stunning network of quarries owned by the Château.  Click here to book their visits online.

Where: 23 Villemaurine-Sud, Saint-Émilion
When: Mon – Sun

How to get there from Bordeaux:
Take the train from Gare Saint Jean to the Saint Emilion train station and walk for about 20 minutes in the direction of the center of Saint Emilion. 

Château Soutard

Château Soutard is an impressive 18th-century winery, located a few minutes’ walk from the center of Saint Emilion. It’s about 30 minutes walk from the train station, but it’s worth a visit if you’re going to spend time in the village anyway.  The Château offers plenty of fun activities such as a wine blending workshop, biking in the vineyards, a gourmet picnic, and of course, wine tours.
To book any of their activities, click here.

Chateau Soutard in saint emilion
Chateau Soutard by lost in Bordeaux

Where: Soutard, 33330 Saint-Émilion
When: The schedule is changing during the less touristy season.

How to get there from Bordeaux:
Take the train from Gare Saint Jean to the Saint Emilion train station and walk for about 30 minutes in the direction of the center of Saint Emilion. 

Château La Gaffelière

Closer to the train station, you can find Château La Gaffelièr. The winery is classified as Premier Grand Cru Classé under the Saint Emilion wine classification, making it one of the more prestigious estates on this list. 

The château belongs to the Malet-Roquefort family, who are very passionate about sharing their wine-making craft. Their group tours, lasting for about an hour, take you through their colorful vats and the underground barrel cellar. The visit includes a tasting of three of their wines. Book your tour here

Where: Château La Gaffelière, BP 65 33330 Saint-Émilion
When: Daily during the tourist season

How to get there from Bordeaux:
Take the train from Gare Saint Jean to the Saint Emilion train station and walk a few minutes to get to the chateau. 

Visiting Medoc without a car

One of the easiest parts of Medoc to reach by public transport is the town of Margaux. A direct train from Gare Saint Jean (train 42) will take you to the famous wine town with several options for chateaux to visit. Check out the schedule here. See more details about how to visit the Medoc wine region in my article.

Château Ferrière in Margaux

If you choose Medoc for your wine trip, I highly recommend visiting Château Ferrière, founded in the 18th century by a shipbroker named Gabriel Ferriere. In 1988 the château was sold to Jacques Merlaut, the owner of Château Chasse-Spleen, La Gurgue, and Haut-Bages Liberal. The Merlaut family revived the winery and produced its first vintage in 1992. Today, the château is run by the granddaughter, Claire Villars, who took over the family business after the tragic death of her parents in a car accident. 

A variety of tours are available to you at Château Ferrière, all of which include wine tasting, of course. One of their popular tours takes you through the history of the chateau, while another is more focused on the agricultural aspect of wine production. Book your tour at the Château here

Where: 33 bis Rue de la Tremoille, 33460 Margaux-Cantenac
When: Mon – Sat During the tourist season and Mon to Fri the rest of the year. 

How to get there from Bordeaux:
Take a train from Gare Saint Jean to Margaux (in the direction of le Verdon) and walk a few minutes to the winery. If you’re staying closer to the city center, take tram C, to get to the Blanquefort station instead of Gare Saint-Jean. The winery is located about 1km from the train station. 

Château Marquis de Terme in Margaux

Another great winery to visit in Margaux is Château Marquis de Terme. The chateau offers wine tasting without a tour in case you’re not interested in yet another explanation about how wine is made. The visit is particularly fun over the summer, as sometimes they open a wine bar in their garden. Château Marquis de Terme also has a great restaurant, which is yet another reason to go there. You can book your visit here

Château Marquis de Terme - medoc - one of the only wineries in Bordeaux you can visit by public transpot
Château Marquis de Terme – by Lost in Bordeaux

Where: 3 Rte de Rauzan, 33460 Margaux
When: Daily during the summer season and weekdays during the winter season. 

How to get there from Bordeaux:
How to get there from Bordeaux: take a train from Gare Saint Jean to Margaux (in the direction of le Verdon) and walk a few minutes to the winery. If you’re staying closer to the city center, take tram C, to get to the Blanquefort station instead of Gare Saint-Jean.

Visiting Graves by train 

Château de Cerons – off the beaten track

Château de Cerons is one of the most impressive properties in the Graves wine region. It’s also one of the only wineries in the Graves region you can reach by public transport. A few other wineries in Graves are reachable by bike, but that’s for another article 🙂 

The château is a historical Chartreuse (little house) dating back to the 17th century. The winery produces both red and white dry wines and offers a range of different visits that include wine tasting, picnic baskets with regional products, and more. You can book their tours here.

Château de Cerons - one of the best wineries to visit by public transport
Château de Cerons – photo by Lost in Bordeaux

Where: 1 Latour, 33720 Cérons
When: Mon to Sat from May to October and Mon to Fri from November to April – by appointment only.

How to get there from Bordeaux
Take the TER train from Gare Saint Jean in Bordeaux to the Cerons station.  Château de Cerons is located within a 15-minute walk from the station. 

Wine tours from Bordeaux city

If you’re too nervous to use public transport in Bordeaux, you can always take one of the many guided wine tours from Bordeaux. For that be sure to read my article about the best wine tours in Bordeaux.

Just to conclude, visiting wineries in the Bordeaux region is a marvelous experience that you should not miss even if you don’t have a car. In this list, you have so many amazing options for chateaux reachable by public transport! Now it’s time to choose the one you like most! Enjoy!

See other wine-related articles here:
Best wineries to visit in Saint Emilion
The Medoc wine route
Best wineries to visit in Medoc
Best family-friendly wineries in Bordeaux
Bordeaux wine region – the full guide
All the Open door events in the wineries of Bordeaux

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

Facebook |Instagram |Email | Facebook group

*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂 

I really love the summer in Bordeaux! And although I have a full guide to the best things to do in Bordeaux as well as a guide for a weekend in Bordeaux, I decided that I must dedicate an article to all the best things to do in Bordeaux in the summer. This list mostly includes my favorite summer places as well as activities that you can do all summer long in Bordeaux and more generally in Gironde. If you want to discover all the best events taking place in the region, you must read my monthly lists and subscribe to my newsletter where I update you about all the best things happening in the city every weekend. 

If it’s your first time on Lost in Bordeaux and you want to get more tips about traveling in Bordeaux and the Southwest of France feel free to join my Travel in the southwest of France group on Facebook or follow me on my Facebook/ Instagram accounts.

So now let’s dive into all the best things to do in Bordeaux in the summer!

Things to do this summer in Bordeaux Metropole

Dance at La Guinguette chez Alriq

The Guinguette is a tavern on the right banks of the Garonne hosting plenty of open-air concerts every summer. The performing bands and artists are coming from all over the world and create a laid-back party atmosphere. The place is open from Wednesday to Sunday with concerts taking place daily. You can see their program here

Dance on the Quai – learn to dance

Dansons sur les Quais is a series of dancing classes and events where people gather to dance together and learn a variety of dance genres like Tango, Salsa, Bollywood, Forro, Hip Hop, Street Jazz, Zumba, Country, and more. These activities will be guided by professional dancers from different dance schools in Bordeaux and they are completely free, so this is a great opportunity you don’t want to miss. The dancing events are taking place for several weeks every summer at Placette de Munich.  For more details and the full program check out the website of Dansons sur les Quai.

Enjoy a fun day in Darwin 

For those new to Bordeaux, Darwin is an old military base turned into an urban space with a huge chic restaurant and a cafe/organic food shop, a skate park for all ages, a second-hand shop, and many other surprises, all with an agenda of ecological awareness. It’s also one of the most extraordinary places for street art and includes some amazing works by a lot of talented artists on each one of its buildings. 

It’s also one of the places I like to go to on rainy weekends and it’s on my list of the things to do when it’s raining in Bordeaux, so take a look. 

Fun beach activities in Bordeaux

You will be surprised to discover that you don’t need to leave the city to go to the beach in Bordeaux, instead just catch a tram to Bordeaux Lac! Plage du Lac is open from June to August and during the summer offers plenty of activities such as kayaking, SUP, and more! The activities are taking place daily from 14:00 to 18:00, see the schedule here

Bordeaux lac
Bordeaux lac by Lost in Bordeaux

Puppet Theater for Kids

Le Guignol Guérin, founded in 1853, is the oldest puppetry show in France with daily spectacles for kids in Parc Bordelais during the summer (July and August). The show usually starts at 16:00 but can be canceled or postponed when it’s raining or getting too hot. Read more about the theater here.

Go to the IBOAT beach 

Well, it’s not really a proper beach where you can swim but it’s definitely one of the coolest places in town. La Plage de L’IBOAT is a fun outdoor space with a bar, comfy sofas, and different outdoor events. The Iboat, mostly known as a concert venue, is a three-level ferry spanning 687m2, anchored to one of the docks of Bassins a flot.

Iboat Bassin a Flot Bordeaux

For more cool places to visit in the Bassin a flot area check out my article about the Bacalan district

Have a drink at Mama Shelter

This is one of the best places for drinks in Bordeaux, a rooftop bar on top of the Mama Shelter Hotel in Bordeaux center. In the summer, the rooftop is open daily from 12:00 to midnight, however, hours may change so check out their website before going. This place is very popular and tends to get busy in the late evening, so booking a table is recommended. 

Mama Shelter is only one of the cool rooftops in Bordeaux Metropole, if you want to discover more hip rooftops and fun terrace cafes check out my article about the best summer bars in Bordeaux.

Enjoy the best markets in Bordeaux

Little red strawberries, mouth-watering cheese, and crispy baguettes, you saw them all in market photos uploaded to social media by people visiting France 🙂 Now go have the same fun touristic experience here, in one of Bordeaux’s numerous markets. The most popular market in Bordeaux is of course Marché des Capucins but there are plenty of amazing open-air markets in different neighborhoods in the city. Even if you live here you’ll probably discover a few new markets in my article about the best markets in Bordeaux

Summer sales

Summer sales are a great opportunity to enjoy good deals on clothes, shoes, electronics, toys, and more. This summer the soldes d’été will take place from June 22 to July 19.

Go to the pool

There are several great pools in Bordeaux, two of which are located not very far from the city center. Next to the Meriadeck shopping center, you’ll find the piscine Judaique which is located in a beautiful art deco building. A bit farther from the center is Piscine du Grand Parc. Both are very kid-friendly with facilities like a kids pool, water slides, floats, and more. If you have a car you can enjoy other outdoor pools in the region, like the Stade Nautique in Pessac or the new Centre Aquatique “La Calinésie” in Libourne. 

Things to do around Bordeaux – Gironde and Dordogne 

Taste the good life of Arcachon

Bassin d’Arcachon (the Arcachon Bay), located about 50 km from Bordeaux is one of the most popular summer destinations in France, and rightfully so. Tens of amazing beaches, oyster farmers’ villages, natural reserves, beautiful 19th-century architecture, and plenty of attractions for kids are part of what you can enjoy at this destination on the Atlantic ocean. A day trip (or a weekend) to the Bassin d’Arcachon is an absolute must when visiting Bordeaux. To help you decide where to go I wrote an article about the best places to visit on Arcachon Bay.

Arcachon bay - a day trip from Bordeaux

For a perfect summer afternoon gateway, head to Dune du Pilat and finish with a drink in La Corniche. Sounds splendid, isn’t it? Read more about these places in my article about the southern part of Arcachon

Do a weekend in Medoc

Medoc is one of the most interesting and beautiful regions in Southwest France, and luckily it’s located an hour’s drive from the center of Bordeaux. It is, of course, known for its wine, and the Medoc wine route is indeed one of the best ways to discover the Bordeaux wine world. However, the Medoc peninsula is much more than just winery visits! You have amazing beaches on the Atlantic ocean, plenty of markets with fresh local food, little ports on the Gironde estuary where you can go for a drink, and amazing lakes with beaches and water activities. So even a weekend is not enough to enjoy this amazing region. See all the things you can do there in my article about the Medoc region.
If you have time, don’t miss the Saint Emilion wine region as well, here are a few chateaux I recommend visiting in Saint Emilion

Kayaking or Canoeing in the Dordogne river

Bordeaux is surrounded by many big and small rivers, it’s not a surprise then that there are quite a few places for Kayaking and Canoeing in the Bordeaux region. One of the biggest rivers near Bordeaux is the Dordogne, which splits from the Estuary of Gironde some 30 km north of Bordeaux. The low flow in most parts of the river makes it ideal for a kayak or canoe trip as you can easily descend and visit many beautiful villages and impressive chateaux on the way. I wrote an article about some of the best Kayaking clubs on the Dordogne river, some of which are located close to Bordeaux. 

Canoe and kayak on the Dordogne river

Kayak and Canoe on the Dordogne by Lost in Bordeaux

You can also enjoy kayaking on the Leyre river on Arcachon Bay. See more details about that in my guide to what to do with kids in Arcachon

Enjoy the beautiful beaches in Gironde 

Being close to the Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by lakes are some of the best things about being in Bordeaux in the summer. We have an incredible amount of beautiful beaches with white fine sand, amazing views, and nice beach facilities. You can surf in the Atlantic ocean, enjoy the kids’ friendly beaches of Arcachon Bay or go to one of the beautiful lakes (and even hike around them!). If you’re here for a short period of time, it’s hard to choose where to go. To help you out I wrote an article about the best beaches around Bordeaux. 

Discover the most charming villages in Gironde

Bordeaux itself is a beautiful and lively city but some of the best architectural treasures are spread around Gironde. The biggest department in France has some of the most charming villages in the Southwest of France. Bastide towns with arched squares, medieval towns with narrow streets, historic chateaux, and citadels are all part of the incredible heritage of this region. In my article about the most beautiful villages in Gironde, I listed all my favorite villages around Bordeaux.  

Castelmoron d'Albret - the smallest village in France

Go hiking and discover Gironde’s nature

Besides impressive heritage and beautiful beaches, the Bordeaux region is also rich with nature reserves, forests, and parks. If hiking is your thing, the options are endless. If you need some ideas for fun and interesting hiking trails, check out my article about hiking in Bordeaux.  

Visit the most beautiful chateaux in Gironde 

Did you know that some of the most beautiful chateaux (castles) in this region are actually located in Gironde? Château Royal de Cazeneuve, Château de Roquetaillade and Chateau Villandraut are all located in the south of Gironde. These three are rich in history and beautiful architecture and are some of the most interesting heritage sites in our region. 

Château de Roquetaillade - chateaux in Gironde
Château de Roquetaillade by lost in Bordeaux

Discover the Labyrinth of the region

Labyrinth is a really fun summer activity for a group of friends with or without kids and there are two cool places to do it close to Bordeaux. The first is Popcorn Labyrinth, a huge Labyrinth in Cestas that is open in July and August and usually also offers night sessions. You can see the hours and prices in this link. 

The other one is Parc Mysterra in Montendre, which is set in a beautiful location but is recommended for slightly older kids (more than 8 yo). See more details here

Taste white wine in Entre deux mers

Bordeaux is the capital of wine and is mostly associated with red wine. The hot summer in Bordeaux, however, is a great opportunity to discover the white wines of Bordeaux. The largest sub-region in Bordeaux is Entre Deux Mers, the area located between the Dordogne and the Garonne river. While both red and white wines are produced in this region, only the white ones can get the AOC label of the Entre Deux Mers appellation. The wine is usually drunk young and is absolutely perfect for the Bordelais summer and a plate of oysters. In this link, you’ll find many of the wineries you can visit in the Entre Deux Mers region. 

If you need more advice about the wines of the region and about the best wineries to visit, you can visit the Maison des Vins which is located at the La Sauve Majeure Abbey, about 30 minutes drive from Bordeaux.

If it’s your first time in Bordeaux you may also like to read some of the following “intro to Bordeaux” articles I wrote:

The best districts in Bordeaux 
Where to stay in Bordeaux
What to do in one day in Bordeaux
Things to do with kids in Bordeaux

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

Facebook |Instagram |Email | Facebook group

Choosing the best wineries to visit in Bordeaux is no small task—this region is home to an incredible 6,000 wineries, many of which welcome visitors. In this guide, I’ve handpicked some of my favorite wineries across the region, ensuring that each appellation has its moment to shine. From the prestigious châteaux of Médoc to the charming estates of Saint-Émilion, there’s something for everyone. Plus, every winery listed here offers English-speaking tours, making it easy to plan your visit.

If you’re new to Bordeaux wine, I highly recommend starting with my Guide to the Bordeaux Wine Region for an overview. But here’s the key: Bordeaux is divided into three main areas—the Right Bank, the Left Bank, and Entre-Deux-Mers. Each produces unique wines and offers its own unforgettable experiences. By the end of this article, you’ll not only understand these regions but also be ready to choose the perfect winery to visit during your Bordeaux adventure in 2025.

Visiting wineries in the Bordeaux wine region
Bordeaux vineyards

How to visit vineyards in Bordeaux?

For a hassle-free experience, join a guided tour. Check out my Best Wine Tours in Bordeaux article for great options. If you’re planning your own tour, renting a car is the easiest way to reach most wineries. Alternatively, explore my guide to wineries accessible by public transport, like Château Pape Clément, which is included in this list.

Bordeaux wineries to visit on the right bank – Saint Emilion, Pomerol, and Fronsac

Château de la Rivière, Fronsac appellation

Château de la Rivière - a kid friendly winery in Fronsac Bordeaux
Château de la Rivière – by Lost in Bordeaux

Perched above the Dordogne valley, the stunning Château de la Rivière is an award-winning winery in the Fronsac appellation. Spanning 100 hectares, it’s one of the largest vineyards in the region, producing both red and white wines.

The visit here is truly unique—you’ll explore their 16th-century defensive fortress and underground caves, dug in the 19th century, where the wine is stored. Bring a flashlight; it’s an experience to remember!

Château de la Rivière is also a fantastic choice for families, making it one of the best wineries to visit with kids in Bordeaux. You can even extend your stay at their beautiful B&B, complete with a pool overlooking the vineyards—perfect for a weekend escape. Visits are available year-round from Monday to Saturday, by appointment only. Book your visit here.

Château Montlabert, Saint-Émilion Grands Crus Classé

Château Montlabert - one of the best wineries to visit in Saint Emilion
Château Montlabert by Lost in Bordeaux

Located just five minutes from Saint-Émilion, Château Montlabert has a rich history dating back to the 18th century when it was known as the “Maison Noble de Montlabert.” Renamed in 1750, the estate has recently risen to Grand Cru Classé status thanks to innovative winemaking techniques.

A major renovation in 2018 transformed the property into an architectural marvel, featuring a stunning wine cellar. Visitors can enjoy daily tours in English or French, often paired with a picnic in their picturesque rose garden.
Book your visit online here.

Château de Sales, Pomerol appellation 

Chateau de Sales - one of the most elegant chateaux in the Bordeaux area
Chateau de Sales – by Lost in Bordeaux

Pomerol is a boutique appellation, spanning just 800 hectares and home to some of the world’s most prestigious red wines, like Pétrus.

Château de Sales stands out as the largest vineyard in Pomerol, with 90 hectares of Merlot-dominated vines blended with Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon for a refined, elegant texture. This family-owned estate has been passed down for nearly five centuries, and its 17th-century manor, listed as a Historic Monument since 1996, is complemented by a sleek, modern tasting room.

The chateau offers a variety of experiences, from classic tours to wine and chocolate or cheese pairing workshops, and even cycling tours through the vineyards—all including wine tastings. Château de Sales is open Tuesday to Saturday (closed on bank holidays) and requires booking for visits.

Chateau de Bernateau, Saint-Émilion Grands Crus

Chateau bernateau - a family winery in Saint Emilion
Château Bernateau – Lost in Bordeaux

Château Bernateau is a family-run winery managed by the 11th generation of the Lavau family. Tours are led by the delightful Karine, who brings a warm, personal touch to the experience. Their signature tour, From the Vine to the Cellar, takes you through vineyards, including old and young vines, and into their elegant vat room. It concludes with a tasting of three Saint-Émilion Grands Crus, showcasing the terroir’s influence and the wine’s evolution.

This isn’t one of the grand, opulent chateaux, but it’s perfect for those seeking a family-owned gem. The property features a charming stone house, a garden, and even a small playhouse for kids, making it a relaxing spot to enjoy a tour or a garden picnic. Book your visit here.

Château de Ferrand, Grand Cru Classé

Chateau de Ferrand - a winery to visit in Saint Emilion
Chateau de Ferrand – By Lost in Bordeaux

Located just 6 km from Saint-Émilion, Château de Ferrand spans 32 hectares, making it one of the larger wineries in the area. The tour covers the vineyards, impressive wine cellars, and the estate’s history, which dates back to the 17th century. Recently renovated, their two stylish tasting rooms add a modern touch to the experience.

Unlike the smaller, family-run wineries I often recommend, Château de Ferrand has a more professional vibe. Wine tastings are led by a skilled sommelier, who provides valuable insights into the art of wine tasting. The chateau offers a variety of tours, masterclasses, and events throughout the year. Check out their options here.

Bordeaux wineries to visit on the left bank – Medoc

Château Lamothe Bergeron in Medoc 

Château Lamothe Bergeron  offers some of the most interesting visits in Medoc
Château Lamothe Bergeron – Lost in Bordeaux

Médoc is filled with exceptional wineries, making it tough to choose just one. While I have a dedicated list of Médoc châteaux, Château Lamothe Bergeron stands out for its diverse visiting options and year-round availability. Located in Cussac-Fort-Médoc, between Margaux and Saint-Julien, this Cru Bourgeois estate produces Haut-Médoc wines, focusing solely on Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

The Château offers experiences for all levels, from wine-tasting workshops to cellar tours and gourmet visits. Château Lamothe Bergeron is open daily from April to October and Monday to Friday from November to March. Explore their tours here.

Château du Taillan, Le Taillan-Médoc

Château du Taillan in Le Taillan-Médoc - one of the best wineries to visit by bus
Château du Taillan – by Lost in Bordeax

Château du Taillan is a charming 19th-century estate, owned and operated by five sisters who each contribute to its success. The winery produces red, white, and rosé wines and holds the “Médoc Cru Bourgeois” label.

Although part of the Médoc appellation, its proximity to Bordeaux makes it a great option for a quick wine getaway—you can even reach it by bus from the city center. 

The château offers various tours, from a classic visit with a tasting of two wines to an intimate experience featuring their family home, complete with cheese, chocolate, and four wines. In high season, you can also enjoy a picnic in their garden with a basket provided by the château. Learn more about their experiences here.

Château Pape Clément, Pessac-Leognan

Chateau Pape Clement  - one of the best chateaux to visit in Bordeaux
Chateau Pape Clement – by Lost in Bordeaux

Château Pape Clément, a Grand Cru Classé estate in the Pessac-Léognan appellation, is one of Bordeaux’s most stunning châteaux. Like Chateau de Taillian, it’s also accessible by tram or bus from the city center.

Founded by the Archbishop of Bordeaux, the future Pope Clement V, the château features beautiful Neo-Gothic architecture. Besides wine production, it also functions as a luxury hotel. Château Pape Clément offers daily tours in French and English, along with winemaking workshops where you can create your own wine. The winery is open most days of the year. Explore available tours here.

Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey in the Sauternes appellation 

Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, one of the oldest estates in the Sauternes appellation, dates back to the 13th century. Located in the charming village of Bommes, this 18.5-hectare vineyard offers an exceptional wine experience, along with a Michelin-star restaurant and one of the finest wine hotels in the region.

The château is perched 70 meters above sea level, offering stunning views of the surrounding vineyards, including the prestigious Château d’Yquem.

Apart from their discovery tour, you can enjoy a wine pairing experience guided by the chef at their Michelin restaurant. Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey is open daily during the high season and from Thursday to Monday during the low season. Visits are by appointment only. Book your tour here.

Château de Cerons in Graves 

Château de Cerons is a historical 17th-century Chartreuse, offering one of the most unique visits in Bordeaux. This 30-hectare estate produces both red and white dry wines.

The château offers a variety of tours, including wine tastings, picnic baskets with local products, and even a “nap tour” for a relaxing experience. It’s one of the most kid-friendly wineries in the region, with bike rentals for exploring the picturesque village and the Garonne River. For more family-friendly options, check out my dedicated list.

Château de Cerons is open Monday to Saturday from May to October and Monday to Friday from November to April. Book your tour here.

Best wineries to visit in the Entre deux Mers wine region – Bordeaux’s white wines

Château de Camarsac

The imposing Château de Camarsac is nicknamed Château du Prince Noir  (Castle of the Black Prince). Construction of the castle started in 1312, and the structure underwent significant alterations and modernizations from the 16th to the 19th centuries. 

Château de Camarsac - a winery to visit in Bordeaux
Château de Camarsac – by Lost in Bordeaux

The domain produces everything from whites, roses, three types of reds, and even their own beer. The winery offers three tours: A guided tour with wine tasting, a Panoramic tour with a visit to the 14th-century restored dungeon as well a blending workshop

The castle is located in the little village of Camarsac located about 15 km from Bordeaux, which makes it an easy gateway from the city. From time to time they also organize fun events for both adults and kids. Château de Camarsac is open for visits all year long, by appointment only.
You can see and book all their tours here

Château le Grand Verdus, Sadirac

Located just 20 km from Bordeaux, Château le Grand Verdus is a historic estate dating back to the 16th century. Owned by the Le Grix de la Salle family since 1820, it is now managed by Antoine and Thomas Le Grix de la Salle, who carry on their family’s winemaking legacy.

This 114-hectare vineyard produces organic wines, including reds, whites, and rosé from Bordeaux Supérieur, Bordeaux Blanc, and Bordeaux Rosé appellations. Their easy-drinking wines are perfect for enjoying on hot Bordeaux days.

In addition to their classic discovery tour, you can explore their white wine production (a rarity in Bordeaux) or focus on reds. Château le Grand Verdus also hosts an outdoor wine bar and live concerts twice a week during the summer.
Open Monday to Friday, you can book your tour here.

Is it your first time visiting the Bordeaux wine region? Here are a few tips

If you want to spend the night at a Bordeaux vineyard. Check out my article about the best wine hotels in Bordeaux. If you’re visiting the region with kids you can combine it with a trip to one of the family-friendly wineries in Bordeaux.

Here are more Bordeaux wine-related articles you may find useful!

A detailed guide to the Bordeaux wine region
A day trip to Saint Emilion
Wineries to visit in Saint Emilion 
Wineries to visit in the Sauternes wine region 
Wineries in Bordeaux to visit by public transport
A weekend in Medoc
Best wineries to visit in Medoc

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via Lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

Facebook |Instagram |Email | Facebook group

Do you want to read this article again when you’re in Bordeaux? Save it on your Pinterest board.

*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂 


When visiting Bordeaux, save at least a few days to explore the magical Gironde region. The wine capital is surrounded by charming villages, grand châteaux, vineyards, and sandy beaches. Here’s a list of my favorite day trips, covering everything from famous wine regions to medieval towns and beach getaways.

It’s important to note that most of these locations are not very accessible by public transport. Personally, I use DiscoverCars when I need to rent a car, so I can highly recommend it.  If want to avoid driving be sure to check out my article about the best day trips from Bordeaux by train.

A day trip to the vineyards of Bordeaux

Visiting Saint Émilion and its wineries

Saint Émilion is the quintessential Bordeaux day trip. This medieval gem is world-famous for its wineries and picturesque streets, attracting over a million visitors annually. Even non-wine lovers will appreciate its rich history, including the impressive Monolithic Church carved from limestone in the 11th century.

For wine enthusiasts, Saint Émilion is paradise. Visit one of the region’s many wineries—my article about wineries to visit in Saint Emilion lists my personal favorites based on years of visits. If you prefer a guided experience, consider a full-day tour with Ophorus, which includes stops at three wineries and a walk through the medieval center.

How to get there: The easiest way is by car, which allows you to visit vineyards beyond the town center. Alternatively, You can take a train from the Gare Saint Jean station or a bus to the center of Saint Emilion (operating only in the summer). See all the best ways to get to Saint Emilion including guided tours.

Saint Emilion - on of the best Day trips from Bordeaux
Saint Emilion – photo by Lost in Bordeaux

The Medoc Wine Route – La route des châteaux 

La route des châteaux in Medoc is the most scenic route in the Bordeaux wine region. The renowned wine route along the D2 road begins in northern Bordeaux Metropole and stretches to the northern tip of Gironde. Along this scenic journey, you’ll encounter breathtaking châteaux nestled amidst endless vineyards, creating a postcard-perfect landscape at every turn.

On the way, you’ll pass by iconic chateaux châteaux like Château Margaux and Château Mouton Rothschild. While some famous estates are open only to professionals, others like Château d’Arsac and Château Lamothe Bergeron welcome visitors. As with Saint Emilion, here too, I’ve made a list of all my favorite wineries to visit in the Medoc wine region. If time allows, I highly recommend dedicating a weekend to Médoc to fully appreciate its beauty. For a shorter trip, take a half-day guided tour that includes visits to two wineries.

How to get to the Medoc: Driving is the best way to explore Médoc, but there are a few wineries accessible by train. My guide lists them for your convenience.

Château Chasse Spleen - a winery to visit by train from Bordeaux
Château Chasse Spleen by Lost in Bordeaux

Cognac – the town and the Brandy

Cognac, about 120 km from Bordeaux, is renowned for its world-class spirit. The town’s historic center features 16th- and 17th-century streets and is home to famous Cognac houses like Hennessy, Martell, and Rémy Martin, all offering tastings and tours. For a deeper dive, join a private tour from Bordeaux that includes visits to three Cognac distilleries and the town itself.

Things to do in Cognac
Best Distilleries to visit in Cognac

Here are two of my articles you should read before going: best things to do (and eat) in Cognac and distilleries to visit in Cognac.
How to get from Bordeaux to Cognac: You can take a train (with a transfer to Saintes or Angoulême) but that is a very long journey, hence I highly recommend renting a car to visit Cognac.

Discover the best beach towns around Bordeaux

Arcachon: beautiful beaches and Dune du Pilat

A day trip to Dune du Pilat
Pune du Pilat – Lost in Bordeaux

Arcachon is one of the most popular summer destinations in the southwest of France. A seaside resort town renowned for its beautiful beaches, impressive architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. Within an hour’s drive from Bordeaux, you get to swim in the ocean, eat oysters, and see extravagant villas. 

A day to Arcachon is best to be combined with a trip to the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe. To help you organize the trip I wrote a detailed guide about how to spend a day in Arcachon.  If you don’t have the time to plan a day trip, taking this tour from Bordeaux is a great way to discover Arcachon.

How to get to Arcachon: the town of Arcachon is one of the easiest day trips by train. However, if you want to easily visit some of the other places on Arcachon Bay, renting a car is highly recommended. 

Soulac sur Mer

Soulac-sur-Mer, located 90 km north of Bordeaux, is a charming resort town often nicknamed “Little Arcachon” for its resemblance to its southern counterpart. Boasting some of the most stunning beaches on the Atlantic coast, it’s a favorite destination for French tourists. The town is dotted with delightful little restaurants, both in the center and along the promenade. One of the highlights of the Medoc region Soulac is great to combine with the La route des châteaux.

Villas in Soulac sur Mer
Villas in Soulac sur Mer

When there, take a map from the tourist office and go on a discovery tour of the most interesting villas. I highly recommend coming here at the beginning of June during the festive weekend of Soulac 1900, a really fun Jazz festival.

How to get to Soulac: If you don’t want to drive for 1.5 hours from Bordeaux, you can take a direct train from Bordeaux. You can buy tickets here.

Cap Ferret

The Cap Ferret peninsula is located in the Western part of Bassin d’Arcachon (Arcachon Bay). Shaped like a narrow tongue it runs along a string of beautiful sandy beaches on the Atlantic Ocean and small villages on the Bassin side. Despite its growing popularity among locals and tourists, Cap Ferret has yet to lose its relaxing seaside village atmosphere.

Cap Ferret - on of the best day trips from Bordeaux
The Cap Ferret peninsula – Lost in Bordeaux

The peninsula is renowned as one of France’s largest oyster-growing regions, thanks to its prime location on Arcachon Bay, which offers ideal conditions for oyster farming. Charming oyster huts dot the ports of Cap Ferret and picturesque villages like L’Herbe and Le Canon. Indulging in a plate of fresh oysters paired with a chilled glass of white wine is an experience you simply can’t miss!

How to get to Cap Ferret from Bordeaux: You can get there by bus number 601, but honestly it’s a long journey that I wouldn’t recommend. The best way is to get there by car. It’s also possible to get there by boat from Arcachon town.

The Biscarrosse lake

This one is a great option for a day in nature. If you don’t mind driving a bit longer, the beautiful Biscarrosse Lake is located about 70 km (45 miles) from Bordeaux. It is one of the biggest lakes in the area with plenty of amazing beaches and pine forest surrounding it. If you need an idea for a day out of Bordeaux with kids, a trip to Biscarrose is perfect!

Plage de Caton - Lac Cazaux, Biscarrosse
Plage de Caton – Lost in Bordeaux

There are several beaches to choose from, some of my favorites are Plage Navarrose and Plage de Caton. Aquapark, the biggest inflatable water park in France is located on Plage Maguide. If you’re into surfing, head to the beaches on the Atlantic coast. You can also start the day with a biking trail on the canal, connecting the big and little lakes.

If you prefer ocean beaches head to Biscarrosse Ocean, a seaside town with a huge beach and plenty of restaurants. You need a car to get to all these beaches from Bordeaux. 

A day trip to the beautiful villages and towns around Bordeaux

Bazas

Bazas is one of the best villages to go to as a day trip from Bordeaux
Bazas – by Lost in Bordeaux

Bazas is a beautiful little town with lovely people and a great heritage embodying the Gascony culture. It’s located at the eastern edge of the Gascon Landes forest, about 65 km (40 miles) from Bordeaux. 

Architecture is not the only attraction in Bazas, it’s actually famous for its gastronomy, especially its meat which you can taste in many of the restaurants on the main square. If you’re looking for a more special gastronomic experience book a farm-to-table tour with Anne, an American chef living in Bazas.

Blaye

Blaye is one of the most beautiful villages in the Bordeaux area, located only about 50 km (30 miles) from Bordeaux. This little town has a long military and strategic history and is mostly known for its remarkable Citadel. 

The Citadel and the city walls are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The entrance to the Citadel is free and you can explore the streets and ramparts admiring the view of the Gironde estuary which can be seen from the top. 

Blaye
Blaye – by Lost in Bordeaux

How to get to Blaye: The easiest way to get there is by car or by ferry if you’re coming from the other side of the Gironde estuary. The ferry is leaving from Lamarque, see the schedule.

Visit castles in the South of Gironde

South Gironde is a magical landscape of history and gascon tradition. It’s a rural area, abundant with beautiful medieval villages and ancient castles. One of the most impressive castles is Château de la Brede, located only 30 minutes from Bordeaux. The 14th-century castle, built in a Gothic style was the residence of Montesquieu. Today the castle is a museum dedicated to the life and work of the famous French philosopher. The château is open for visits from April to November.

Château de la Brede
Château de la Brede

Other stunning castles include Château de Cadillac, Château de Roquetaillade, Château Royal de Cazeneuve, and Château de Vayres. You need a car to be able to visit the castles of Gironde. You can easily find a car from the center of Bordeaux here.

Bergerac

The Dordogne region offers endless day trip possibilities, with its stunning castles, gardens, and some of the most beautiful French villages less than two hours away. One of the highlights of the region is Bergerac, the capital of Purple Périgord, located 115 km from Bordeaux—a 1.5-hour drive. Check out my detailed guide to Bergerac for more tips.

Bergerac labeled as Ville d'art et d'histoire
Art in Bergerac – Lost in Bordeaux

Nestled along the Dordogne River, Bergerac boasts beautiful river views and opportunities to tour traditional gabarres (wooden boats) to learn about the city’s history and surrounding nature reserve. Its city center is lively, featuring great restaurants, a bustling market, and quaint shopping streets.

Wine lovers can also visit nearby châteaux, like the iconic Château de Monbazillac, just 15 minutes away and famed for its sweet white wine. If visiting on a Saturday, don’t miss the excellent market at Sainte Foy la Grande, conveniently en route from Bordeaux.

How to get to Bergerac: There’s a direct train from Bordeaux to Bergerac, the same one that stops at Saint Emilion. You can buy your tickets online or at the train station. 

Is it your first time in Bordeaux?

If you’re visiting Bordeaux for the first time, be sure to check out my ultimate guide to Bordeaux to get familiar with all the must-see places in Bordeaux. To help you choose a hotel in Bordeaux I’ve gathered a list of the best hotels in the center of Bordeaux as well as a guide to the districts of Bordeaux to help you find your preferred location.

Before I end my article, here are a few other articles you might want to read when you’re traveling around Bordeaux:
The best beaches around Bordeaux
Best places to visit on the Arcachon Bay
A weekend in Medoc- Bordeaux wine tours
What to do and eat in Saint Emilion
A weekend in Toulouse

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

Facebook |Instagram |Email | Facebook group

*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂 

The Medoc wine region is home to some of the most prestigious wineries in France. Located in the Medoc peninsula, along the Gironde estuary, the vineyards of the Medoc AOC cover around 5500 hectares of the territory. With thousands of wine estates in the area, planning a day trip to Medoc can be a bit of a daunting task. In this article, my goal is to help you plan your trip to the Medoc wine region, whether you decide to do it by yourself or with a guide. 

The Medoc AOC consists of 8 appelations and around 6000 wineries (most of which can’t be visited). There are several ways to get to Medoc from Bordeaux and visit the wineries of the region. You can embark on an amazing road trip, join a guided tour, or take a train to one of Medoc’s famous towns. Here are the details of how to plan the best trip to Medoc.

visiting wineries in Medoc
Château Prieuré-Lichine – Lost in Bordeaux

Medoc Road trip – Route des Châteaux

The Medoc wine region is home to one of the most beautiful wine routes in France, called Route des Chateaux, the route of castles. An endless road unveiling the breathtaking landscapes of lush vineyards and enchanting castles.

If you have a car or don’t mind renting one, I highly recommend doing the Medoc Road trip. This is the ideal way to visit the wineries of your choice and also take the time to admire the beautiful castles along the way. I have a detailed guide for those wishing to discover the Medoc region with its wineries and beach towns. 

Routes des Chateaux - a road trip in the Medoc wine region
Routes des Chateaux in Medoc – Lost in Bordeaux

If you have only one day (or just a few hours), just follow the D2 road (starting in the town of Blanquefort) until you start seeing stunning chateaux on the way. Here are my recommendations for the best wineries to visit in Medoc.

A guided tour in Medoc

As much as I love self-guided activities, when it comes to wine, I usually prefer guided tours.  Medoc is a fascinating region, with a rich history, many appelations with different wine styles, and a complex classification system. A good guide can furnish you with the information required to enhance your overall experience when visiting Médoc.

A guided tour is one of the best ways to visit Medoc
Ophorus guided tour to Medoc – Lost in Bordeaux

Another benefit of guided tours is that you don’t need to coordinate anything. They choose all the wineries for you and all you are left to do is taste wine and enjoy the visit. 

Also, if you want to drink all the wine you’re going to get at the wineries, you better make sure that someone else is driving. A guided tour that takes you from and brings you back to the center of Bordeaux is an amazing solution for that. 

Semi-Private Tours to Medoc from Bordeaux 

One of the tours I highly enjoyed was the one offered by Ophorus, a reputable company in wine tourism in this region. 

The full-day wine tour to Medoc includes a visit to three different wineries, all carefully chosen by their team. The tour allows you to visit wineries from different appellations in Medoc and observe the differences between the more prestigious chateaux and smaller family-owned properties. All the chateaux on the tours are either Grand Cru classé or Cru Bourgeois, so good wine is guaranteed. 

Medoc Full Day Wine Tour, - one of the best ways to visit Medoc from Bordeaux
A wine tour I recently took with Ophorus – Lost in Bordeaux

Our guide was very knowledgeable and energetic, introducing us to the most important things we had to know about the region before starting our tastings. We arrived well-prepared and ready to try our Medoc wines! As it’s a small group (up to 8 people), it gives a very intimate atmosphere and you feel free to ask questions and share your experiences. 

There are two great options for guided tours to the Medoc – A full-day tour and a half-day tour.
I enjoyed the full day a lot, but I think that half a day is enough to get a taste of the Medoc.

A private wine tour of the Medoc wine region 

You can also treat yourself to a private tour with one of the best wine tour guides in the region, Nicolle Croft. Her tour includes a visit to three chateaux in several traditional winemaking villages of Margaux, St Julien, Pauillac, or St Estephe. 

Nicolle from SIP wine private tours in the Bordeaux wine region
Nicolle from SIP Wine Tours – by Lost in Bordeaux

Nicolle is not only an expert in the Bordeaux wine region, she’s also very pleasant and interesting to talk to. If you have any preferences in the type of wine you like, she can easily adapt the tours around that. 

You can book her Medoc tour here.

A group wine tour to Medoc

Another option is taking a group tour from the Bordeaux Tourist office that offers wine tours to Medoc every Tuesday and Saturday, 

The main advantage of taking a group tour is the price which is usually under 50 euros p/p. If you have the Bordeaux city pass, you get another discount of 15% – you can purchase the city pass here

The downside of these group tours is the number of people allowed on a tour which can easily get to around 40, making the experience less intimate.

Visiting wineries in Medoc by train

Another way to visit the Medoc wine region is by train, a great option for people who want to avoid driving but also don’t like tours. 

I have an article dedicated to wineries you can visit around Bordeaux by public transport, some of which are located in Medoc. 

One of the easiest parts of Medoc to reach by public transport is the town of Margaux. A direct train from Gare Saint Jean (train 42) will take you to the famous wine town with several options of chateaux to visit. Check out the schedule here and purchase tickets here.  

Wine tasting in Margaux - a day trip from Bordeaux
Wine tasting in Margaux – by Lost in Bordeaux

In Margaux, you can visit Château Marquis de Terme, Château Ferrière, or Chateau Dauzac (located about 25 minutes walk from the Macau train station). 

If you’re interested in other parts of the Bordeaux wine region you should check my articles about:

A detailed guide to the Bordeaux wine region
A day trip to Saint Emilion
Wineries to visit in Saint Emilion 
Wineries to visit in the Sauternes wine region 
Wineries in Bordeaux to visit by public transport
A weekend in Medoc

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via Lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

Facebook |Instagram |Email | Facebook group

*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂 

Medoc is one of the most renowned wine regions in the world with chateaux that look like they were taken from a fairy tale. 

Many visitors to the Bordeaux wine region tend to visit Saint Emilion due to its beautiful medieval village and superior wine. And while I agree that Saint Emilion is kind of a must-visit in the region, I think that the Medoc region should not be overlooked. 

If you have a few days to spend here, I have a very detailed guide about visiting the Medoc peninsula, including its wineries and beaches

However, in this article, I want to recommend specific wineries in Medoc, for people who are primarily interested in wine. If you need help with planning your trip to the Medoc, here’s my article with the best ways to get to the Medoc wine region as well as details about a great guided tour that can take you there from Bordeaux. 

The best wineries to visit in Medoc
Wineries in Medoc – Lost in Bordeaux

The best wineries to visit in the Medoc wine region 

The Medoc wine region consists of eight appellations (AOC), which include Médoc, Haut-Médoc, Margaux, Pauillac, Saint Julien, Saint-Estéphe, Moulis, and Listrac. 

The Medoc wine is classified according to the Bordeaux wine official classification of 1855 and its five levels with “Grand cru classé, Premier cru classé” being the highest of the five. 

There are 60 Grand cru classé wineries, craft and cooperative chateaux, and many other incredible wine chateaux that you can visit on the Medoc route. 

During the years I’ve been living here I had the chance to visit dozens of wineries in the region. In this article, I want to recommend the wineries that I thought offered the best visiting experience. I take into account the guides, the wine, and the estate itself and generally how enjoyable the visit was.

Château Hourtin-Ducasse 

Let’s start with the one I enjoyed the most!

This family-owned winery in the Haut-Médoc AOC is located in the small village of Saint Sauveur in the west part of the Medoc wine region. In their 18-hectare vineyard, they grow Cabernet-Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot which they later use as their grape varieties. 

The couple that runs the winery are two of the more welcoming people I’ve met in this region. On special events, you can meet their lovely 7 kids who come to visit and help at the chateaux. 

Château Hourtin-Ducasse  - one of the most fun wineries to visit in Medoc
Château Hourtin-Ducasse  – Lost in Bordeaux

The place and especially the cellar has a very personal touch to it. It feels like a brocante within a winery. Tasting tables and cozy sofas are spread over the aisles, the vineyard, and the courtyard. A perfect atmosphere for an aperitif with friends!

It’s one of the most kids-friendly wineries I have had the chance to visit in Medoc. Your little ones can find plenty of toys in the garden that will occupy them for hours while you enjoy the estate. Here are more ideas for family-friendly wineries in the Bordeaux wine region.

Château Hourtin-Ducasse is open most of the year upon appointment only.

You can book a tour here

Address: Lieu-dit Le Fournas, 3 Rte de la Chatole, 33250 Saint-Sauveur

Chateau d’Arsac 

One of the most beautiful wineries in the Margaux wine region is Chateau d’Arsac. This huge wine estate spreads over 250 hectares, including 108 hectares of vineyards. They produce wines under three different appellations: Margaux, Haut Medoc, and White Bordeaux (only red wines can be labeled as Medoc AOC)

If you’re interested in art, this is one of the best wineries for you to visit in Medoc. The château has an impressive collection of modern art sculptures spread all over the property, making visits there feel like an art tour. Every year, the owner of Chateau d’Arsac expands the collection by acquiring new artworks so it’s a spot worth coming back to.

Chateau d'arsac - one of the most beautiful wineries in Medoc
Chateau d’Arsac  – Lost in Bordeaux

The château offers a variety of tours, which include wine, art, and live music. You can book a visit or just stop by the stunning gardens which are open from Mon to Fri from 9:00 to 17:00.  

Book your visit here

Address: 1, allée du Comte Arsac-en-Médoc, 33460 MARGAUX

Château Marquis de Terme

Château Marquis de Terme, located in Margaux, has been owned by the Sénéclauze family since 1935. The fourth classified growth winery spreads over 40 hectares of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and petit verdot grapes. 

I highly recommend visiting this chateau during the summer so you can enjoy their open bar in the garden. Château Marquis de Terme also has a great restaurant which is yet another reason to go there. 

Château Marquis de Terme - medoc - one of the only wineries in Bordeaux you can visit by public transpot
Château Marquis de Terme – by Lost in Bordeaux

If you’ve already visited a few wineries in your life and don’t necessarily want to go through yet another explanation about winemaking, this place also offers wine tasting without a tour. 

You can book your visit here

The winery is located close to the center of Margaux, a few minutes walk from the train station, which makes it one of the best wineries to visit by train

Address: 3 Rte de Rauzan, 33460 Margaux

Château Ferrière

Another great winery to visit in Margaux is Château Ferrière, founded in the 18th century by a shipbroker named Gabriel Ferriere. In 1988 the château was sold to Jacques Merlaut, the owner of Château Chasse-Spleen, La Gurgue, and Haut-Bages Liberal. 

The Merlaut family revived the winery and produced its first vintage in 1992. Today, the château is run by the granddaughter, Claire Villars, who took over the family business after the tragic death of her parents in a car accident. 

Château Ferrière - one of  the best wineries to visit in Medoc
Château Ferrière – Lost in Bordeaux

A variety of tours are available to you at Château Ferrière, all of which include wine tasting, of course. One of their popular tours takes you through the history of the chateau while another is more focused on the agricultural aspect of wine production.

Book your tour at the Château here

The winery is located in the center of Margaux and is one of the best wineries to visit by train

Address: 33 bis Rue de la Tremoille, 33460 Margaux-Cantenac

Château Malescasse

Located in the village of Lamarque, Château Malescasse is known for its unique terroir and wine. The winery sits between Margaux and Saint Julian and produces Haut-Médoc wines. That’s a great appellation to try if you’re not a fan of the tannic wines produced in Paulliac and Saint Estephe. 

In recent years Château Malescasse has been renovated and is now home to one of the most beautiful tasting rooms in Medoc.

Château Malescasse in Medoc with its stunning tasting room
Château Malescasse – Lost in Bordeaux

Since 2020 the winery has been classified as Cru bourgeois exceptionnel, a classification that was created to include wineries that weren’t included in the 1855 classification. The winery offers several wine-tasting experiences, you can book them here. You can also privatize the chateau for special events

Address: 6 Chemin du Moulin Rose – 33460 Lamarque

Chateau du Taillan Medoc 

Château du Taillan is a beautiful Bordeaux wine estate dating back to the 19th century. Today it’s owned by five sisters who all contribute in some form to their wine-making business. The winery produces red, white, and rosé wines and is classified as “Médoc Cru bourgeois”. 

The winery offers several visits. The classic one allows you to taste two wines of Château du Taillan. While their most expensive tour takes you on a more intimate journey to discover the house where the sisters grew up. This one ends with tastings of four different wines accompanied by cheese and chocolate. You can read about all their tours and book your visit here.

Château du Taillan - how to visit wineries in Bordeuax without a car
Château du Taillan by Lost in Bordeaux

During the high season, you can also order a picnic basket from the château and have a fabulous lunch in their garden. You can see more info about that here

Château du Taillan is located in Le Taillan-Médoc, one of the towns of Bordeaux Metropole and you can visit it by bus

Address: 56 Av. de la Croix, 33320 Le Taillan-Médoc

Château Lamothe Bergeron 

The stunning Château Lamothe Bergeron is located in Cussac-Fort-Médoc between Margaux and Saint Julian. The Cru Bourgeois classified winery produces Haut Medoc wine, using Cabernet sauvignon and Merlot as their only grape varieties. 

Château Lamothe Bergeron  offers some of the most interesting visits in Medoc
Château Lamothe Bergeron – Lost in Bordeaux

One of the highlights of the visit is the 19th-century château that has been fully renovated in 2015. Touristic experiences are a high priority for Château Lamothe Bergeron which has recently received an award for their quality.

The winery offers a variety of tours and activities that can fit both wine amateurs and professionals. You can choose anything from wine-tasting training to a cellar visit, a wine siesta, and a gourmand visit. See all the available tours here.

Address: 49 Chem. des Graves, 33460 Cussac-Fort-Médoc

Château Cos D’estournel

You can guess from my list that I really love the Haut Medoc and Margaux appellations. But the list won’t be complete without at least one winery from the northern part of Medoc. 

So I decided to finish the list with one of of the most prestigious wineries in Medoc, Château Cos D’estournel. Located in the Saint Espehe wine appellation region, the estate was classified as Deuxièmes Crus (Second Growths) in the 1855 Bordeaux Wine Official Classification.

The vineyards cover around 91 hectares and primarily grow Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes, resulting in wines of great finesse and depth.

Château Cos D’estournel - one of the most beautiful wineries to visit in Medoc
Château Cos D’estournel – Lost in Bordeaux

While driving on the route des chateaux (the Medoc route of castles) it will be impossible to miss this unique estate. The château’s architecture is a striking fusion of Eastern and Western influences, showcasing exotic elements that make it stand out among the traditional Bordeaux châteaux. This distinctiveness has earned it the nickname “The Oriental Palace of Saint-Estèphe.” 

The winery can be visited upon appointment, you can contact them here

Address: Cos S, 33180 Saint-Estèphe

If you’re interested in other parts of the Bordeaux wine region you should also check my articles about:

A detailed guide to the Bordeaux wine region
A day trip to Saint Emilion
Wineries to visit in Saint Emilion 
Best wineries to visit in Pessac Leognan
Wineries to visit in the Sauternes wine region 
Wineries in Bordeaux to visit by public transport
A weekend in Medoc

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via Lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

Facebook |Instagram |Email | Facebook group

*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂 

Temperate weather, ocean views, a city packed with culture, and gorgeous architecture are just a few of the attractions of Bordeaux. But once you’ve really tapped into Bordeaux wineries? You might never leave. 

Chateau Pape Clement - one of the most beautiful wineries to visit in Bordeaux
Chateau Pape Clement – by Lost in Bordeaux

If you decided to stay here, I’ll warn you, there’s a lot to know, so this article is going to be a bit long 🙂 With so many delicious wines to sample in the Bordeaux wine region, how should you choose? The answer depends on the kind of wine you like, how you want to feel drinking it, and the kind of setting you’re looking for. In this article, I’m going to introduce you to all the Bordeaux wine regions, explain the main grapes used in each one and the types of wine they produce, and share practical tips on how to visit wineries in the region.

For every region, I also added a few recommendations of wineries to visit.  So by the end of this article, you should have a rough idea of where to go while visiting the Bordeaux wine region. If you want to stay the night in a winery, check out my article about the best vineyard accommodations in Bordeau

Bordeaux wine region map
By Domenico-de-ga, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1599323

Bordeaux wine region- what you need to know

There are a stunning 7,000 wineries in Bordeaux and 57 appellations in the Bordeaux wine region. The appellations range from the world-famous Medoc appellation to the lesser-known but lovely Entre-Deux-Mers. Unbeknownst to many, the Bordeaux wine region produces delicious whites on top of its famous reds. Altogether, Bordeaux wineries produce 2.5 billion dollars worth of wine per year from 900 million bottles!

Over 86% of wines in the Bordeaux wine region are reds made from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc grapes.

Wine harvest in Medoc - one of Bordeaux wine regions
Harvest in Medoc by Lost in Bordeaux

The Bordeaux wine region is arguably the most famous wine region on Earth. The unique nutrient-dense soil has filtered down over centuries from the Pyrenees mountains, through the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, into the ocean, forming the Bordeaux wine region.

You may also find that the people from this region of France are more down-to-Earth and welcoming than their Northern neighbors. This makes touring Bordeaux wineries a warm and pleasant experience.

For a closer look at the appellations, let’s pull out the Bordeaux wine map

South of the Gironde estuary, we have the Left Bank, which includes eight Medoc appellations (including Margaux, Haut-Médoc, Pauillac, etc.), Graves (including Pessac- Leognan), and Sauternes and Barsac.

To the north of the estuary is the Right Bank, which includes the Blaye, Côtes-de-Bourg, Fronsac, Pomerol, and Saint Émilion appellations. 

Finally, the Entre-Deux-Mers sub-region is between the two banks. That’s the biggest wine sub-region of Bordeaux and where most of the white wines are produced.

The amount of wineries here is overwhelming and it’s really to decide what region you should go to. 

However, here’s a tip from me! Check your visit falls on one of the portes ouvertes events in the region. These are open-door events organized by the different appellations where you have the opportunity to visit several wineries at once. The open-door events are free and open to all. Check out my article about the open days in the chateaux of Bordeaux, to see all the upcoming events.

Château Beauregard - Pomerol- portes ouvertes
Château Beauregard – Pomerol

The 5 Bordeaux wine sub-regions you need to know

Saint Emilion – the Most Famous Bordeaux Wine Region

Saint-Emilion is famous for the hillside architecture that makes it a UNESCO World Heritage site. But don’t let your eyes distract your taste buds. This region’s wines are made from deep Merlot and Cabernet Franc, making the wine soft, and tannin-light. It is home to around 800 wineries.

Saint-Emilion is a land, or terroir (break that out for your tour guide for brownie points), of contradictions. Its people and its wine are warm and approachable, but absolutely elite. The Saint Emilion appellation and its four satellite appellations ( Lussac-Saint-Émilion, Montagne-Saint-Émilion, Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion, and Saint-Georges-Saint-Émilion.) are home to generational wineries. Think old-school families that bought the land years ago and saw the value skyrocket since. But also think of centuries of passed-down knowledge.

The strict guidelines that Saint-Emilion wines must follow are even presided over by the Jurade – a group of people that “bear witness to the traditions of the past.”

Pomerol is another rich red found in the Saint Emilion region. It is fruity, dark, and very drinkable. 

Best wineries to visit in Saint Emilion - Chateau de Pressac
Chateau Pressac in Saint Emilion – by Lost in Bordeaux

Consider visiting Chateau Pressac for beautiful views and rich family history, Chateau Bernateau for a family-run visit and open grounds, and Chateau Coutet for a 400-year-old winery and scenic view. More information on each can be found in my guide to the wineries of Saint Emilion here.

Before going be sure to check out my articles about Saint Emilion:

A detailed guide to Saint Emilion
How to get to Saint Emilion from Bordeaux
The best wineries to visit in Saint Emilion
Where to stay in Saint Emilion

Medoc –  the most prestigious wine region

Instead of a heavy reliance on Merlot like Saint-Emilion, the 584 Medoc wineries grow a more diverse mix of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot grapes. The Medoc is located on the peninsula between the Gironde estuary and the Atlantic Ocean. 

Over many years, the estuary carried mineral-rich water from the Pyrenees, through the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, to form the peninsula. As a result, the soil is resistant to moisture, and is ideal for slow-ripening grapes, resulting in some of the most expensive wines in the world. With good reason – they’re delicious.

Besides being prestigious, Medoc is a leader in innovation for winegrowers across the world. Medoc winemakers were the first to exclude rotten grapes from the vinification process and to age wine in oak barrels, for two of many examples.

Some of the comforting flavors of Medoc wines are red and blackberries, dark cherry, hints of vanilla, and roasted coffee with aging. A perfect wine to relax at home with once you leave the beautiful vineyards of the Medoc. You can imagine that you’re back to bright green vineyards overlooking the water as far as the eye can see!

Chateau loudenne on the Medoc wine route
The pink house – Château Loudenne by Lost in Bordeaux

Some wineries I enjoyed visiting in the Médoc region are: Chateau d’Arsac (for its stunning art), Château Marquis de Terme (if you want to have lunch in a vineyard), or Château Lamothe Bergeronhere are all my Médoc recommendations.

The best way to explore the Medoc is to rent a car, but you can also visit many chateaux in Medoc by public transport. Read my article to discover all the wineries reachable by train from Bordeaux.

Graves and Pessac Leognan – The Oldest Wine Region in Bordeaux

What makes Graves and Pessac-Léognan unique is its enchanting landscape of pine forests, which shield the vines from the region’s humidity and winds. Known as the only area in Bordeaux producing both red and white wines in abundance, it’s a must-visit for wine lovers who appreciate nature’s beauty. If you’re curious to explore this prestigious region in more depth, check out my latest article on the best wineries to visit in Pessac-Léognan and discover why it’s such a standout in the Bordeaux wine scene!

The red wines created by Pessac’s 29 wineries have a breadth of flavor that is unique to the region: from smoky and cassis-filled wines to light, drinkable wines. The reds are made from Cabernet Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. The whites are made from Sauvignon Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle.

The dry white wines produced here are crisp and citrus, green apples, and honey. Just the smell transports me to one of the oyster shacks in the Bassin d’Arcachon. Bordelais people flock to these incredibly cheap and high-quality oyster providers every spring, summer, and fall (whenever they can) to gorge themselves on oysters, shrimp, and glasses of Pessac. If you’re interested in combining these two great pleasures of the region – its wine and oysters – see my article on the Bay of Arcachon.

Some winery suggestions in Pessac Leognan are:

Château Pape Clément in Pessac

Château Pape Clément is a Grand Cru Classé wine labeled under the Pessac Leognan appellation. The château offers daily visits in both French and English as well as winemaking workshops where you can assemble your own wine. 

You can book the tour online – just click here. It’s also one of the most beautiful luxury hotels in Bordeaux

Château Larrivet Haut Brion

A beautiful estate with stunning gardens and a very artistic Vat room. The winery is located around 20 minutes’ drive from Bordeaux. Book your visit here

Château Larrivet Haut Brion - Pessac Leognan with kids
Château Larrivet Haut Brion

The best way is to rent a car but you can also visit many chateaux in Pessac Leognan by public transport. Find more details in my article on car-free winery visiting.

Sauternes and Barsac -discover the white sweet wine of Bordeaux

To take a break from dry white wines and dive into sweet ones, Sauternes is your go-to. The subregion benefits from noble rot – the shrooms that form on the vines from the morning mist from the humidity of the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. This gives the grapes a great variety of concentration, acidity, and complexity. The assemblages produced here include Semillion, Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Gris, and Muscadelle grapes.

As a fan of the occasional glass of sweet wine, I find the rich, amber color and the sweet flavors of peach and even “brioche” are the perfect end to a weekend spent among friends and family. A sweet – but not too sweet! – end to time spent enjoying myself before starting the working week.

Château d'Arche in Sauternes - wineries in Bordeaux
by Lost in Bordeaux

My favorite wineries in this region include Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey if you’re feeling fancy, Chateau d’Arche for 17th-century views, and Chateau Guiraud, which has made it into the big leagues: Grand Cru Classé. There are only 27 wineries in this region. You can find more details on these vineyards in my guide to Sauternes here.

How to Get There

You have to have a car to visit this region. Otherwise, take a train to Langon and a taxi from there.

Blaye and Bourg

This region is actually two regions, named – you guessed it – Blaye and Bourg. It produces dry white wines from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon grapes and drinkable red wines from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The region contains another UNESCO world heritage site in Bordeaux – the Vauban Citadel. 

Both are two of the most beautiful villages around Bordeaux

What is unique about the region is the ability to see it from the boat, on the river. It is a quieter experience than some of the other subregions and has its own wonders. These include white stone buildings, valleys of green vineyards, water views, and roman churches. Imagine yourself as the hero or heroine in a movie about “remote” romantic wine regions in France. 

Wineries to Visit in Blaye and Bourg

In Blaye, think of visiting the Chateau Monconseil Gazin. In Bourg, consider the Château le Clos de Notaire with its amazing view (see their website).

Château le Clos de Notaire - Bourg one of Bordeaux's wine regions
Château le Clos de Notaire – by Lost in Bordeaux

Entre Deux Mers – the white wine of Bordeaux

Entre-deux-Mers is located between the Garonne and Dordogne rivers and is bordered by the estuary formed by the two rivers in the North. Its soil is made of gravel and limestone. It classically produces dry white wines that are wonderful for a lunch on the terrace. 

 However, in the 20th century, winery owners in the region saw the writing on the wall and many replaced their white grape plants with red. 

Only the white wines from the region can be labeled under the Entre deux Mers appellation. The red varieties produced in this region can only be called Bordeaux or Bordeaux Superior. Although wine experts claim that the wine in this region pales in comparison to that of the other wine regions, Bordeaux Superior is pretty good. It is soft, but not light, and makes me think of charcuterie boards shared with a loved one in a cramped Parisian apartment, vespa rides, and discovering France.

In the Entre Deux Mers region, you can also find excellent sweet wines like Sainte-Croix-du-Mont and Loupiac.

The view from the beautiful Chateau Malrome in Entre Deux Mers
The view from Chateau Mallrome in the Entre deux Mers region – by Lost in Bordeaux

Entre Deux Mers is home to Chateau Biac, home to the Asseily family. Youmna, the matriarch, is well-known for her mastery of wine and French food and for her amazing hospitality. A visit to Chateau Biac feels like a visit between friends. Youmna is a perfect example of the warmth of the vineyard owners in this region. 

Another great estate to visit is Chateau Lestrille, which produces red, white, and rose wines.

How to Visit Wineries in Bordeaux

There are many ways to visit wineries in the Bordeaux wine region. You can take a group tour, or a private guide, or do it on your own by train, car, or even biking. 

Let’s break down the options. 

Taking a tour guide in Bordeaux

Going on a group/ private tour will most probably leave you with better knowledge about the wines of Bordeaux. It also takes off the stress of organizing the visit and you can drink a lot of wine without worrying about driving back to Bordeaux. 

The downside of it is usually the price. Taking a guide can be pretty expensive. 

If you’re looking for a wine tour from Bordeaux, here are a few good options:

Saint-Émilion Food and Wine Tour – day trip to Saint Emilion that includes a visit to three different chateaux and a fun picnic. Book it here

Afternoon Wine Tasting in the Medoc RegionAn afternoon trip to Medoc that includes two types of chateaux, a Great Classified Growth estate, and a small. Book the tour here

An electric Bike wine tour – a fun bike tour that includes a visit to two chateaux, a picnic, and a stunning ride in the vineyards of Saint Emilion. Book here.

Wine tour in Saint Emilion
A tour in Saint Emilion – by Lost in Bordeaux

Wine touring by public transport

Most wineries are located in very rural parts of the region and require a car to get to. Having said that, you have a few great chateaux in Saint Emilion, Medoc, and Pessac Leognan you can visit by train or buy. 

Read my article about the best wineries in Bordeaux to visit by public transport

Visiting wineries by car

Now let’s talk about my favorite option which is discovering the wineries of Bordeaux on your own by car. I feel like driving along the vineyards is an important part of the experience, which also allows getting to more distant chateaux. 

Also if you have a car or rent one in advance, it can be a rather cheap experience, compared to an organized wine tour. If you’re looking to rent a car, here’s a website to help you choose the best deal in Bordeaux

If you’re visiting Bordeaux for the first time, be sure to check up my ultimate guide to Bordeaux, which will get you familiar with all the “must” places to visit in Bordeaux. To help you to choose a hotel in Bordeaux I’ve gathered a list of the best hotels in the center of Bordeaux as well as a guide to the districts of Bordeaux to help you choose your preferred location.

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

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*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂