Pilgrims and Wine: A Self-Guided Tour of Saint Émilion’s Secrets

Saint-Émilion , France

Pilgrims and Wine: A Self-Guided Tour of Saint Émilion’s Secrets

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Saint-Émilion rises from a limestone plateau where medieval pilgrims once sought miracles and modern visitors hunt down the perfect glass of wine. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll find out how an 8th century hermit’s cave became the foundation for Europe’s most extraordinary underground church and the world’s first UNESCO World Heritage wine region.

The tour starts at the iconic Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion, a cathedral-sized hollow carved directly into the cliff, where you’ll trace the area’s evolution from a spiritual retreat to a prosperous medieval commune. You'll also Saint-Émilion Collegial Catholic Church at Saint-Émilion, where canons once lived, prayed, and shaped the town’s spiritual life.

I’ll show you about Saint-Émilion’s dual identity, with over 800 wineries occupying the same terroir that sustained medieval monasteries. The tour ends at the peaceful ruins of the Cloître des Cordeliers, where sparkling wine ages in limestone caves three kilometers deep.

Available options

Pilgrims and Wine: A Self-Guided Tour of Saint Émilion’s Secrets

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

You’ll catch a glimpse of Château Ausone, a prestigious Saint-Émilion estate renowned for its exceptional Bordeaux wines. Please note that admission to the château and any tastings or activities are not included in this tour.

You’ll pass by the Tour du Roy, a historic stone tower in Saint-Émilion once used for defensive and ceremonial purposes. Please note that admission to the tower is not included in this tour.

You’ll pass by the Couvent des Jacobins, a historic Dominican convent in Saint-Émilion now known for its vineyard and wine production. Please note that admission to the convent and any related activities are not included in this tour.

You’ll catch a glimpse of the Cloître des Cordeliers, a former Franciscan monastery in Saint-Émilion now famed for its sparkling wines and peaceful gardens. Please note that admission and any related activities are not included in this tour.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour starts at Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Saint-Émilion

Saint-Émilion is a picturesque medieval village in the Bordeaux wine region of France, renowned for its stunning architecture, rich history, and world-class vineyards. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Top Attractions

Monolithic Church

A stunning underground church carved from a single limestone rock, dating back to the 13th century.

Historical 30-45 minutes €9

Château de Saint-Émilion

A medieval castle with panoramic views of the village and surrounding vineyards.

Historical 1 hour €8

Saint-Émilion Vineyards

World-renowned vineyards producing some of the finest wines in the region.

Nature Half-day to full day Varies by winery

Must-Try Local Dishes

Foie Gras

A rich, creamy pâté made from duck or goose liver, often served with toast.

Appetizer Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Canelé

A small pastry with a soft, custardy center and a caramelized, rum-flavored crust.

Dessert Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Wine tours Hiking in nearby vineyards Wine tasting Dining at local restaurants Visiting historical sites Attending local festivals Indoor wine tastings Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The peak season offers pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the vineyards and historical sites. The village is lively with festivals and wine events.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F