Saint Emilion town, Gironde
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Saint Emilion village - by Seb Richard on Google
Description
Saint-Émilion is a small town situated 40km to the east of Bordeaux, close to Libourne. It is famous for its wine appellation, its food specialities and its long history with well-preserved monuments that makes it a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town originally developed around the hermitage set up by the monk Émilion in the 8th century and key structures include inter alia: the Monolithic Church, the hermitage and Trinity chapel, the Cordeliers Cloister, the tour du Roy (King's tower) and the Collegiate Church. Wine has historically been central to the city's economy and the AOC (appellation d'origine contrôlée) spreads over 5,400ha with famous states such as Château Cheval Blanc, Château Angélus, Château Ausone and Château Pavie - those four belong to the elite tier of "Premier grand cru classé." Typically, wines are a blend of Merlot (~60%), Cabernet Franc (~30%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (~10%).
Access & Transport
By car from Bordeaux, take the N89 to Libourne but avoid the town by taking the D1089 "ring road" and then the D243. There is also a train station about 1.5km south of the old town and the monolithic church - it is a ~30mins ride from Gare Saint Jean in Bordeaux on TERs headed towards Périgueux or Bergerac.
Instructions & Recommendations
We would suggest including a guided tour of the Monolithic Church or the entire town in your itinerary to get the most out of it and have lunch in town. This is a good place for an overnight stay as well. The surrounding villages, such as Pomerol, are also worth exploring by bicycle or by car.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral (no carbon footprint). Tourism helps preserve the town's and region's cultural heritage and provides economic activity to the community.
Conclusion
Saint-Émilion is a small village with a long history that has it all from a touristic standpoint. It is no wonder it is visited by about 1m people every year. If you can spare the time, we would suggest you to overnight there so you can enjoy the town, its countryside, and a good dinner with an extra glass of wine knowing you don't need to drive afterwards.
Key positive
Enough to see to occupy one full day or even a couple of days
Many great restaurants and an inviting countryside
Key negative
Very touristy in the summer
Suitability
The town has some steep streets and cobblestones so it can be tricky to navigate for visitors with reduced mobility that are not accompanied.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 45m
est. visit time:5h
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo