Surrounded by vineyard-blanketed hills, Saint-Emilion is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town in southwestern France. Grape vines were first planted here by the Romans when the settlement was known as Ascumbas. It was later renamed after a Breton monk, Emilion, who occupied a rock hermitage here in the 8th century.
Things to do in Saint-Émilion
One of Saint-Emilion’s most famous landmarks is the Monolithic Church, a partly subterranean complex that has been hewn from limestone. Dating back to the 12th century, it features three naves and is topped by a 68-metre-high bell tower. In addition to being visually striking, it offers a fascinating insight into the town’s religious activities during the Middle Ages.
You can also visit the Collegiate Church, which was built between the 12th and 15th centuries in a mixture of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. It is renowned for its peaceful cloisters and once housed Augustinian canons, although it now hosts art exhibitions and cultural events. A short walk away is the King’s Tower, which offers magnificent views across the surrounding vineyards.
No visit to Saint Emilion is complete without a tour of its wineries, which specialise in Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Soak up the sweeping panoramas from the Château de Pressac, go behind the scenes at the family-run Château Bernateau or relax in the tranquil gardens of the Château Coutet. Combining old and new is the Château la Croizille, which utilises both traditional and innovative winemaking techniques.
Getting around Saint-Émilion
Saint-Emilion is around 45 minutes’ drive from Bordeaux and Bordeaux–Merignac Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular buses connect to Saint-Emilion and the town is small enough to explore on foot. Wine tours are available for accessing the surrounding châteaux.