There can be no better place to start a visit to this attractive region than at Saint-Emilion, heartland of Merlot grape growing. This area produces delicious, rich, round wines. The vines on the "hill of a thousand chateaux" reach right up to Saint Emilion's 13th-century town walls and the surrounding moat dug out of solid rock. Members of the local wine brotherhood, the Jurats, proclaim the vintage banns in much the same way as their ancestors did during the reign of Richard the Lionheart. You will visit the main monuments of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Collegiale Church and its magnificent cloister from the 12th century, the ramparts, the marketplace, and the monolithic church or underground church from the 9th and 12th centuries. Consecrated to the holy hermit by the Benedictine monks, this is unique in Europe for its size. It represents a stunning transformation of the natural caves in the cliff-face that have been used for religious purposes from prehistoric times to the present day. Beside the church, the catacombs include a charnel house and a number of sepulchres from the 11th and 12th centuries. The Hermitage was constructed by transforming a natural grotto. Strolling the streets, you will also see the Cadene Gate and the King's Tower. After your guided visit, you will have time at leisure for shopping, independent exploration and lunch on your own. In the afternoon, before driving back to the ship, stop at a wine chateau estate, tour the cellars and learn about the wine making process before a wine tasting of local produces. 

Note: The order of sights visited may vary depending on the number of coaches planned on that tour. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. Warm garment recommended too during underground monuments’ visit. This tour is not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties due to steep cobblestoned streets in Saint-Emilion.