Set 45 minutes east of Bordeaux on the edge of the Dordogne region, Saint-Émilion has become synonymous with some of the finest wines in the world. A highly regarded UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town — home to just 2000 people — is also a cultural and foodie hotspot, perfect for romantic honeymoons or special trips with friends and family. The region’s popularity means that there’s an excellent array of B&Bs, hotels and converted châteaux to choose as your base. Some of the best places to stay in Saint-Émilion even boast their own vineyards: a wine-lover’s dream.

Discover Saint-Émilion’s ancient roots at the Place de l’Eglise Monolithique, named for an iconic 12th-century church hewn from limestone, and soak up the sunshine with a coffee on the square. Guided walking tours reveal subterranean labyrinths hidden under winding streets, beautiful Romanesque churches, and the grotto where Saint Émilion reputedly lived. The Bell Tower is a local landmark, as is the Maison du Vin.

Explore the town on two wheels, or venture into the surrounding vineyards for tours, tastings, bicycle excursions and horse riding before returning for epic dinners at some of the best places to stay in Saint-Émilion. Particularly popular during the summer months, our top spots are well worth booking in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in Saint-Emilion

For Foodies

• Hostellerie de la Plaisance is an elegant luxury hotel with 17 rooms and four suites overlooking picturesque vineyards. Award-winning French chef Philippe Etchebest crafts Michelin-starred cuisine, paired with some of the cellar's 700+ bottles, half of which are from local vineyards. A gastronomic gem.
• Logis de la Cadène boasts one of the oldest restaurants in Saint-Emilion. Chef Alexandre Baumard now specialises in inventive takes on classical French dishes. The four welcoming rooms are a brilliant place to lay your head after dinner. A foodie favourite.

For a Vineyard Escape

• Les Clefs de Troplong Mondot is tucked within its own vineyards, known for producing particularly highly-regarded wines. Book a private two-bedroom house or one of two romantic suites to hide away in utter bliss. For wine lovers, foodies and romantics looking to stay at a classic winery.
• Le Relais de Franc Mayne, a working vineyard and upmarket B&B, is an oenophile's dream. Set amid the vines just outside St Emilion, the hotel has individually themed rooms — think 'Out of Africa' or 'Pop Art' — a natural, chlorine-free pool and acres of vineyards. Indulge in free wine tastings from the extenive cellars; also perfect for a nightcap after dinner in town.
• Château de Pitray has just four traditional B&B rooms in a remarkable castle. Set in a 200-acre estate, the property offers a swimming pool, tennis, horse riding and walking trails. The big draw for wine connoisseurs is the château's vineyard, producing 240,000 bottles per year and offering terrific tours and tastings.
• Château de Castelneau has been owned by the same family for nine generations. Book one of three guestrooms, and spend your days touring the onsite winery, tasting superb vintages and exploring the region. A wine-focused stay.

For Couples

• 5 Lasserre promises a hip, adults-only stay in the Saint-Emilion region. The four suites and one duplex apartment have exposed brick walls, contemporary design pieces and expansive rural views. Kick back by the pool, savour farm-to-table fare and explore the wine country. A trendy bolthole for stylish couples.
• Château Grand Barrail sits in a seven-acre park in the heart of Bordeaux's wine-producing region. This opulent, 46-room hotel has a gourmet restaurant, indulgent spa and lavish guestrooms with four-poster beds. A romantic choice for a classic French escape.
• Clos 1906 is a chic B&B with an antiques gallery, close to a number of top-notch wineries. An 18th century manor house for well-heeled couples with four smart, understated rooms, a two-bedroom flat and a swimming pool. Ideal for couples or friends.
• Château du Palanquey is a romantic couples' base, with a soothing spa, swimming pool and modern and vintage design pieces in spacious guestrooms. A relaxing countryside château, east of Saint-Emilion.

For Families

• Château de Courtebotte is an imposing 17th-century castle on the banks of the Dordogne River. Pick this place for the comfortable, family-friendly rooms and multi-bedroom cottages, the proximity to popular wineries and activities, and the laid-back feel.
• Le Pavillion, St Emilion sleeps up to 10 people in five sophisticated double bedrooms. The ultimate private villa rental for wine lovers, it's perfectly placed for Saint-Emilion winery visits and overlooks rows of vines. Dominated by an elegant spiral staircase, this heritage mansion has a well-equipped kitchen, wine club-style sitting room, library and pretty courtyard garden. Ideal for a dream celebration with friends or family.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport, 45 minutes from Saint-Emilion by car. Alternatively, take the TGV from Paris via Bordeaux, arriving in just under four hours.
• Gironde is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between May and September for warm weather (with temperatures peaking around 27°C). Spring or autumn visitors can expect cooler temperatures. The harvest season is inevitably busy, but very appealing.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Bordeaux.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Gironde.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in St Émilion