Bordeaux’s Little Sister – Saint-Émilion: Where to Stay and Indulge

May, 2006

I honestly could have stayed a week here exploring, relaxing and indulging in all the cultural spots in town.  If you are looking to stay longer than a day trip, may I suggest looking into the cute and affordable B&B options in town.  I would suggest considering any of the following:

Logis Des Jurats – A quaint B&B in the centre of Saint-Émilion allowing you to feel like a local right next to the main square, bars, restaurants and wine shops.

Le Pavillon – Enjoy some laid-back luxury in the heart of Saint-Émilion.

My favourite though is AirBnB, it truly is my ideal way to travel where you can live like a local experience the old world charm of the apartment and pick a place that meets your needs.  Overlooking the vineyards, in the centre of town, or close to the market and shops the possibilities are endless.  It is also economical as you can simply pick up goodies from the local shops. I love supporting local businesses when we travel, and making dinner at your temporary home.  If you’ve never stayed in an AirBnB before, use this coupon for up to $70 CDN off your first stay!

Now, onto the stuff trips and memories are made of.  Eating locally is always super important to me when we travel, as I love food and trying the local dishes is truly “la cerise sur le sundae” as the French would say.  So, where to eat you ask….let me tell you!

Some of the most indulgent things in France are simply wine and cheese and as I said before, Saint-Émilion is heaven on earth for foodies and wine lovers.  

Try a tasting plate at Le Bis by Baud et Millet and grab a table on the terrace for an epic view of the King’s tower.  The menu is filled with great options – a taster’s plate where you get 9 cheeses and 3 wines or perhaps you are feeling more like Fondue….let the menu enchant you.  There will be no judgement here if all you want to is eat cheese and drink wine –“à votre santé”!

Logis de la Cadene – A romantic little spot with an impressive wine list.  I recommend the tasting menu and to have the Sommelier pair your dishes with wine to truly enhance the taste.  The truffle risotto is noteworthy and should be one of your choices!

Le Tertre – Traditional French flare with local wine along a steep cobblestone street – yes please!  A delightful culinary experience in a sophisticated ambience.  May I suggest sitting in the wine cave – a truly unique experience.  

Truly this little town has amazing food, so you can’t go wrong at any of these top-notch French eateries.