In autumn 2026, the grape harvest offers a unique opportunity to discover Saint-Émilion, its vineyard-dotted countryside and its heritage, whilst enjoying a romantic getaway for two at the Château de Castelneau, in the peaceful setting of the Entre-deux-Mers region.
The 2026 Grape Harvest Festival is a great opportunity to organise a a romantic break near Saint-Émilion. In Saint-Léon, we welcome you to the Château de Castelneau, a family-run estate nestled amongst the vineyards, between Bordeaux and the medieval town. Here, you can experience the hustle and bustle of the vineyard in autumn, before retreating to the peaceful surroundings of a historic residence in the Entre-deux-Mers region.
Discover Saint-Émilion during the grape harvest
The grape harvest holds a special place in the Bordeaux wine-growing calendar. It marks the culmination of a year’s work in the vineyards and the start of a new phase in the cellars. In Saint-Émilion, this period offers the chance to see the vineyards from a different perspective, in an atmosphere closely linked to wine culture and local traditions.
The 2026 Grape Harvest Festival is part of this world. According to the programme announced by the organisers, visitors can enjoy a range of events dedicated to the heritage, local area and wines of Saint-Émilion. As timetables, access conditions and details of the activities are subject to change, we advise you to check the’Grand Saint-Émilionnais Tourist Office before you set off.
A world-renowned wine-growing heritage
Saint-Émilion is not just about the fame of its wines. The town is also known for its architecture, its religious monuments and its landscape, shaped by several centuries of wine-growing. The Jurisdiction of Saint-Émilion is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site’UNESCO since 1999 as a historic cultural landscape dedicated to viticulture.
You can explore the town on foot to admire its stone buildings, squares, sloping streets and views over the rows of vines. In October, the softer light and autumn colours lend a different feel to the landscape. This season is particularly well-suited to couples who want to take their time, alternating between sightseeing and walks, before rounding off the day in peaceful accommodation.
To help you plan your visit, the website at Gironde Tourism It also provides information on Saint-Émilion, the Libourne region and ways to explore the vineyards.
Staying in a château between Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion
After a day spent at the Grape Harvest Festival, we look forward to welcoming you to Château de Castelneau in Saint-Léon. Our estate is situated in the heart of the Entre-deux-Mers region, in a lush, green setting surrounded by vineyards. This location allows you to visit Saint-Émilion whilst staying away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowds.
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We offer a range of holiday cottages and guest rooms in Gironde, suitable for couples, families or groups. Each accommodation blends into the estate’s historic setting and allows guests to enjoy the outdoor spaces, the vineyard and the tranquillity of the property.
Combine a romantic getaway with a wine-tasting experience
A romantic weekend in the vineyards is the perfect opportunity to enjoy simple activities together, without having to travel too far. You could spend a day in Saint-Émilion, then set aside some time to explore Château de Castelneau and the Entre-deux-Mers region.
We offer Tours and tastings in the heart of the Entre-deux-Mers region. They offer a better understanding of the estate’s family history, our terroir and the various stages of our work. The tour thus provides a natural complement to the grape harvest-related events organised in Saint-Émilion.
The aim is not to organise a series of tastings, but to put wine back into its context. The soils, grape varieties, climatic conditions, work in the vineyards and decisions made in the winery all contribute to a wine estate’s identity. The official website of the Bordeaux wines It also introduces the appellations, terroirs and winemaking practices of the Bordeaux region.
What is there to see around Castelneau Castle?
You can extend your stay by exploring several places near Saint-Léon. The Entre-deux-Mers region is home to villages, fortified towns, wine estates and historic monuments. This diversity allows you to put together a well-rounded itinerary combining heritage, nature and wine tourism.
To find out more about our presence and our history, please visit the page dedicated to our wine estate in the Entre-deux-Mers region. It sets out the framework within which we welcome visitors and run our family business.
Plan your weekend in October 2026
The grape harvest period depends on the ripeness of the grapes, the grape varieties and the weather conditions. Harvest dates therefore vary from one estate to another. Similarly, the programme for a festival or event may be subject to change by the organisers.
Before you set off, we recommend that you check the final dates, timetables and any booking conditions with the official sources. You can then choose your accommodation and spread your visits over several days, without overloading your itinerary.
To check the availability of our accommodation or to find out more about our tours, you can contact the Château de Castelneau. We can help you find the solution best suited to the length of your stay and the activities you’d like to organise.
FAQ
When is the 2026 Grape Harvest Festival taking place in Saint-Émilion?
Please check the dates and the final programme with the Grand Saint-Émilionnais Tourist Office or the event organisers. We recommend that you check the official information before booking your stay.
Where should you stay for a romantic break near Saint-Émilion?
The Château de Castelneau welcomes you to Saint-Léon, in the heart of the Entre-deux-Mers region. Our guest rooms and holiday cottages offer you the chance to stay on a historic wine-growing estate, situated between Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion.
Can we visit Castelneau Castle during our stay?
Yes, we organise tours and tastings that give you the chance to discover the estate’s history, our terroir and our winemaking activities. We recommend booking in advance to check availability.
What is there to do in Saint-Émilion in October?
You can visit the medieval town, take in the vineyard landscapes, explore the historic monuments and take part in the events organised around wine and the grape harvest. It is best to check the access requirements for each activity.
Is Château de Castelneau situated in Saint-Émilion?
No, our estate is situated in Saint-Léon, in the Gironde, within the Entre-deux-Mers wine region. Its location between Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion means you can explore several destinations in the Bordeaux wine region during a single stay.
Does the estate only welcome couples?
No. We also welcome families, groups and businesses. The Château de Castelneau offers accommodation and facilities suitable for holidays, for Weddings in a château in Gironde, at receptions and business events.
