Beaujolais Wine Tour – Tastings & Gourmet Picnic Lunch

Thinking about exploring France’s famous wine region but want to avoid the overwhelming crowds and tourist traps? This Beaujolais Wine Tour offers a cozy, in-depth look at some of the area’s best small producers along with a taste of local charm. From the moment you hear about it, you can see why many travelers give it a glowing rating—a perfect blend of wine, scenery, and good company.

What we really love about this experience is its small-group vibe, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds, and the delicious, locally sourced picnic lunch that feels more like a treat than a crowded buffet. On the flip side, the tour is fairly structured, so if you’re craving a freeform adventure or more winery visits, this might feel a bit limited. Still, for those wanting a relaxed, heartfelt introduction to Beaujolais and its villages, this tour hits the spot.

It’s especially well-suited for wine lovers who appreciate tasting in family-run wineries and enjoy combining scenic beauty with a slow, meaningful day out. If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or just want to soak up French countryside at a leisurely pace, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Intimate small-group experience keeps things personal and cozy
• Visit two family-owned wineries for authentic tastings and insights
• Enjoy a gourmet picnic with fresh local ingredients amid the vineyards
• Discover the charm of Pierres Dorées and a renowned “Most Beautiful Village of France”
• Scenic countryside and charming villages make for stunning photos and relaxing moments
• Valuable experience for wine enthusiasts looking for quality over quantity

An In-Depth Look at the Beaujolais Wine Tour

Starting Point: Lyon and the Convenience of Pickup

This tour kicks off in Lyon’s city center, specifically at Place des Terreaux. The organizer is quite communicative, coordinating the meeting point via messages to make sure everyone is on the same page. It’s a good move because it makes the start smooth, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Lyon’s layout.

The transportation is not explicitly detailed but is implied to be a comfortable drive to the vineyards, which helps conserve energy and time for the actual tasting and sightseeing. The total duration is around 8 hours, making it a full but relaxed day.

First Stop: Montmelas-Saint-Sorlin – A Scenic Apéro with a View

Within about 45 minutes, you’ll find yourself in Montmelas-Saint-Sorlin, where the highlight is a scenic apéro amid the vineyards. Expect a glass of local wine paired with cheeses and saucisson, with a backdrop of a medieval castle—a picture-perfect moment. This stop offers a gentle introduction to Beaujolais’ wine culture, with free admission but enough to set the tone for the day.

Reviews highlight that the group often enjoys these moments for their relaxed, social nature. One traveler appreciated “enjoying a delicious picnic lunch with fresh and local fruits, cheeses, and meats” after hours of tasting—highlighting how these stops aren’t rushed.

Family-Owned Wineries: Denice and Rivolet

Next, you’ll visit two small wineries in Denice and Rivolet, both family-owned, ensuring an authentic experience. The Denice stop lasts around 1 hour and 15 minutes, giving you ample time to explore, taste, and learn. Reviewers rave about the personal touch from the winemakers, many noting that they love hearing stories about how the wine is made.

The Rivolet visit is similar, about 1 hour and 15 minutes, and is often praised for the warmth and enthusiasm of the hosts. Expect to sample wines directly from the producers, with the chance to ask questions and get a sense of the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

The Gourmet Picnic: A Highlight

One of the best-reviewed aspects of this tour is the gourmet picnic. Sourced from local farmers, the spread includes fresh fruits, cheeses, and meats—perfect for pairing with your wine. The setting among the vineyards makes it all the more special.

Reviews describe this as “a delectable picnic amidst the vineyards,” where travelers can unwind, chat, and enjoy the peaceful countryside. It’s a great pause in the day that elevates the experience from simple wine tasting to a true taste of local life.

Discovering Pierres Dorées and Oingt

The tour concludes with a visit to Pierres Dorées, a village famous for its golden stone buildings and charming streets. As one reviewer put it, “the panoramic views and quaint village ambiance make this a perfect ending to the day.” It’s a great spot to soak up some French village charm, take photos, and enjoy the slow pace.

The final stop is Oingt, an officially recognized “Most Beautiful Village of France”, which offers a breathtaking view into the region’s heritage and architecture. It’s a lovely way to wind down, with about an hour to wander and take in the scenery.

Return to Lyon

The day wraps up with a return to Lyon, usually within an hour after exploring Oingt. The organizers aim for a drop-off at the original meeting point but may suggest alternative locations if needed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Many reviews mention the knowledge and friendliness of guides. Petra, the guide, is often praised for her attention to detail, kindness, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. Several travelers comment on how her personalized approach made the experience enjoyable and engaging.

The scenic beauty of the vineyards, villages, and countryside is consistently highlighted. With the small group size (a maximum of 8 travelers), you get a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions, photos, and relaxed conversations.

The wine tasting at each winery is described as authentic, with wines that are “great” and “exceptional,” often from family-run estates where the winemakers are passionate and eager to share their craft.

The Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At $196.66 per person, this tour is quite competitive considering it includes visits to multiple wineries, a gourmet picnic, and scenic stops. The reviews suggest that many find it excellent value for money—especially since the lunch is included, and the experience is personalized.

You’re paying for a well-organized, authentic day in one of France’s most picturesque regions, with plenty of opportunities to taste quality wines and absorb local culture.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers seeking a relaxed, intimate day with genuine family-owned wineries and picturesque villages. It’s perfect if you want a balanced mix of tasting, sightseeing, and picnicking without feeling rushed. The tour’s small size and friendly approach make it particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate personal stories and a slower pace.

While it isn’t explicitly tailored for children, families with older kids interested in wine, culture, and scenic exploring might also enjoy it. But if you’re looking for a very flexible or adventure-packed day, this might feel a bit too structured.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
Approximately 8 hours, from pickup in Lyon to return, including all stops.

What’s included in the price?
Visits to two family-owned wineries, a scenic apéro, a gourmet picnic, and sightseeing in charming villages.

Is there a limit on the number of guests?
Yes, the maximum group size is 8 travelers, which keeps things intimate and relaxed.

How do I meet the guide?
At Place des Terreaux in Lyon, with coordination sent via messages beforehand.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is this suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine, non-drinkers can enjoy the sights, food, and scenery, but tasting is part of the experience.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Wear comfortable shoes for walking, bring sun protection, and be ready for a leisurely day in the countryside.

Are the wineries family-friendly?
The experience is mostly geared toward adults, but older children with an interest in wine and culture might enjoy it.

How is the weather handled?
The tour is outdoors most of the time; check the forecast and dress accordingly.

Can I customize or ask for special arrangements?
The organizer is quite accommodating, especially if you reach out in advance.

Final Thoughts

This Beaujolais Wine Tour offers a well-balanced, authentic taste of the region’s small wineries, picturesque villages, and scenic landscapes. It’s clear from reviews that guides like Petra make the experience feel personal and genuine, while the delicious picnic and local wines add a special touch. The tour’s structure means you get a full day, but you won’t feel overwhelmed or rushed.

If you’re someone who loves wine and wants to explore with a small, friendly group, this tour provides great value and memorable moments. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate the charm of family-run vineyards and scenic countryside in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.

For travelers looking for a fun, honest, and immersive experience just outside Lyon, this Beaujolais wine tour could be the perfect choice.