Beaujolais Day Guided Tour – Winery Tours and Tastings

A Detailed Look at the Beaujolais Day Guided Tour – Winery Tours and Tastings

If you’re eyeing a trip to Lyon and want to explore one of France’s most celebrated wine regions, the Beaujolais Day Guided Tour might just be your perfect pick. This experience promises a full day of wine tasting, charming village strolls, and a chance to meet local winemakers, all wrapped up in around 8 to 9 hours. From the moment you read about it, a couple of things stand out: the intimate group size and the focus on authentic tastings in two different estates.

What really caught my eye is how this tour seamlessly combines cultural exploration with wine education—plus, the fact that it’s guided by someone who truly knows the region, Justine Poncet. On the flip side, the price of about $177 per person might seem a little steep if you’re on a tight budget, but considering the personalized guidance, tastings, and transport in a luxury vehicle, it’s easier to see the value.

This tour is ideal for anyone who loves wine, history, and scenic countryside—whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply curious about French wine culture. It’s also a great way to soak in local vibes without the fuss of planning every detail yourself. Now, let’s break down what makes this experience stand out and what you can realistically expect.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour offers a personalized experience.
• Expert Guidance: Led by local guide Justine, you’ll gain insider insights into Beaujolais wines and villages.
• Authentic Tastings: Enjoy 10+ wines across two estates, with in-depth comments on each.
• Scenic Villages: Stops in picturesque villages like Oingt and Fleurie let you soak in authentic French charm.
• Tasty Regional Lunch: A stop for regional cuisine in Mont Brouilly lets you sample local flavors (lunch not included).
• All-Inclusive Feel: Transportation, tastings, and guide are covered—just bring curiosity and appetite.

The Experience: What It’s Like from Start to Finish

Starting in Lyon: The Comfort of the Journey

Your day begins at 9 a.m. at the statue of Saint Exupéry in Place Bellecour, right in the heart of Lyon. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable Mercedes vehicle, perfectly suited for a small group. The ride itself is part of the charm—it’s smooth, air-conditioned, and spacious enough to relax as you head toward the countryside.

The early start means you’ll get a good jump on the day, and with just up to 8 people, you’re not lost in a crowd. The guide, Justine, is there to keep things engaging and informative, sharing insights about the region’s history, vineyards, and winemaking secrets.

Exploring Oingt: A Village Frozen in Time

The first notable stop is in Oingt, often called one of France’s most beautiful villages. Here, you’ll wander its narrow cobbled streets, taking in medieval architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. This stop takes about 30 minutes and is free—perfect for quick photos and soaking up the vibe.

What visitors love, based on reviews, is how authentic this tiny village feels. It’s a chance to step back in time and see the kind of charming, well-preserved streets that make rural France so captivating.

Wine Tasting in the South of Beaujolais

Next, you’ll visit a winery in the southern part of Beaujolais, where you’ll be welcomed warmly. The guided tasting involves sampling between 4 and 6 wines, with explanations about the types of grapes, the winemaking process, and aging techniques.

Many travelers have commented on how knowledgeable the guide is—“Very informative and friendly,” as one review put it. The tasting lasts about an hour and 15 minutes, giving you plenty of time to savor the flavors and ask questions. Expect to discover both red and white wines, including some exceptional white varieties made from Chardonnay grapes.

Scenic Views & Cultural Highlights

After the tasting, you’ll enjoy more scenic drives through villages like Bagnols and the Pierres Dorées area, renowned for its golden stone houses. These spots are picture-perfect and offer insight into the region’s architectural style and local history.

Regional Lunch in Mont Brouilly

No wine trip is complete without food, and here you’ll have a chance to enjoy a traditional regional lunch in a local restaurant in Mont Brouilly. The menu features local dishes, with the opportunity to pair them with Beaujolais wines.

The lunch isn’t included in the tour price but is reserved for all participants, typically costing around €25 per person. It’s a relaxed way to refuel and discuss the morning’s tastings. Many reviews highlight the authenticity and quality of the regional cuisine, making it a highlight for many.

Visiting Fleurie: More Wines & New Terroirs

Post-lunch, the tour heads north to Fleurie, famous for its delicate, fragrant wines. Here, you’ll visit another estate, tasting 4 to 6 more wines. The guide explains how different terroirs and grape varieties influence the final product, giving you a nuanced understanding that goes beyond just drinking.

Travelers consistently praise the depth of knowledge conveyed during these tastings—“Great explanations about terroirs and winemaking,” one review notes. It’s these details that make the experience memorable, especially if you’re interested in the different qualities of each wine.

Returning to Lyon: Reflecting on a Day Well Spent

By 5:30 or 6 p.m., you’ll be back in Lyon, feeling full of new knowledge, delicious wine, and beautiful views. The ride back is a good time to relax or chat about your favorite parts of the day.

What’s Included & What to Consider

Included in the tour:

• Two tastings in different estates, with around 10 wines in total
• Guided explanations from a local expert
• Meeting with winemakers or estate members
• Transportation in a luxury Mercedes vehicle
• Snacks during tastings
• Small group size for a more intimate experience

What’s not included:

• Lunch (which is reserved for the group at a local restaurant, costing about €25)
• Toilets on board (so plan accordingly)

The tour offers excellent value if you appreciate quality wine tastings, local insights, and picturesque villages. The small group size and expert guidance tend to enhance the experience, making it more personal.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Are Saying

People raving about the knowledgeable guide—”Justine was very knowledgeable and engaging,” one reviewer said. They also emphasize how much they appreciated the stunning scenery and authentic wine experiences.

The reviews highlight how well the stops are timed, with many describing the vineyard visits as “perfect” and the tastings as “excellent”. One reviewer even called the van “spacious,” making the whole day comfortable.

Some mention the delightful village visits as being a highlight, especially in Oingt, which many agree is a must-see. The tasting in the southern Beaujolais estate, where one reviewer called it “delicious,” sounds like a real treat for wine lovers.

However, it’s worth noting that the lunch is not included. While the restaurant reservations are pre-arranged, you’ll want to budget for this separately.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who are genuinely interested in wine and want to learn more about Beaujolais in a relaxed setting. Because it’s limited to small groups, it’s great for those who prefer a more intimate, tailored experience rather than big bus crowds.

It’s also ideal if you value expert guidance and want to meet local winemakers, not just sample wines. If you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing with some walking and tasting, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region.

While not specifically geared toward children, families with older kids who enjoy wine and history could find it engaging. Just keep in mind the tasting aspect is aimed at adults, and the drive and pace might not suit very young children.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9 a.m. and returning to Lyon around 5:30-6 p.m.

What is the group size?
Groups are limited to up to 8 people, which helps keep the experience personal and relaxed.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included in the price. The tour arranges a reservation at a local restaurant, with menus starting around €25 per person.

Are tastings included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy two tastings at different estates, sampling about 10 wines overall, with guided commentary.

What language is the guide available in?
Guidance is provided in both English and French, either simultaneously or as needed.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The journey is in a spacious, air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle, making the drive pleasant.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you flexibility.

Is this suitable for wine beginners?
Yes, the guide explains wine varieties and processes, making it accessible even if you’re new to wine tasting.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Just bring your curiosity and an appetite to learn and taste. No special preparations required.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an authentic, friendly, and well-organized way to taste Beaujolais wines while exploring charming villages, this guided tour hits the sweet spot. The combination of knowledgeable guiding, stunning scenery, and tasting in two different estates offers a comprehensive picture of the region’s wine culture. While the price might give some pause, the small-group setting and in-depth experiences justify it for many visitors.

Ideal for wine lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a thoughtfully curated day outside Lyon, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Beaujolais’s beauty and flavors. Just remember to pace yourself, and plan for the extra expense of lunch if you want to indulge fully.

Want to Know More?

• What’s the best time of year to go? The tour is available year-round, but consider the weather and vineyard scenery when choosing your date.
• How physically demanding is it? It involves walking through villages and estate visits, but overall, it’s quite manageable for most travelers.
• Can I customize the experience? The small-group format means flexibility is possible—just ask when booking.
• Is it suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely, many solo travelers enjoy the intimacy and opportunity to meet others.
• How far in advance should I book? On average, travelers book about 59 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.

This Beaujolais tour offers a relaxed, enriching day that’s perfect for those eager to combine wine, culture, and lovely scenery. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, it’s definitely worth considering.