Cotes du Rhone Wine Tour (9:00 am to 5:15 pm) – Small Group Tour from Lyon

If you’re imagining a full-day immersion into the wines and landscapes of the Northern Côtes du Rhône, this small-group tour from Lyon might just be what you’re looking for. Designed for wine lovers who want to experience the region’s best without the hassle of driving, this guided journey takes you through scenic vineyards, historic towns, and multiple wineries. It’s a chance to taste a broad spectrum of local varietals, learn about the region’s winemaking traditions, and enjoy the company of a knowledgeable guide.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with tasting—giving you a real sense of the area’s viticultural charm. Plus, the small group size (usually just 8 people) ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized insights. On the flip side, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget some extra time and money for a meal.

This experience is particularly well-suited for those who love wine, are curious about regional differences in grapes, or simply want a relaxed, well-organized day exploring the Rhône’s vineyards. If that sounds like your idea of a perfect day out, read on for the full lowdown.

Key Points

• Intimate, small-group setting enhances the personalized nature of the experience.
• Visits to three wineries allow for tasting a wide variety of local wines, including Côtes Rôtie, Syrah, and Viognier.
• Scenic vineyard views in terraced slopes and historic towns make the journey visually rewarding.
• Expert guide helps demystify the winemaking process and regional nuances.
• Tasting of 16-18 wines provides excellent value for wine enthusiasts.
• Price point is reasonable considering the comprehensive itinerary, multiple tastings, and scenic drives.

A Deeper Dive into the Tour Experience

When you sign up for this Cotes du Rhone wine tour, you’re in for a carefully curated day that combines sightseeing, wine education, and tasting. Starting from Lyon’s Bellecour Square, your guide will meet you in front of the tourist office and whisk you away in a cozy, air-conditioned minivan. The small-group setup—limited to 8 travelers—means you’ll get a more relaxed and engaging experience compared to larger tours.

Scenic Introduction in Vienne

Your first stop is Vienne, a city with roots stretching back to Roman times. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the Rhone valley from Notre Dame de Pipet Mount—a perfect way to ease into your day. Your guide will introduce you to the region’s many grape varietals and explain the philosophy behind the local wine-making approach, which hinges on the concept of “terroir”—the idea that soil, climate, and tradition shape the wine.

One of the standout features of this stop is the spectacular Roman theatre, which is still remarkably well-preserved. As your guide shares stories from ancient times, you’ll get a sense of how deeply intertwined wine is with the area’s history.

Exploring the Heart of Syrah in Ampuis

Next, you drive through Ampuis, known as the “world capital of Syrah”. You’ll cross the terraced slopes of Cote Rotie, where the vineyards cling to seemingly impossible hillsides with slopes between 30 and 60 degrees. The views are dramatic, and you’ll quickly understand why these slopes are prized for their exposure and drainage.

Your guide will point out the “Cote Brune” and “Cote Blonde” vineyards—two renowned terroirs that produce some of the most sought-after Syrah wines. As one reviewer put it, these hills “literally look roasted hillside,” and indeed, the sun-bathed slopes create a unique environment for the grapes.

Visiting Wineries and Tasting

The first winery visit is at Malleval, where you’ll step into the barrels room and learn about wine aging—a crucial part of the process that imparts complexity and depth. Tasting three whites and three reds, including Condrieu, St Joseph, and Cote Rotie, you’ll get to sample some of the region’s most famous appellations.

One review highlights that the wine selection was excellent and that the guide was skilled at explaining the nuances of each varietal, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Lunch Break (Own Expense)

After the morning’s tastings, the tour pauses for about an hour-and-a-quarter at a local restaurant in Les Roches-de-Condrieu. Here, you’ll find Côtes du Rhône cuisine, which pairs nicely with the wines you’ve tasted so far. Your guide can translate and explain the dishes, but keep in mind that lunch is not included, so plan your budget accordingly.

The Birthplace of Viognier in Condrieu

Post-lunch, the tour heads to Condrieu—the birthplace of the Viognier grape. You’ll learn just how close this varietal came to extinction not too long ago, making its survival and revival quite the story. This is a highlight for white wine fans, as Condrieu produces some of the most renowned Viognier wines in the world.

Visiting a family-owned winery, you’ll taste 5-6 different wines, including Condrieu, St Joseph, or Cote Rotie. The experience is relaxed, and the wines are often described as aromatic and expressive, with some reviewers emphasizing the “intense aromatic” qualities.

Final Winery and Return to Lyon

The last stop is at a third winery in Chavanay, where you’ll sample another five wines. The focus here is again on the Syrah and Viognier grapes, allowing you to compare and contrast how terroir influences flavor. The guide will help you appreciate these wines’ original terroir expressions before the group is transported back to Lyon.

You’ll arrive back at the starting point around 5:15 pm, ending a day filled with beautiful vistas, educational insights, and, of course, plenty of wine.

What We Loved About This Tour

The feedback from travelers is overwhelmingly positive, especially praising the knowledgeable guides—many describe Olivier as both fun and incredibly informative. As one reviewer said, “Olivier was an amazing host and very knowledgeable on the wines,” which makes all the difference when you’re trying to grasp regional nuances.

The scenic views, particularly over terraced slopes and historic towns, make this more than just a wine tasting. You get a real sense of the landscape, which adds depth to your understanding and appreciation of the wines.

Plus, the variety of wines tasted—up to 18 different varietals—means you leave with a broad tasting experience and a better sense of what makes the Rhône region unique.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the tour is thoughtfully organized, some points are worth noting. First, lunch is not included, so you’ll need to budget extra for a meal. The suggested restaurants are charming and serve local cuisine, but if you’re on a tight schedule or budget, you might want to bring snacks or plan accordingly.

The price of around $178 per person is quite reasonable considering the extensive tastings and scenic stops, but it’s still an investment. For serious wine enthusiasts, the value is high; for more casual drinkers, it’s a good introduction but not a casual, quick experience.

Lastly, the small-group format means more personalized attention, but it also requires booking well in advance—most travelers reserve about 97 days ahead!

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to learn about the Rhône’s unique varietals and terroirs. It suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives and historical towns as much as they enjoy tasting wines. If you’re comfortable with walking and standing during winery visits, you’ll find this manageable.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided experiences, as the expert guide makes navigating the region’s complex wine landscape much easier. While not explicitly tailored for families, the relaxed pace and engaging content make it accessible for most adult travelers.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour? No, lunch is not included but is available at local restaurants during the stop. You should budget around $20-$25 for a meal.

How many wines will I taste? You can expect to taste about 16 to 18 wines during the day, across three wineries.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? The tour involves visiting wineries and walking around vineyards, so it might not be ideal for those with mobility concerns. Check with the provider if needed.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 8 travelers, offering a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if done at least 24 hours in advance.

How early should I book? Most travelers book about 97 days in advance, so it’s best to plan ahead to secure your spot.

Are the guide and tastings available in English? Yes, the guide speaks both English and French, and tastings are conducted with an expert guide.

What’s the best way to get to the meeting point? The tour starts near public transportation at Bellecour Square, a central spot in Lyon.

Is this tour family-friendly? While primarily aimed at adult wine enthusiasts, it doesn’t specifically cater to children or families. It’s best suited for travelers 18 and over.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Lyon and want to learn about the vineyards of the Northern Rhône, this small-group wine tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and educational experience. You’ll get to enjoy breathtaking views, taste a wide selection of local wines, and learn from an expert guide—all without the stress of driving or navigating the region yourself.

While you should budget for lunch and remember that this is a more immersive experience suited for adults, the value for money and quality of the experience make it a top choice for wine lovers eager to deepen their understanding of Rhône wines. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply curious, this tour will leave you with a new appreciation for one of France’s most renowned wine regions.