Full Day Private Tour of Beaujolais by vintage Land Rover

If you’re dreaming of a day spent cruising through the picturesque countryside of Beaujolais in a classic vintage Land Rover, this tour might just tick all the boxes. While I haven’t personally hopped into this particular experience, the reviews and detailed itinerary paint a pretty enticing picture for anyone keen on combining wine, history, and scenic drives into one unforgettable day.

Two things I particularly appreciate about this tour are its focus on personalized experiences—thanks to the private setting—and the variety of stops, from medieval villages and castles to top-tier vineyards. Plus, the option to include a lunch in the vineyards or a picnic makes it feel like a true taste of local life. That said, a potential consideration is that it’s not suited for those who dislike being driven around in a vintage car, as you’re generally a passenger for the day.

This tour seems ideal if you’re after a relaxed, immersive experience that blends culture, food, and wine in a way that feels both premium and genuine. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a bit of history, stunning views, and exclusive access to family-run wineries. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, high-energy tour, this might not be the best fit—but for lovers of slow, scenic exploration, it looks pretty appealing.

Key Points

• Private, tailor-made experience ensures a personalized day aligned with your interests.
• Expert guides provide insightful anecdotes, making the day both educational and fun.
• The scenic drives in vintage Land Rovers add a nostalgic charm and comfort.
• Visits to multiple crus of Beaujolais allow tastings of different wines and stories behind each.
• The combination of food, wine, and scenery creates a well-rounded, authentic experience.
• Flexible lunch options—either a picnic or in a local restaurant—cater to various tastes.

What to Expect on this Beaujolais Day Tour

This full-day adventure is designed to give you a taste of everything that makes the Beaujolais region special, all from the comfort of a vintage Land Rover. Over about 8 hours, you’ll visit charming villages, historic castles, and renowned vineyards. The tour is private, meaning it’s just your group, and the itinerary can be tweaked to fit your preferences—whether you want more wine tasting, history, or scenic stops.

Starting Point and Length

You’ll be picked up in Lyon either via a premium private transfer or courtesy train tickets, with the tour kicking off at 9:30 am. The drive to Beaujolais is about 35 minutes, giving you an initial glimpse of the countryside before settling into your day of exploration.

Vehicle and Comfort

Traveling in a vintage Land Rover is part of the appeal. The vehicles have a nostalgic charm, and most reviews mention that they’re well-maintained, making for a comfortable ride. Keep in mind, if vintage cars aren’t your thing or you prefer modern comforts, this might not be your ideal choice.

The Itinerary in Detail

1. Fleurie: The Feminine Cru and Quaint Village

Your day begins in Fleurie, known as the most feminine cru of Beaujolais. It’s a small, picturesque village where you’ll find more wine shops than you could possibly visit in a day. The narrow streets, local wines, and charming atmosphere set a relaxing tone. Visitors often note the authenticity of this spot, and it’s a favorite for those seeking a true taste of local life.

2. Saint-Amour-Bellevue: Romantic Vibes and Japanese Vows

Next, you’ll stop in Saint-Amour-Bellevue—arguably the most romantic part of the tour. Here, you’ll see a medieval church and learn why Japanese couples come here to renew their vows. Imagine snapping photos of the ancient stonework with the rolling vineyard backdrop—an idyllic setting that’s also steeped in unique local customs.

3. Chenas: A Lesser-Known Cru with a WWI Tale

Chenas is less crowded but equally charming. It’s known for its castle and a fascinating World War I anecdote, which your guide will share. These stories add depth to the visit, making the experience more than just a quick stop. The village’s quiet beauty is perfect for wandering and soaking in the history.

4. Julienas: Wineries and Old Churches

In Julienas, you’ll visit a church-turned-wine cellar where local wine growers will join you for tastings. The setting, with its centuries-old architecture, makes for a memorable experience. You’ll sample wines and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions directly from the people who produce them.

5. The Famous Beaujolais Hill and Tour de France

This part of the tour covers the most popular cru, renowned for its association with the Tour de France. The hill offers sweeping views of the vineyards, and the connection to one of France’s biggest sporting events adds a lively touch to your day.

6. Domaine de la Madone: Lunch in the Vines

Weather permitting, you’ll enjoy a picnic or barbecue right in the middle of the vineyards. Many reviewers rave about this part—”a delightful countryside lunch,” as one put it. It’s a chance to relax, sip more wine, and take in the stunning scenery amidst good company.

7. Regnie-Durette: Ancient Chapel and Art

A visit to a 12th-century chapel, saved from destruction when frescoes were uncovered behind layers of plaster, offers a peek into the region’s medieval past. It’s a quiet, contemplative stop that adds historical depth to the journey.

8. Salles-Arbuissonnas-en-Beaujolais: The Cluny Abbey

The 5th-century abbey built by the Cluny order is one of the most preserved sites on the tour. It’s often quiet—sometimes you might have the place to yourselves—and offers a tranquil spot to reflect on the day’s sights.

9. Château de Nervers: The Eccentric Castle

Your last stop is a castle built by an eccentric owner, full of stories and character. It’s a fitting ending to a day filled with charm and surprises, with an included visit that adds a touch of fairy-tale magic.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with Aldric and Amelie often singled out for their warmth and local insights. One said, “Aldric was attentive to our tastes and the tour felt very personalized,” which highlights how this experience goes beyond cookie-cutter tours.

Many mention the stunning landscapes and the delightful wine tastings. “We loved the wines of Beaujolais and were able to taste many,” shared a guest who also appreciated the opportunity to meet family-run wineries—something you won’t get on larger, more commercial tours.

Food and lunch also stand out; several reviews describe the picnic or barbecue as “delicious” and “authentic,” with one guest calling it a “delightful countryside lunch.” The scenery, combined with the relaxed pace and engaging stories, makes this tour feel like a real escape into French country life.

Price and Value

At around $568.93 per person, this tour isn’t exactly cheap, but it offers a comprehensive, luxury experience. The private setting means you won’t be stuck with strangers, and the varied stops around the region deliver a mix of history, culture, and wine that’s hard to match.

What you’re really paying for here is quality—expert guides, personalized itinerary, exclusive access to family wineries, and the chance to sit in a vintage Land Rover. For lovers of wine, scenic drives, and intimate experiences, the price feels justified.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who appreciates slow-paced, thoughtful travel—and has a soft spot for wine, history, and stunning views—this experience will suit you perfectly. It’s especially ideal if you’re keen on a private, personalized day that includes tastings, storytelling, and a touch of adventure in vintage style.

However, if you dislike being driven in a vintage car, or prefer more energetic or group-based tours, this might not be your cup of tea. Also, since most stops are around scenic villages and castles, it’s suitable for those comfortable with a bit of walking and exploring.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, your pickup in Lyon is included, either via premium service or courtesy train tickets. The drive to Beaujolais takes about 35 minutes, and all transportation during the day is covered.

How long is the drive each way?
The total ride time is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, split into a 35-minute transfer to the region and additional short drives between stops.

Can I customize the tour?
Since all rides are private and tailor-made, your guide will happily adjust the itinerary to suit your interests—whether you want more wine, history, or scenic stops.

What is included in the lunch?
Lunch options include a picnic or barbecue in the vineyards, and some stops include a visit to a winery with tastings. The lunch is discussed beforehand to match your preferences.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 18 will only be served non-alcoholic beverages, making it suitable for families with kids who want a scenic day out, but alcohol tasting is obviously reserved for adults.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most stops involve walking around villages and historical sites, so consider mobility levels before booking.

What happens in bad weather?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or other weather issues, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, people book about 51 days ahead, so it’s best to plan early if you want to secure your preferred date.

Can I join the tour last minute?
While last-minute bookings are sometimes possible, availability depends on how full the schedule is. Booking in advance is recommended.

Final Thoughts

This private vintage Land Rover tour of Beaujolais offers a lovely mix of scenic driving, wine tasting, and cultural discovery. It’s a great way to see the region’s top spots without feeling rushed, enjoying personalized service in a charming vehicle. Perfect for wine lovers, history buffs, or those simply looking for a relaxed, high-quality day out in the French countryside.

If you value exclusivity, storytelling, and the chance to explore hidden gems, this tour likely won’t disappoint. Just be ready to sit back, soak in the views, and enjoy the slow pace of country life—because sometimes, that’s the best way to experience France’s wine country.