Full Day Private Vintage Land Rover Tour of Beaujolais & Burgundy

Discover the Best of Beaujolais & Burgundy with a Private Vintage Land Rover Tour

If you’re considering a day exploring France’s famous wine regions, this Full Day Private Vintage Land Rover Tour of Beaujolais & Burgundy caught our eye. Although we haven’t done it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a personalized, engaging experience that combines excellent wine tastings with authentic local sights.

What really stands out are the exclusive winery visits and the chance to meet passionate vintners, along with the chance to enjoy breathtaking views amid the vineyards. Plus, the personal touch of a knowledgeable guide makes this feel like a day spent with a friend rather than a typical tour bus.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite comprehensive and involves some walking and outdoor time, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity and long hours on the road.

Overall, if you’re after an intimate, flexible, and well-curated wine adventure, especially if you love discovering hidden gems away from crowded tourist spots, this tour should definitely be on your list.

Key Points

• Customized Experience: The tour is tailored to your interests, with options for private tastings, cultural stops, and scenic picnics.
• Exclusive Access: Visit private wineries and meet passionate local growers, including a former winemaker turned druid.
• Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy beautiful views of vineyards, historic sites, and scenic hills, weather permitting.
• In-depth Stories and Insight: Guided by insiders who share stories about the regions, wines, and local traditions.
• Flexible stops: From hiking a prehistoric hill to exploring medieval châteaux, the itinerary offers variety.
• All-Inclusive Tasting Experience: Sampling excellent crus and enjoying local cold cuts and cheese alongside your wine.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour promises to be a full day of exploration, blending wine, history, and local culture in a way that feels personal and genuine. Starting at Gare de Mâcon at 9:30 am, you’ll be whisked away in a vintage Land Rover, which alone sets a relaxed, nostalgic tone. The vehicle’s charm and WiFi access give you a comfy, stylish way to travel across several regions.

Exploring Mâconnais: The White Wine Heartland

Your first stops focus on the white wines of Mâconnais. The day begins with a visit to Vergisson, a town renowned for its white wines. Depending on your preferences, the guide might take you straight to a winery or simply open a bottle in the vineyards, allowing you to absorb the scenery and aroma. This sets the tone for an authentic experience—relaxed, unpretentious, and deeply rooted in the landscape.

Next, you’ll visit La Roche de Solutre, a small but famous hill with a fascinating history. Prehistoric hunters once used it to hunt and later, it became a symbol of the French Resistance. If you’re up for a gentle climb, the walk to the top offers sweeping views and a sense of connection to history. Even if you skip the hike, the site itself provides plenty of photo opportunities and a story to tell.

Another highlight is Solutre-Pouilly, a picture-perfect village known for its charm. Here, you might enjoy a professional wine tasting or visit a traditional producer to learn about the region’s winemaking techniques. The small town vibes and local wines make this a favorite for many visitors.

Finally, your morning concludes in Leynes, where a young, innovative wine domain offers a fresh take on traditional methods. Tasting wines from this new generation of growers provides insight into how local traditions evolve with modern techniques.

Transition to Beaujolais: Historic Sites & Vineyards

Midday marks the shift into Beaujolais, starting with Saint-Amour-Bellevue, the first cru you’ll visit. This is also where you’ll have lunch—either at a local restaurant or, weather permitting, a scenic picnic amidst the vineyards. The choice to include a picnic option adds a personal touch, letting you relax and soak up the atmosphere.

After lunch, your guide will take you to the village’s church, where you’ll learn about the area’s history and significance—traveling through time with stories that make the experience more meaningful.

Next, you’ll explore Chenas, another cru famous for its rich reds. Visiting the local cooperative or a castle turned tasting room provides a behind-the-scenes look at how these wines are made and enjoyed. The authenticity of these small producers, often frequented by locals, is a real treat.

Château du Moulin-à-Vent is a standout, with its 15th-century windmill and historic reputation as the “lord of Beaujolais wines.” The story of its once-competing wines with Romanée-Conti adds a layer of intrigue and prestige.

The Feminine and Rebellious Crus

The final stops are Fleurie and Juliénas—two crus with distinct personalities. Fleurie, deemed the most feminine of the Beaujolais crus, is famous for its delicate wines and charming scenery. Depending on your mood, you might enjoy a tasting at a cooperative bar or a relaxing pause on the vineyard hill with a view and a glass from the local vineyard.

Juliénas, on the other hand, offers a bit of a rebellious vibe. The visit to a former church building serving only Juliénas wine at a very affordable price makes it feel like a true local secret—an authentic end to your day.

What Keeps This Tour Special

Throughout the day, your guide shares stories about the regions, highlighting both the history and the personalities behind each wine. This insider knowledge elevates the experience beyond just tasting. Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and expertise, making the entire journey feel personalized and engaging.

The transport itself, a vintage Land Rover with WiFi, ensures a comfortable and stylish ride. The small group size means you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized attention.

Analyzing the Price and What You Get

At $566.66 per person, this tour might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the private transportation, multiple exclusive winery visits, tastings of some of the region’s best crus, and the personalized approach, it offers good value. The inclusion of local snacks and the flexibility to choose picnic or restaurant lunch add to the overall experience.

This isn’t a mass-market tour; it’s designed for those who truly want a curated, relaxed, and in-depth look at the regions. The reviews echo this sentiment, with one guest calling it “the most favorite” of many country tours they’ve experienced.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a wine enthusiast eager to go beyond the typical tourist spots, this tour offers a chance to meet passionate growers and taste exceptional, often hard-to-find wines. It’s ideal for travelers craving a mix of scenic beauty, local culture, and insider stories.

Those who enjoy learning about history and tradition, or simply want a flexible, personalized experience, will find this tour rewarding. It’s also suitable for those who like a leisurely pace, as there’s plenty of time for tasting, sightseeing, and casual exploration.

While not explicitly aimed at families, active travelers and adults comfortable with walking and outdoor activities will enjoy the day most.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves some walking, including hikes to sites like La Roche de Solutre, it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

Can I choose the lunch option?
Yes, you can opt for a local restaurant or enjoy a picnic in the vineyards if the weather permits. The guide will accommodate these preferences.

Is the price inclusive of tastings?
Yes, all wine tastings and locally produced snacks are included in the price.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a camera for sightseeing. Since snacks and water are provided, you won’t need to carry much else.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 68 days in advance, indicating good demand among travelers seeking a personalized experience.

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, making it ideal for a tailored day.

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

Wrapping It Up

If you’re after an authentic, relaxed day exploring the wine regions of Beaujolais and Burgundy with a knowledgeable guide, this private vintage Land Rover tour delivers. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate personalized experiences, enjoy tasting a variety of crus, and want to see the regions through local eyes.

The combination of stunning scenery, historical sites, and exclusive tastings makes it a standout choice for wine lovers who want to go beyond the mainstream. It’s a full, immersive day that balances culture, history, and, of course, exceptional wines—all with a friendly, intimate vibe.

While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the personalized touch, insider access, and scenic route make it worth considering for a special trip to France. Just remember to book well in advance and be prepared for a day full of discovery and delicious wines.

Happy travels, and I hope this helps you decide if this memorable wine journey is right for your trip!