Golden stones Beaujolais Wine Tour with Tastings from Lyon

If you’re looking to escape the buzz of Lyon and enjoy a taste of authentic French countryside, this Golden Stones Beaujolais Wine Tour might just be worth considering. The tour promises a bit of everything—stunning village scenery, wine tastings, and a peek into local winemaking traditions—all within about four hours.

What I really like about this experience is how it balances education and relaxation. First, you get to walk through medieval villages like Oingt, renowned for their golden stone architecture, which really gives you that classic French countryside feel. Then, there’s the opportunity to taste three wines and a pastry during a vineyard visit, which is a perfect way to sample regional flavors without feeling rushed. The small-group setting also ensures that you get personal attention from guides who seem genuinely passionate about the area.

One thing to keep in mind is that, as with most short tours, the pace can feel somewhat brisk, especially if you’re a slow drinker or want more time to absorb each stop. Plus, the tour is primarily focused on wine and scenery, so if you’re hoping for a comprehensive food experience, you might find it a little light on meals or additional culinary stops.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed yet informative escape from Lyon, especially if you’re curious about local wine, medieval villages, and scenic landscapes. It’s a solid pick if you enjoy small-group experiences and are okay with a quick, packed itinerary.

Key Points

• Small-group format ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Informative guides help you understand the history, culture, and wine-making process.
• Beautiful village visits like Oingt offer picturesque scenery and photo opportunities.
• Wine tasting at family wineries provides authenticity and insight into local traditions.
• Affordable price point around $115 for a half-day gives good value considering the experience.
• Limited food options mean you might want to eat beforehand or bring snacks.

The Experience: What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de la Métropole de Lyon in the bustling Place Bellecour. From there, a comfortable air-conditioned minivan whisks you out of the city and into the lush Beaujolais countryside. With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’ll get a cozy, friendly vibe, making it easier to ask questions or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

The Village of Oingt

Your first stop is the medieval village of Oingt, often compared to Tuscany for its charming streets and golden stone buildings. According to reviews, this is a highlight—“stunning drive into the country and enjoying the sights, flavours, and tastes along the way,” as one traveler put it. The village is small but packed with character, offering plenty of photo ops and a chance to stroll through cobblestone lanes. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, so it’s enough to soak in the atmosphere and snap some pictures.

Vineyard and Wine Tasting

Next, the tour heads to Saint-Laurent-d’Oingt, where you’re introduced to wine tasting in the midst of vineyards. This is a more casual, laid-back part of the day, allowing you to get closer to the winemaking process. One reviewer describes it as “a quick visit to a family-owned winery, really informative,” which suggests you’ll meet real local producers rather than big commercial estates.

The highlight here is the tasting itself—expect to sample three different wines paired with a pastry, which helps balance flavors and gives you a taste of local craftsmanship. Reviewers mention that the wines are “incredible,” and some even end up buying bottles to take home, a sign of quality.

Scenic Landscape and Photo Opportunities

The tour includes stops where you can admire gorgeous landscape views of the Beaujolais region. One reviewer appreciated the “beautiful scenery” and the chance to see the countryside, which is often what makes this experience memorable. It’s worth bringing your camera for sweeping vistas and quaint rural scenes.

Final Stop at a Family Winery

The last part of the tour is a visit to a winemaker’s estate, where you’ll meet the owner and sample more wines. This is a more relaxed tasting, often accompanied by insights into the winemaking process. According to reviews, the “small family winery” adds authenticity, and the wines are worth the visit—some guests even purchase multiple bottles.

The Overall Pacing and Value

While most reviews are positive, a few mention that the day can feel “too rushed”—especially if you’re keen on savoring each tasting or exploring more leisurely. The total time of about four hours means you’ll cover quite a bit, but don’t expect long, unhurried stops at each location.

In terms of price, at roughly $115 per person, including multiple tastings, transportation, and a guide, the tour offers good value. It’s not a luxury experience, but for a half-day outing with knowledgeable guides and scenic views, it hits the right notes.

Highlights That Stand Out

• The guides receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness. Several reviews mention guides like Françoise or Raphiel as being “very informative, approachable, and enthusiastic,” which really enhances the experience.
• The medieval village of Oingt is consistently described as picturesque and unique, making it a must-see part of the tour.
• The wine quality is a common theme—many guests report that the wines are “incredible,” and some even buy bottles on the spot.
• The small group size means more interaction and less feeling like just another tourist.

Things to Keep in Mind

• The tour is brisk, so if you prefer a slow, unstructured day, this might not be ideal.
• There is no included lunch, so consider eating beforehand or bringing snacks if you get hungry.
• Be aware of the limited scope—the focus is on wine, scenery, and villages, so if you’re after a culinary or historical deep dive, you might want to supplement this experience.
• The pickup point is central and easy to find, but double-check the meeting details to avoid confusion—reviewers share tips about the exact location.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience caters well to wine enthusiasts who want to learn about Beaujolais wines without spending a full day. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic drives, charming villages, and authentic local wineries. If you’re visiting Lyon and want a manageable, well-organized way to explore the countryside, this tour offers a balance of education, scenery, and tastings.

It’s also suited for small groups who enjoy more personal interaction, and it’s a good choice if you’re traveling with friends or a partner. Keep in mind that if you’re traveling with young kids or need a slower pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at a centrally located meeting point in Lyon, specifically at Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de la Métropole de Lyon in Place Bellecour.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, including visits, tastings, and driving time. It’s a compact experience designed to give you a taste of Beaujolais without taking up your whole day.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine tasting, the guide’s friendly and informative style makes it accessible even if you don’t drink alcohol. Plus, the scenery and villages are worth the visit regardless.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers transport by air-conditioned minivan, a professional guide, and food and wine tastings. Bottled water is no longer provided to support eco-friendly practices, but you can refill your reusable bottle.

Are the stops at the villages short?
Yes, typically around 20-30 minutes per village, enough to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s a quick but scenic visit.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Yes, many guests do. The last stop often involves visiting a family-owned winery where you can purchase bottles directly from the producer.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s suitable for adults; if you’re traveling with children, keep in mind the focus on wine tasting. The small size and scenic stops make it a pleasant outing, but not specifically geared toward children.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides speak English as well as French when needed, making it accessible for international travelers.

Final Thoughts

The Golden Stones Beaujolais Wine Tour is a solid choice for those wanting a taste of French countryside, good wine, and charming villages all in a manageable half-day trip. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge elevate the experience, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a window into local culture and tradition.

If you’re keen to learn about Beaujolais wines, take some beautiful photos, and enjoy a scenic drive out of Lyon, this tour offers a nice balance of all those elements. It’s especially good if you prefer small-group tours over large bus loads, and if you’re happy with a somewhat structured day that emphasizes quality over quantity.

Overall, it’s a well-reviewed, reputable experience that offers decent value for the price. Just be prepared for a quick pace and consider your own preferences if you want a more relaxed or food-focused day.

Happy wine touring!