Half-Day Guided Tour with Tasting of Beaujolais Wines

If you’re heading to Lyon and have even a modest interest in wine, this guided tour of Beaujolais might just be the highlight of your trip. Offering a relaxed yet immersive experience, it’s designed for those who want to get a taste of authentic French wine culture without spending a full day on the road. We’ve gathered the details from many happy travelers to give you a clear picture of what to expect—and whether it’s worth your time and money.

What we really love about this experience is the personal touch—meeting small family-owned wineries and exploring beautiful villages built with yellow stone. The guide, Justine Poncet, isn’t just knowledgeable but also friendly, making the whole journey feel like catching up with an old friend. Plus, the combination of scenic views, delicious wines, and local snacks adds up to a genuinely enjoyable half-day escape.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour is quite focused on wine tasting and scenery. If you’re traveling with kids, or if you’re looking for a more adventurous or activity-driven day, this might not tick all your boxes. It’s best suited for adults who appreciate good wine, charming villages, and a relaxed pace. Overall, if a taste of Beaujolais with expert storytelling appeals to you, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: With a maximum of 8 travelers, the experience feels intimate and personalized.
• Expert Guidance: Justine Poncet’s knowledge shines, making the region’s history and wines come alive.
• Authentic Visit: Meetings with local winemakers and family-run estates offer a genuine taste of Beaujolais.
• Scenic Stops: Enjoy stunning views of vineyards and villages built with distinctive yellow stone.
• Tastings Galore: Around 8-10 wines, including white and red, are sampled across two different estates.
• All-Inclusive: Price covers tastings, guide, transportation, and snacks—no hidden fees.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The tour kicks off in Lyon at the Statue of Saint Exupéry on Place Bellecour, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a comfortable Mercedes vehicle. From there, the journey is thoughtfully planned to make the most of your half-day.

First, you’ll drive through the picturesque Beaujolais villages, crossing rolling hills and vineyards on your way to your first stop. The scenery alone is worth the trip—vine-covered hillsides and charming stone houses that seem frozen in time. We loved the way the landscape transitions from open fields to more intimate village streets.

Your first tasting is in Oingt, a tiny, historical village known for its well-preserved architecture and stunning views. Here, you’ll sample 4 or 5 wines at a local estate, getting a good sense of the regional styles. The reviews note that the wineries are welcoming and authentic, with many owners speaking French—adding to the charm.

Next, you’ll visit Le Bois-d’Oingt, another picturesque village, for a second round of tastings. This stop also lasts about an hour and ten minutes, allowing plenty of time to ask questions and savor the wines. The hosts here are praised for their warmth and generosity, providing a genuine local experience.

Finally, the tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Lyon, wrapping up around 4 hours and 15 minutes after it started. Throughout, the guide shares insights into the Gamay and Chardonnay grape varieties, and explains the significance of AOP Beaujolais designation, making the tastings not just enjoyable but educational.

What Makes the Stops Special

The visits to family-owned estates are a huge plus—these are the kind of places that often don’t see many travelers and pride themselves on authentic production methods and heartfelt hospitality. Several reviews mention how the owners are welcoming and eager to share their stories, which makes each tasting more meaningful.

The scenery at each stop is consistently praised. Travelers rave about the views of vineyards on rolling hills and the character of villages like Oingt and Le Bois-d’Oingt, built with the region’s distinctive yellow stone. These sights give you a genuine feel for the region’s beauty and heritage.

Tasting Experience and Food

You’ll enjoy around 8 to 10 wines over the course of the day, including both reds and whites. The reds are based on Gamay grapes, the emblem of Beaujolais, while the whites feature Chardonnay. The wines are described as delicious and varied, with some reviewers highlighting the exceptional quality of the white wines and the local reds.

Accompanying the tastings are light snacks and charcuterie, which nicely complement the wines without overwhelming your palate. It’s a good way to cleanse your palate and truly appreciate each sip.

The Transportation and Group Size

The luxury vehicle, a Mercedes, ensures comfort during the drive and allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery without worry. The small group size (up to 8 people) keeps things intimate, enabling better interaction with your guide and fellow travelers.

Price and Value

At $117.40 per person, this tour is quite reasonable considering the inclusions—multiple tastings, a knowledgeable guide, private visits to family wineries, snacks, and transportation. Many reviewers feel it offers good value, especially given the personalized experience and the quality of the vineyards visited.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is that this tour is not designed for children or non-drinkers, as alcohol consumption is part of the experience. Also, if you’re after a day full of activities beyond wine tasting and scenic views, you might find this a bit gentle. The focus remains on wine and landscape, which is perfect for relaxing and learning but not for those craving adventure or a more physically active experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adults who enjoy wine and want to learn more about Beaujolais in a relaxed, friendly setting. It’s perfect if you appreciate authentic local culture, charming villages, and small-scale wineries. Travelers who enjoy beautiful scenery and informative guides will find plenty to love here.

It’s a great choice for couples, friends, or small groups who want a manageable and meaningful taste of the region. If you’re a wine enthusiast eager to understand regional differences and meet passionate producers, this tour will meet your expectations.

If you’re traveling with big groups or family members with very different interests, you might want to consider whether the focus on wine and scenery suits everyone. But for most wine lovers, this experience hits the right notes.

FAQs About the Beaujolais Wine Tour

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
No, since tastings are a core part of the experience and only those over 18 can participate in wine sampling.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, including driving, stops, tastings, and sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
Tastings of around 8-10 wines, guidance from a knowledgeable local guide, visits to two wineries, snacks, and transportation in a luxury Mercedes vehicle.

Are the wineries family-owned?
Yes, many of the estates are small, family-run operations, which adds charm and authenticity to the experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, with full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the starting point is near public transportation, making it convenient to reach in Lyon.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample both white and red wines, primarily based on Gamay and Chardonnay grapes, from different estates.

Will I learn about the wine-making process?
Absolutely—your guide shares insights about the region, the grape varieties, and what makes Beaujolais wines special.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
No, since alcohol tasting is involved, it’s strictly for adults.

Will I get to meet the winemakers?
Yes, the visits include meetings with members of the estates, giving a personal touch to the experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a laid-back, authentic glimpse into the world of Beaujolais wines, this small-group tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, educational insight, and tasty wines. With a friendly guide and visits to charming villages and family-run wineries, it’s suited for those who want to deepen their understanding of regional wines without the fuss of a long day.

While it’s not the place to find boisterous activities or family-friendly options, it’s a great pick for lovers of wine, history, and picturesque French countryside. The reviews consistently praise the guiding, the wine quality, and the overall relaxed vibe, making it clear that this experience hits most travelers’ desires for a memorable half-day in Beaujolais.

Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned enthusiast, this tour can enrich your appreciation of the region and leave you with pleasant memories—and maybe a few new favorite wines to take home.