Private Full Day Burgundy Wine Tour by vintage Land Rover (Lyon)

Discover Burgundy’s Secrets: A Full-Day Wine and Heritage Tour in Style

If you’re planning a trip to Lyon and craving a deep dive into Burgundy’s lesser-known charms, this Private Full Day Burgundy Wine Tour by vintage Land Rover promises a rich mix of scenic drives, intimate tastings, and local stories. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a fantastic way to experience this renowned wine region beyond the usual tourist spots.

What really stands out for us is the chance to explore hidden vineyards and secret corners of Burgundy with a knowledgeable local guide. Plus, the vintage Land Rover adds a layer of fun and style that’s hard to match. On the flip side, at just over $660 per person, this isn’t a budget outing—so it’s worth considering if you’re inclined to splurge on a personalized, immersive experience.

This tour seems best suited for those who love wine, enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures, or want a taste of Burgundy’s authentic side. It could be perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager for a day of discovery in a relaxed, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Intimate, private experience tailored to your group’s interests
• Expert local guide with in-depth knowledge of Burgundy’s hidden gems
• Multiple wine tastings at small producers, cooperatives, and vineyards
• Unique stops, from hilltop chapels to medieval ruins and cheese farms
• Scenic drive in a vintage Land Rover that adds charm and fun
• Flexible itinerary that can include special sights like a private cellar or Celtic sites

Why This Tour Stands Out

This full-day Burgundy tour offers a different vibe from the typical wine excursions. Instead of generic vineyards, you’ll journey through backroads with a local insider, uncovering spots most travelers never see. The vintage Land Rover isn’t just transportation; it’s part of the experience, giving a sense of adventure and nostalgia.

What catches our eye is the focus on small-scale producers and unique tastings. Expect at least four stops, with generous pours—minimum four wines per visit. Whether it’s a cooperative, a family-run winery, or a scenic tasting in the vines, the emphasis on quality and authenticity shines through.

The tour’s structure is flexible enough for your interests. If you’re into history, your guide might take you to medieval ruins or a hilltop chapel. If you prefer culinary surprises, there’s a chance to visit a goat cheese farm at a former Celtic site—only sold on-site. It’s a day designed for exploration, flavor, and a bit of storytelling, making it memorable for those who value local connections.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The Start: Mâcon or Lyon

Your day begins either in Lyon, with train tickets provided, or directly in Mâcon if you’re already in Burgundy. The meeting point at La Part-Dieu in Lyon is convenient, with the tour starting at 9:30 AM. This early start allows you to maximize your time exploring Burgundy’s rich landscapes.

First Stop: Wine Tasting in Mâcon (4 hours)

This initial part is the heart of the day, with around four wine tasting stops. The variety of venues—small producers, cooperatives, vines—ensures you’ll get an authentic taste of Burgundy’s wine scene. You’ll sample at least four wines per stop, which is quite generous, and likely enough to appreciate the nuances of different vintages and styles.

The reviews highlight that the guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, making each tasting not just about the wine but also about the story behind it. One reviewer mentioned that the guide was a “walking encyclopedia” who took care of everyone, turning a simple tasting into a true culture.

Exploring Burgundy’s Hidden Corners (2 hours)

After the tastings, your Insider might steer you off the beaten path to lesser-known sights. You could visit a hilltop chapel, medieval ruins, or a goat cheese farm located at a former Cluniac priory and Celtic site. These stops add a layer of local history and culinary delight, making the day more diverse.

One reviewer shared that their guide was excellent at uncovering secret spots, making the experience more personal and memorable. If you love discovering places that aren’t crowded with travelers, this part of the tour will really resonate.

The End of the Day

The tour wraps back at the starting point in Lyon or Mâcon, around 5:30 to 6:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the day’s adventures.

What the Price Gets You

At $662.12 per person, this isn’t a cheap outing, but it offers a lot in terms of personalized service, experienced guiding, and exclusive access to hidden spots. The price includes transportation in a vintage Land Rover, at least four generous tastings, and local insights—factors that significantly enhance the value.

It’s also worth noting that the tour is booked an average of 13 days in advance, so planning ahead ensures you secure your spot, especially in high season.

Real Feedback from Travelers

The reviews praise this experience highly, with one reviewer calling it the “best tour we’ve done in France.” They appreciated the guide’s depth of knowledge and the opportunity to explore quiet, authentic areas like Ainay, away from tourist crowds. The food was also a highlight, making it a full sensory experience.

Another mentioned that they were initially considering a more famous tour (like Bocuse’s), but were glad they chose this one instead, describing it as “an experience as much as a meal,” emphasizing the guided discovery aspect.

The guides seem to excel at making guests feel well taken care of, turning the day into both a learning experience and a relaxing escape.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who appreciates personalized, off-the-beaten-path experiences, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s ideal for wine lovers, history buffs, and curious travelers wanting a full day of exploration without the crowds. Keep in mind, the price suggests you’ll be paying for a premium, intimate experience, not a large coach tour.

If you’re traveling with children or looking for a more casual, less structured outing, this might feel a bit too refined or detailed. It’s best suited for those who genuinely enjoy wine, local history, and unique sights that aren’t on every tourist map.

Final Thoughts

This Burgundy tour offers a rare glimpse into the region’s hidden treasures, both in terms of wine and history. The combination of scenic drives in a vintage Land Rover, expert guiding, and exclusive stops makes it stand out from more generic vineyard visits. The small-group feel ensures a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for meaningful conversations and authentic experiences.

While priced accordingly, many travelers seem to find the experience worth every penny. It’s a day that promises discovery, connection, and a deeper appreciation for Burgundy’s lesser-known sides. Whether you’re a serious wine enthusiast or just someone eager to explore in style, this tour seems to deliver on those promises.

Overall, if you value quality, personalized attention, and off-the-beaten-path adventures, this Burgundy wine tour could be one of the highlights of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers already in Burgundy?
Yes, if you’re already in Burgundy, the guide will meet you directly in Mâcon, making it convenient to join without extra travel.

What does the tour include in terms of transportation?
You’ll be traveling in a vintage Land Rover, which adds charm and fun, and the meeting point is at La Part-Dieu in Lyon or in Mâcon if you’re already nearby.

How many stops are there for wine tasting?
Expect at least four stops, with a mix of small producers, cooperatives, and scenic tastings right in the vines, with generous pours at each.

Can I customize the stops or sights?
The itinerary seems flexible based on your interests; your guide might include visits to a hilltop chapel, medieval ruins, or a cheese farm.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts around 8 hours, starting at 9:30 AM and ending back at the meeting point in the late afternoon.

Is this tour family-friendly?
The information doesn’t specify children, but given the focus on wine tastings and historic sites, it’s more suited to adult guests interested in wine and history.

If you’re after an authentic, stylish way to explore Burgundy’s secret corners and savor its wines, this tour is certainly worth considering. Just be prepared for a full day of discovery, connections, and well-earned indulgence.