Ampuis offers a rich mix of wine-focused experiences that showcase its stunning landscapes and centuries-old winemaking traditions. Unlike many wine regions, Ampuis combines breathtaking scenery with intimate, authentic tours that put you face-to-face with local artisans. One standout is the Ampuis: Côte-Rôtie in Full View From Slopes to Cellar Tour, which is perfect if you want a deep dive into the land and techniques behind Côte-Rôtie wines. We also love the Hiking & Wine between Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu, especially for active travelers craving a blend of outdoor adventure and wine tasting. Lastly, the Visit to Vineyards of Côte-Rôtie with Aperitif offers a relaxed, social experience with scenic views and local snacks.
Below, you’ll find detailed insights on each of these top tours. Whether you’re after an immersive vineyard walk, a scenic hike combined with tastings, or a convivial wine and food experience, this list will help you choose the right adventure in Ampuis.
1. Ampuis: Côte-Rôtie in Full View From Slopes to Cellar Tour
At number one on our list is the Ampuis: Côte-Rôtie in Full View From Slopes to Cellar Tour. This 3-hour experience costs around $53 per person and offers a well-rounded immersion into the visual beauty, technical processes, and human touch behind Côte-Rôtie wines. The tour begins with a guided walk through the hillsides, where you’ll learn how the land shapes the grapes and the wines. Then, you’ll meet a local winemaker who shares insights into their craft, blending history with modern techniques.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authenticity—no staged performances, just real land and artisans. The winery visits are tailored to seasonal availability, which keeps things fresh and personal. The guide’s storytelling, combined with close-up encounters with the land and wine producers, makes for a memorable experience. The small group size enhances conversation and allows for tailored questions, making it ideal for travelers who want a genuine connection to the region.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a well-paced, intimate tour that combines landscape, land, and local craftsmanship, this is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for those who want to understand the vineyard’s terrain and meet the people behind the wine.
2. Hiking & Wine between Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu
For about $41 per person, the Hiking & Wine between Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu offers a 2.5-hour journey into the natural beauty of the Rhône Valley. This guided hike takes you through terraced vineyards with impressive views of the Rhône River, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy being active and want to combine outdoor scenery with wine tasting. The hike is broken into manageable sections, with a break for a wine tasting that features local wines, paired with panoramic vistas.
What sets this experience apart is its focus on terroir and heritage. As you walk through the vineyards, your guide explains how soil, climate, and slope influence the wine’s character. The scenic view of the Rhône, combined with tasting local wines during the walk, makes this a well-rounded adventure for nature lovers and oenophiles alike. The route ends at a scenic viewpoint, giving you a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to reflect on the landscape and flavors.
Bottom Line: This tour is an excellent pick for active travelers who want a taste of both outdoor beauty and local wine culture. It’s especially good if you value the connection between landscape and wine.
3. Visit to Vineyards of Côte-Rôtie with Aperitif
At 2.5 hours and $53 per person, the Visit to Vineyards of Côte-Rôtie with Aperitif provides a relaxed, social experience in the hills of Ampuis. Starting at scenic viewpoints, you’ll learn about the 2000-year-old winemaking traditions that shape the region. This tour uses your own vehicle for transportation, giving you flexibility and a more personalized pace.
The highlight is the opportunity to taste wines from several nearby estates, paired with local charcuterie, cheeses, vegetables, and regional foods. It’s a convivial way to understand the history, techniques, and artisanship of northern Rhône winemaking. Small groups allow for in-depth conversations, and the scenic backdrop of Côte-Rôtie or Condrieu makes the tasting even more special.
What makes this experience particularly appealing is its informal vibe—you get to relax with fellow wine enthusiasts while savoring regional flavors. The combination of scenic views and tasting makes it a versatile option for those looking for a social, food-focused outing.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a flexible, intimate tasting experience with a focus on local foods and wines, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those seeking a leisurely introduction to the region’s wine culture.
How to Choose
When deciding between these wine experiences, consider your priorities—are you after a deep dive into vineyard land and winemaking techniques (Full View Tour), an active outdoor adventure with tastings (Hiking & Wine), or a relaxed day sampling regional foods and wines (Vineyard Visit & Aperitif)? Budget-wise, all are quite comparable, but your choice might depend on whether you prefer walking, guided land discussions, or dining style socializing.
For those who want a more comprehensive understanding of the land and winemaking, the first tour offers a structured, in-depth look. If you’re more active and want to enjoy scenic views on your own feet, the hike provides a perfect balance of nature and taste. Meanwhile, the third option is best if you’re looking for a relaxed, convivial afternoon with a focus on regional flavors and social connection.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and experience.
Final Thoughts
Ampuis truly has something for every wine lover — whether you want to walk the vineyards, hike with a view, or sit back with local snacks and wine. For those seeking an immersive land and wine experience, the full view tour is hard to beat. If outdoor activity with tastings sounds appealing, the hiking adventure offers a memorable mix. And for a laid-back, food-and-wriendly outing, the vineyard visit with aperitif hits the mark.
No matter which tour you pick, early booking will ensure you secure a spot. Ampuis’s charm lies in its land, its wines, and the people dedicated to making both special. Choose the experience that matches your interests, and enjoy a memorable taste of Rhône Valley’s finest.
