Golden stones Beaujolais Wine Tour with Tastings from Lyon

Key Points

• Affordable and well-reviewed: Priced at $115.12 per person, with a high 4.5/5 rating from 124 reviews.
• Compact half-day experience: Lasts about 4 hours, ideal for travelers with limited time seeking a taste of wine country.
• Visit three key sites: Explore Oingt, known for its medieval charm, enjoy wine tasting in Saint-Laurent-d’Oingt, and visit a family-run winery in Beaujolais.
• Expert guide and small group: Led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide in a small group of up to 8 people for personalized service.
• Includes food and wine tastings: Tastes three wines, a pastry, plus local food pairings at the vineyard.
• Convenient pickup: Begins at Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de la Métropole de Lyon in Place Bellecour.

Discovering the Beaujolais Region from Lyon

This Golden Stones Beaujolais Wine Tour offers a half-day escape from Lyon’s city buzz for those interested in wine, scenic villages, and local culture. For around $115, you get approximately 4 hours of guided exploration with three wine tastings, food pairings, and visits to historic sites. The tour is highly appreciated, with a 4.5-star rating from 124 reviews, and 94% of participants recommend it.

The tour’s strength lies in its well-organized itinerary, starting with a visit to the charming medieval village of Oingt, famous for its golden stones and picturesque streets. The tour then moves to Saint-Laurent-d’Oingt, where a wine tasting in the vineyards introduces you to local wines, before ending at a family-owned winery for a more in-depth tasting experience.

While this is a shared tour with a maximum of 8 travelers, it benefits from a professional and friendly guide who shares insights about the area’s culture, wine production, and history. The air-conditioned minivan ensures comfort during the short drives between stops.

From the Old Town to the Medieval Village of Oingt

The first stop at Oingt showcases a medieval village often compared to Tuscany for its quaint streets and golden stone buildings. This free admission stop lasts about 30 minutes and provides fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to stroll through the charming cobblestone streets. The village’s medieval monuments make it a highlight for history and architecture lovers.

Traveling into the Beaujolais countryside, the tour offers views of gorgeous landscapes that stretch across the region. These vistas are a favorite part of the experience, providing a scenic backdrop for the day’s tastings and sightseeing.

Wine Tasting in Saint-Laurent-d’Oingt

The second stop takes you to Saint-Laurent-d’Oingt, where wine tasting is introduced amidst vines and scenic surroundings. This 20-minute visit is free of charge and focuses on familiarizing visitors with local wines and the vineyard environment. It’s a relaxed way to begin understanding the region’s wine culture.

This stop emphasizes the landscape of the Beaujolais area, highlighting the rolling hills and vineyard layout that define the region. It’s an ideal moment to take photos and get a sense of the local environment.

Visiting a Family Winery in Beaujolais

The core of the tour is a visit to a small, family-run winery, lasting about 1 hour. Guests meet the winemaker, learn about the wine production process, and sample several estate wines. This personalized experience offers insight into traditional winemaking techniques and the qualities of Beaujolais wines.

The wine tastings at the winery are complemented by local food pairings, such as cheese and charcuterie, making for a sensory experience that enhances appreciation of the wines. The informative guide makes sure visitors understand the distinctive characteristics of each wine.

Tour Inclusions and Environmental Considerations

The tour includes food and wine tastings, a professional guide, and transport by air-conditioned minivan. The shared tour ensures an intimate experience, and pickup from a central location simplifies logistics.

Notably, bottled water is not provided in line with eco-friendly policies; travelers are encouraged to refill their reusable bottles. Alcohol consumption is restricted for guests under 18, with a reminder to drink responsibly.

Logistics and Meeting Point

The tour starts at the Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de la Métropole de Lyon in Place Bellecour, a convenient spot near public transportation. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making it easy for travelers to plan their day.

The tour is designed for most travelers and maintains a small group size for better interaction and personalized service. Since it’s booked on average 35 days in advance, it’s advisable to reserve early, especially during peak seasons.

Pacing, Duration, and Physical Requirements

With a duration of approximately 4 hours, the tour balances sightseeing and tasting comfortably. The stops involve short walks, such as exploring Oingt’s streets and vineyard views, making it suitable for most physical levels. However, those with mobility issues should consider the cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces.

The timing allows for a relaxed pace at each stop, though some reviews mention it can feel somewhat rushed—especially if visiting multiple sites. The informative guides and scenic stops tend to outweigh this minor concern.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its combination of scenic landscapes, historical villages, and authentic wine tasting. The small group setting fosters a more personal connection, and the knowledgeable guide ensures you learn about the region’s wine and culture without feeling overwhelmed.

The visit to a family-owned winery offers an authentic look into local winemaking traditions, and the beautiful village of Oingt adds a charming, historical dimension. The value for money is solid, especially considering the included tastings and food.

Limitations and Considerations

Some reviews note that wine warmth at the first stop can be a minor issue, and the short duration of tastings may leave enthusiasts wanting more. Plus, the rushed pace could be a concern for those wanting extensive wine education or more in-depth visits.

The tour does not include lunch, so travelers seeking a full meal should plan accordingly. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, and the meeting point is centrally located, making it easy to join on foot or via public transport.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits those new to wine tasting, history enthusiasts, and scenery lovers looking for a half-day trip from Lyon. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, guided experience with small-group intimacy. If you seek more extensive tastings or full-day excursions, you might find this tour slightly limited.

Final Thoughts on the Golden Stones Beaujolais Wine Tour

This guided half-day offers a well-rounded glimpse into Beaujolais wine country, combining scenic views, the history of a medieval village, and authentic wine experiences. The professional guides, small group size, and inclusive tastings make it a great option for travelers wanting a personalized, educational escapade.

While some might find it rushed or light on tastings, the charm of Oingt and the connection with a family winery compensate well. This tour provides good value and memorable sights, especially for those seeking a taste of French countryside in a manageable timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transport is provided by air-conditioned minivan from the central meeting point in Lyon to the various stops.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including visits and tastings at three sites.

Are food and wine tastings included?
Yes, food pairings and three wine tastings are included, along with local specialties at the vineyard.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de la Métropole de Lyon in Place Bellecour.

Can children join this tour?
While most travelers can participate, alcohol consumption is for guests 18 and older. The physical activity involved is minimal.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Bottled water is not provided; travelers are encouraged to refill their reusable bottles to support environmental efforts.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 35 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed, with specific stops, but the small group setting allows for personal interaction and questions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for exploring Oingt’s cobblestone streets and vineyard areas.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan for your own meal or snacks after the tour.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic landscapes, historical villages, and authentic family winery visits makes this a compelling choice for a short yet immersive experience outside Lyon.