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

Explore Burgundy’s Hidden Vintners in a Vintage Land Rover

The Private Full Day Burgundy Wine Tour by Insiders Experience offers an intimate, personalized look into the lesser-known corners of Southern Burgundy. For $662.12 per person, this 8-hour adventure combines scenic drives, unique wine tastings, and visits to private cellars, all led by a passionate local guide. The tour departs from Lyon, with the option of train tickets or private transfer, making it convenient for travelers already in the region or starting fresh in Lyon.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a deeper, more authentic wine experience beyond the usual tourist spots. It emphasizes discovery: scenic backroads, small producers, and exclusive visits that showcase Burgundy’s rich wine culture. The price reflects the private, bespoke nature of the experience, and the tour is booked on average 13 days in advance, ensuring availability for most planning timelines.

While the tour features premium tastings and personal guidance, it does involve some walking and vehicle travel across varied terrain, making it suitable for most physically able visitors. The focus on local secrets and exclusive cellar visits makes it particularly appealing for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Burgundy’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with only your group participating.
• At least four wine tastings including small wineries, cooperatives, and vines-side tastings.
• Visits to a private wine cellar hosted by a former winemaker turned druid.
• Scenic backroad drives through lesser-known Burgundy regions.
• Optional stops include hilltop chapels, medieval ruins, or a goat cheese farm at a former Cluniac priory.
• Tour departs from Lyon at 9:30 am with flexible transfer options.

Scenic Departure from Lyon to Burgundy’s Hidden Corners

The tour begins in Lyon’s La Part-Dieu at 9:30 am with a choice of train tickets or private transfer, depending on the selected option. This flexible start ensures a smooth journey into Burgundy, avoiding the hassle of planning transport independently. The vintage Land Rover adds a sense of adventure and style, setting a relaxed yet explorative tone for the day.

Once in Burgundy, the vehicle’s scenic backroads take you away from the busy tourist trails. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, with excellent views and the comfort of a private vehicle. The emphasis on lesser-known spots means you’ll travel through areas that most visitors miss, making every moment feel special.

At Least Four Generous Wine Tasting Stops

Throughout the day, the guide leads you to at least four stops for wine sampling. These include small independent wineries, cooperatives, and vineyards where tastings occur right in the vines. Each stop promises a minimum of four wines, offering a rich tasting experience and insight into Burgundy’s diverse wine styles.

Expect your guide to introduce you to a variety of wines, from classic Burgundy reds and whites to boutique offerings. This variety helps you appreciate the region’s complexity and the different approaches of local producers. The generous tastings ensure a true appreciation of each wine’s character.

Exclusive Visit to a Private Wine Cellar

One of the tour’s standout features is the visit to Philippe’s private wine cellar, belonging to a former winemaker turned druid. His cellar holds a collection of rare and carefully curated wines, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Burgundy’s wine storage and aging process. This exclusive visit provides an intimate connection to the region’s winemaking heritage.

The private cellar experience is a highlight that sets this tour apart. It allows for a deeper understanding of Burgundy’s wine craftsmanship and the passion that goes into each bottle. The tour is ideal for those interested in the stories behind the wines they taste.

Discovering Burgundy’s Cultural and Historical Sites

Depending on your interests, the guide may lead you to explore local landmarks such as hilltop chapels, medieval ruins, or even a goat cheese farm nestled within a former Cluniac priory and Celtic site. These stops add a layer of cultural discovery, connecting wine with Burgundy’s rich history and traditional food crafts.

The goat cheese farm offers a taste of regional cuisine, with cheese sold exclusively on-site. This stop appeals to visitors curious about local food production or looking to add a culinary dimension to their wine journey. The optional visits are tailored to your preferences, ensuring a personalized experience.

Flexibility and Comfort with Meeting Points

The tour begins at La Part-Dieu in Lyon and ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward. The near public transportation access and service animals allowed policies ease planning for various travelers. The private nature of the tour ensures exclusive attention and flexibility throughout the day.

This setup offers convenience for those staying in Lyon or nearby, and the private transfer options help streamline the journey into Burgundy, avoiding crowded group departures.

The Expert Guide and Personal Connection

Guests repeatedly praise the guide’s knowledge and personal touch. One review highlights the guide as a “walking encyclopedia” who takes care of all needs, making the experience informative and welcoming. The guide’s expertise enhances the experience, providing stories, context, and recommendations that deepen the connection to Burgundy’s wine scene.

The tour’s intimate scale fosters a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer a more personal approach to travel. The guide’s enthusiasm and local insights turn each stop into a meaningful discovery.

Booking, Cancellation, and Practical Tips

This private tour can be booked 13 days in advance and offers free cancellation, allowing flexibility if plans change. Travelers should note that most participants can join, with service animals permitted. The 8-hour duration ensures ample time for tasting, exploring, and relaxing without feeling rushed.

It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes for walking around vineyards and sites, and bring a camera to capture the scenic landscapes and historic sites. The tour’s pacing allows for a mix of tasting, sightseeing, and conversation, making it suitable for most visitors interested in a comprehensive Burgundy experience.

Comparing This Tour to Other Burgundy Experiences

While there are other wine tours available, this private, land-rover-based experience stands out for its personalized approach and focus on hidden gems. It doubles as a cultural exploration, with optional stops surprising even seasoned Burgundy fans. The inclusion of a private cellar visit and tastings at smaller producers make it particularly rich in authentic encounters.

The tour’s price reflects its premium, tailored nature, offering value through exclusivity and expert guidance. It suits wine lovers who value a curated, intimate day with a mix of tasting, sightseeing, and storytelling.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice for Wine Enthusiasts

Guests who appreciate knowledgeable guides and unique access will find this tour especially rewarding. The combination of scenic drives, diverse tastings, and special visits offers a well-rounded Burgundy experience. The flexible, private format ensures that each day can be tailored to your interests, whether that’s wine, history, or local food.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at Burgundy’s wine culture, away from the crowds and typical tourist routes. The unique stops and exclusive cellar visit create a memorable, immersive day in one of France’s most celebrated wine regions.

Burgundy Wine Tour in a Vintage Land Rover: Final Thoughts

This private Burgundy wine tour offers a high-quality, intimate experience perfect for wine aficionados and curious travelers alike. From scenic backroads to private cellars, everything is designed to deepen your appreciation for Burgundy’s wine and culture.

While the tour demands a full day, the pacing feels relaxed, and the focus on personalized attention ensures a memorable journey. The guide’s expertise, combined with exclusive visits, makes this tour a standout option for exploring Burgundy’s lesser-known treasures.

If you’re after a tailored wine adventure that combines scenic beauty, authentic tastings, and cultural discovery, this tour delivers on all fronts. Just remember to book early, as the popularity and limited availability make it a sought-after experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $662.12 per person?
The tour covers guide services, four or more wine tastings, and transportation in a vintage Land Rover. Optional stops like the cheese farm or historical sites are part of the experience, but any personal purchases or additional meals are extra.

How long is the tour?
The full day lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning to Lyon’s La Part-Dieu. It includes multiple stops for tastings and sightseeing.

Can I choose to meet directly in Burgundy?
Yes, if already in Burgundy, the tour can meet you directly in Mâcon, avoiding the Lyon departure.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The data suggests most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions are not detailed. It’s best to contact the provider for family suitability.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in a vintage Land Rover is part of the tour, with options for train tickets or private transfer from Lyon.

What stops are included during the day?
Stops include vinery visits, a private cellar, a hilltop chapel or medieval ruins, and a goat cheese farm if chosen.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking and vehicle travel over uneven terrain, so those with mobility concerns should check with the provider beforehand.

What makes this tour different from other Burgundy wine experiences?
Its private, personalized nature, exclusive private cellar visit, and focus on hidden regions and small producers distinguish it from larger, more generic tours.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is available through the provider, Insiders Experience, with most bookings made 13 days in advance. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.