Northern Rhône Valley From Lyon Full day

The Northern Rhône Valley From Lyon Full day tour offers an engaging exploration of one of France’s most renowned wine regions. Priced at $184.90 per person, this 6 to 7-hour experience departs from Lyon’s Place Bellecour, making it accessible and convenient for visitors staying in the city. The tour features visits to two wineries in the Hermitage and Croze-Hermitage areas, along with stops in Tain-l’Hermitage, Ampuis, and Condrieu. The group size is limited to 20 people, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere.

One of the key strengths of this tour is the opportunity to taste up to 12 different Côtes du Rhône wines, including famous Hermitage and Croze-Hermitage varieties. Visitors also benefit from expert guidance—both from a driver/guide and a local guide—who explain the nuances of French wine and terroir. The round-trip air-conditioned transport adds comfort, and the flexibility of a mobile ticket makes access straightforward.

While the tour offers many highlights, it’s important to note that lunch is not included, which has been a point of surprise for some participants. The duration can extend to nearly 8 hours if lunch and travel time are factored in, which may be a consideration for those with limited time or lower stamina. The experience suits wine enthusiasts eager to learn about the region’s wines and scenery, though some may wish for more vineyard time or additional tastings.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $184.90 per person and lasts about 6 to 7 hours.
• Wine Tastings: Includes sampling up to 12 wines, with a focus on Côtes du Rhône reds, including Hermitage and Croze-Hermitage.
• Stops and Locations: Visits Tain-l’Hermitage, Ampuis, and Condrieu, showcasing vineyards on steep slopes and aromatic white wines.
• Guides and Transport: Led by professional guides and drivers, with air-conditioned minivans and small group size for a more personal experience.
• Experience Highlights: Tasting wines at local wineries, learning from winemakers, and admiring scenic vineyard landscapes.
• Limitations: Lunch is not included, and some reviews mention the longer duration and limited vineyard visits.

Departure from Lyon’s Place Bellecour

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am from Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de la Métropole de Lyon on Place Bellecour. The starting point is central and easy to find, making it convenient for those staying nearby. The guide then heads south towards Côte-Rôtie vineyards, setting the tone for a scenic day in the Northern Rhône. The group sizes are capped at 16 travelers, preserving a comfortable and engaging atmosphere.

Exploring Tain-l’Hermitage’s Wineries

The first major stop is in Tain-l’Hermitage, where the tour visits a local winery with a reputation for producing Hermitage and Croze-Hermitage wines. Participants taste 5 or 6 varieties in a relaxed setting, with 3cl glasses provided for each tasting. This location offers a chance to see beautiful vine landscapes while sampling some of the region’s best wines. The admission is free, and the tasting lasts about 3 hours.

The guide introduces the wines’ unique qualities, emphasizing the full-bodied reds that make this region famous. The vineyards grow on steep slopes, highlighting the challenging yet rewarding terroir that influences the wine’s character. Visitors are encouraged to savor both the wine and the stunning scenery.

The Charm of Ampuis and Its Vineyards

Next, the tour stops in Ampuis, the birthplace of Côte-Rôtie. This small town is known for its impressive vineyards that stretch on steep slopes, creating a dramatic backdrop. The visit lasts about 1 hour and offers insights into the winemaking traditions of the region. While there is no tasting fee here, the focus is on enjoying the spectacular landscape and understanding the history of Côte-Rôtie.

The steep vineyards and unique terroir are key features at this stop, giving visitors a real sense of the region’s winemaking heritage. The guide explains how the sloped vineyards are cultivated and why this area produces such distinctive wines.

White Wines in Condrieu

The final stop in Condrieu focuses on the aromatic Viognier white wines, which are a specialty of this area. The time spent here is approximately 1 hour, offering a chance to taste delicious white wines famous for their floral and fruity notes. The landscape here is equally captivating, with vineyards on gentler slopes that contrast with earlier stops.

This stop provides a refreshing change from the reds, and offers insight into a different winemaking style. The local guide shares details about the Viognier grape, its aromatic profile, and how the wines are crafted. It’s a highlight for those interested in exploring varietal diversity.

The Scenic Drive and Views Along the Route

Throughout the day, the air-conditioned minivan offers a smooth ride through the scenic Rhône Valley. The route includes stunning vistas of vineyards on steep slopes and picturesque villages. Several reviewers praise the breathtaking views, especially from Hermitage hilltop, where tasting a glass of wine with a panoramic backdrop remains a memorable moment.

The small group size enhances the chance to engage with the guide and enjoy the beautiful scenery without feeling rushed. The timing of stops allows for a relaxed pace, although some note that lunch is not included, which could extend the day if they choose to dine independently.

Wine Tasting Experience at the Wineries

Wine tastings are a core element of this tour, with each location offering a professional guide who explains the wine’s heritage, production process, and tasting notes. The 3cl glasses provide enough wine to appreciate the varietal differences without overindulging.

Guests sample a variety of reds and whites, gaining a broad understanding of the region’s flavors. The Hermitage wines attract particular praise, with some reviews noting the excellent quality and beautiful presentation. The guides are described as knowledgeable and personable, making the tastings educational and enjoyable.

Lunch and Flexibility During the Day

While the tour price doesn’t include lunch, some participants find this to be a highlight, choosing to dine at local restaurants during the stops. A few reviews mention that lunch can take a long time and extends the day’s duration to about 8 hours. It’s worth planning ahead if a timed schedule is important, or arranging lunch separately.

The guide can assist with recommendations, and the restaurant experience often receives praise for local cuisine and delicious dishes. Since the end of the tour is at the starting point, travelers can explore nearby Lyon or continue their day comfortably.

The Role of the Guides and Overall Service

The guides are frequently highlighted as a major positive aspect of this experience. Known for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism, they make the day engaging and informative. Some reviews mention guides like Mathilde, Raphaelle, and Eddy, all praised for their passion and storytelling.

The driver/guide team ensures comfort with air-conditioned transport and smooth logistics. The small group size (max 16) contributes to a more personalized and interactive experience, allowing questions and discussions at each stop.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for weather conditions is advised. Most travelers find the timing and pace suitable for a full-day experience without feeling overly rushed. The booking window averages 44 days in advance, indicating popularity and good availability.

Cancellation policy is generous, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts. The meeting point is easy to access, centrally located in Lyon. Remember, lunch is not included, so plan meals accordingly.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour appeals to wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Côtes du Rhône wines, particularly reds and whites like Hermitage and Viognier. The scenic drives and beautiful vineyard landscapes will delight those interested in regional scenery. It suits small groups seeking a more personalized experience and guides who excel in sharing wine knowledge.

However, those expecting extensive vineyard visits or included meals may find the limited stops and extra planning necessary. The longer duration could be a consideration for visitors with limited stamina or tight schedules.

In Summary: A Scenic and Educational Wine Day in the Rhône

The Northern Rhône Valley From Lyon tour offers a comprehensive half-day of wine tasting, beautiful scenery, and local insight. While lunch is not included, the up to 12 tastings and visits to famous wineries make this a valuable experience for wine lovers. The expert guides and scenic routes add depth and enjoyment to the day.

This tour is ideal for those passionate about wine, eager to explore Hermitage vineyards, and wanting a small-group experience with relaxed pacing. It’s a good choice for visitors who appreciate cultural context coupled with delicious wines and breathtaking views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. Participants can choose to dine at local restaurants during stops.

How many wines are tasted during the tour?
Up to 12 different wines are sampled across visits to two wineries.

What types of wines are featured?
The tour emphasizes Côtes du Rhône reds, including Hermitage and Croze-Hermitage, as well as Viognier white wines from Condrieu.

How long is the tour?
The official duration is 6 to 7 hours, but it can extend to about 8 hours with lunch and travel time.

What is the group size?
The group is limited to 16 travelers, enhancing the experience’s intimacy.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Place Bellecour in Lyon at 9:00 am and returns to the same meeting point.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transport by air-conditioned minivan throughout the day.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers wine tastings, guides, and transport. It does not include lunch or hotel pick-up.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time.

Would this tour suit someone new to wine?
Absolutely. The guides provide educational insights suitable for all levels of wine knowledge.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, but dress appropriately for rain or sun.