Beaujolais & Pérouges Wine & Food Tasting Private Tour from Lyon

If you’re seeking an intimate and thoroughly enjoyable way to explore France’s renowned wine regions and charming villages, the Beaujolais & Pérouges Wine & Food Tasting Private Tour from Lyon offers a compelling choice. Priced at $1,048.68 per group for up to three people, this full-day tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, providing a well-balanced combination of wine tasting, sightseeing, and regional cuisine. The tour is led by a professional guide and features private transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, ensuring comfort and a personalized experience. While lunch is not included, the tour makes up for it with a delicious galette tasting in Pérouges and an expert-led wine tasting at a distinguished winery. The tour is highly rated, maintaining a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on 10 reviews, with many praising the knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and relaxed pace.

This tour is ideal for those who want a convenient, all-included day of wine, food, and sightseeing, especially if they prefer a personalized private experience rather than a crowded group. It’s suitable for most travelers, as it includes manageable walking and driving, but it’s best for those with an interest in regional wines and scenic villages. Keep in mind that lunch is on your own, giving flexibility to choose a spot or picnic amid the vineyards.

Key Points

• Private full-day tour from Lyon, lasting about 7.5 hours, designed for up to three guests.
• Includes wine tasting at a renowned winery and an expert guide who shares insights into Beaujolais wines.
• Features a visit to Mont Brouilly for scenic photos and the Château de La Chaize with a wine tasting.
• The tour stops in the capital of Beaujolais, Villefranche-sur-Saone, with free time for lunch.
• Explores the Dombes region, with lakes and poultry farms, culminating in a galette tasting in Pérouges.
• Transport, wine, and food tasting are included, but lunch is not, offering flexibility.
• Highly rated for its relaxed pace, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful scenery.

Scenic Drives Along the Beaujolais Wine Route

The tour begins with a drive along the famous Beaujolais wine route, where stunning vineyard landscapes set a picturesque backdrop. The route highlights some of the region’s most notable vineyards and scenic vistas. It’s a chance to appreciate the rolling hills and lush vines that make Beaujolais famous.

Travelers often stop at Mont Brouilly for a quick photo opportunity, weather permitting. The small, free stop offers impressive views and a chance to enjoy the fresh air. Within the first hours, the group visits Château de La Chaize, a “small Versailles” of Beaujolais. Here, a wines tasting takes place, allowing guests to sample carefully selected wines in a setting with historic charm.

Château de La Chaize: A Historic Wine Estate

The Château de La Chaize is a highlight of the tour, with admission included. This estate offers a glimpse into traditional wine-making processes and a chance to taste some of the area’s best wines. The guide provides context about the estate’s history and significance, enriching the tasting experience. The one-hour stop allows sufficient time to explore the estate gardens, buildings, and to enjoy the wine tasting session.

Exploring Villefranche-sur-Saone and Its Culinary Options

Next, the tour visits Villefranche-sur-Saone, the capital city of Beaujolais. This stop lasts about an hour, giving guests free time to find a place for lunch. While lunch itself is not included, travelers often take this opportunity to enjoy local cafes or picnic options. The town offers charming streets, shops, and a lively ambiance, making it a good spot to relax and soak in local life.

The Dombes Region: Lakes, Poultry Farms, and Countryside Views

The journey continues through the Dombes region, characterized by lakes, wetlands, and poultry farms. This scenic drive contrasts with the vineyards, offering a different perspective on this diverse landscape. The area is known for its natural beauty and agricultural activity, providing a peaceful break from wine tasting.

Pérouges: Medieval Charm and Galette Tasting

The tour concludes in Pérouges, an authentic medieval village renowned for its well-preserved architecture. Here, the group spends about an hour exploring the cobbled streets and historic buildings. The highlight is the regional galette tasting, a local specialty served with drinks. This sweet or savory pastry offers a taste of regional culinary tradition, providing a delightful end to the day.

Convenience and Comfort of Private Transportation

Transportation is arranged in an air-conditioned minivan, ensuring comfort throughout the day. The private tour format means the itinerary is flexible, and guides can tailor the experience based on your interests. Pickup is offered, simplifying logistics, and the tour starts at 9:30 am, fitting neatly into a full day of sightseeing.

The Guide Experience and Local Knowledge

The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides who share insights into local wines, history, and regional life. Reviews highlight guides like Francois and Yann, noting their friendly, personable approach and deep knowledge. They provide explanations that enhance the tasting and sightseeing, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Practical Details and Booking Insights

Most travelers book this tour about 49 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation options. The full refund policy allows cancellations up to 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility if plans change.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour

This private tour appeals most to travelers seeking a relaxed, personalized day exploring French wine, culinary delights, and scenic villages. It is suitable for those interested in regional wines and local food, with manageable walking and driving distances. The tour’s focus on small-group experience ensures personal attention and an intimate atmosphere.

The Sum Up: A Truly Personal Beaujolais Experience

The Beaujolais & Pérouges Wine & Food Tasting Private Tour from Lyon offers a well-structured, intimate exploration of one of France’s most picturesque wine regions. The combination of scenic drives, expert-guided tastings, and regional specialties makes it a compelling choice for wine lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

While lunch is on your own, the stops at Château de La Chaize and Pérouges deliver immersive experiences that showcase the area’s beauty and traditions. The private format and knowledgeable guides create a relaxed, informative atmosphere, perfect for those who prefer a more personal approach to wine and cultural discovery.

This tour is particularly suited for small groups or couples wanting a stress-free, engaging day with an emphasis on local flavor and scenic beauty. It balances wine education, sightseeing, and regional cuisine, making it a memorable way to enjoy Lyon’s surroundings without feeling rushed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking in villages like Pérouges and around château grounds, but most stops are accessible with manageable walking.

Are drinks included in the tour?
Yes, wine tastings at the château and galette with drinks are included in the experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it is a private tour, guides can adapt the pace and focus areas based on your preferences.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is not included, giving you flexibility to choose where and what to eat during the free time in Villefranche-sur-Saone.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time for a full refund.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour is best suited for those with an interest in wine and walking through villages.

This tour offers a rich, personalized journey through the Beaujolais wine region and Pérouges, perfect for those who want to combine wine tasting with cultural exploration in a relaxed setting.