Explore Lyon’s Surroundings with a Full-Day Beaujolais and Pérouges Tour

This full-day tour from Lyon offers a captivating blend of wine tasting, historic sights, and picturesque landscapes. Priced at $173.37 per person, the tour lasts approximately 7 hours 30 minutes, making it ideal for those wanting an immersive experience without overextending the day. The tour departs from Lyon’s central offices at 9:30 am, with a small group limit of 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from a dedicated guide.

The experience is highlighted by visits to notable sites like Mont Brouilly and Château de La Chaize, along with free time in Villefranche-sur-Saône and a stroll through Pérouges. The combination of scenic views, wine tastings, and visits to a medieval village makes this trip most suitable for those interested in French wines, history, and charming towns. While the tour offers a well-organized itinerary, note that lunch is not included, and there are some comments about tight vehicle spaces.

The Departure Point and Transportation Setup

The tour begins at the Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de la Métropole de Lyon located at Pl. Bellecour, 69002 Lyon. This central location is easily accessible by public transportation, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city.

Transportation is provided by air-conditioned minivan, operated by a professional driver-guide. The small group size offers a more intimate experience, with only your party and guide on board. The vehicle’s seating capacity has received some feedback, with one review mentioning the tightness of the space for nine people, which is worth considering if comfort is a priority.

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Visiting Mont Brouilly for Panoramic Views

The first stop on the tour is Mont Brouilly, where a brief 10-minute photo stop offers panoramic views of the Beaujolais landscape. If weather permits, this provides a perfect chance to snap photos of rolling vineyards and scenic farmland.

This stop is free and requires no admission. It serves as an excellent introduction to the region’s natural beauty early in the day. While short, this pause enhances the overall experience by setting the tone for the wine country exploration ahead.

Château de La Chaize: Beaujolais’ “Versailles”

Next, the tour visits Château de La Chaize, often called the “Versailles of Beaujolais”. Here, visitors explore beautiful gardens and the longest cellar in Beaujolais, with an admission included in the tour price.

The highlight is a wine tasting session, where you sample both red and white wines. The guide provides insights into the estate’s heritage and the region’s winemaking traditions, making this stop both educational and enjoyable. Given the one-hour duration, this stop balances sightseeing with tasting comfortably, though some reviews suggest that the guide’s explanations are especially engaging.

Free Time in Villefranche-sur-Saône for Lunch

Villefranche-sur-Saône serves as the regional capital and a central hub for Beaujolais. The tour allocates about an hour here, allowing ample time for a free lunch at your choice of local eateries.

While lunch is not included in the tour fee, this free period offers flexibility to enjoy regional cuisine or relax before heading to the next scenic stop. The town itself features charming streets and a lively atmosphere, perfect for a casual stroll.

Scenic Drive through Dombes with Lakes and Poultry Farms

Following the lunch break, the group travels along the Dombes road, known for its lakes and poultry farms. This part of the journey showcases the diverse landscape surrounding Lyon, characterized by water bodies and rural activity.

While there are no specific stops here, the drive provides beautiful views and a chance to appreciate the region’s natural environment. The scenic route acts as a transition from the wine country to the medieval village of Pérouges.

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Discover Pérouges: Medieval Village Charm

The tour’s final destination is Pérouges, a well-preserved medieval village with cobblestone streets, stone buildings, and a timeless atmosphere. You have about an hour to explore and enjoy the surroundings.

A local 13th-century inn hosts a galette tasting, offering a secret recipe that adds a gourmet touch to the visit. Walking through Pérouges, you’ll see historic architecture and enjoy the quiet charm of this authentic village, making it a highlight for lovers of history and picturesque scenery.

What’s Included in the Tour

The package features a driver-guide who leads the group through each stop, providing commentary along the way. Transportation by air-conditioned minivan stays comfortable throughout the day.

Highlights include wine tastings at Château de La Chaize, snacks like local sugar pie, and non-alcoholic drinks, with alcoholic beverages available. The tour is designed as a shared experience tailored for small groups, ensuring a more personalized journey.

Limitations and Considerations

While the itinerary is well-structured, some reviews mention the vehicle’s tight space for larger groups, which could impact comfort. The lack of included lunch means travelers should plan accordingly, and the timing of the stops might feel rushed for those wanting a more leisurely pace.

Also, the driving duration appears to be substantial, with some comments suggesting it may feel lengthy for those sensitive to long bus rides. Nevertheless, the overall experience balances scenic drives, cultural visits, and tasting opportunities.

The Guide’s Role in the Experience

The guide’s knowledge and friendliness are often praised, with some reviews highlighting Rachel’s graciousness and informative commentary. The guide’s ability to explain the region’s history, wine-making, and local culture adds depth to the tour.

Having a private guide ensures that questions are welcomed, and the pace can be adjusted slightly if needed, making it a more tailored experience for small groups.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This tour suits wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and those who appreciate authentic small towns. It’s especially appealing if you want a personalized experience with professional guidance and a mix of scenic viewing, tasting, and cultural exploration.

However, travelers who prefer more relaxed pacing or more extensive free time in each location might find the schedule somewhat tight. The small group size and guided approach provide a focused, enjoyable day without the hassle of organizing individual visits.

Final Thoughts on the Beaujolais and Pérouges Tour

This 7.5-hour guided tour from Lyon combines wine tastings, historic sights, and beautiful scenery in a well-rounded day trip. The private guide’s expertise and the scenic stops, especially at Château de La Chaize and Pérouges, make it a memorable experience.

While some may find the vehicle space limited and prefer more leisure time, the value for money is clear given the included tastings and guided insights. It’s a good choice for those wanting to sample Beaujolais wines while exploring a medieval village, all within a manageable day from Lyon.

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Beaujolais wine and Perouges village full day shared tour

4.5

“The van was very tight for 9 people and it was a lot of driving. Unfortunately, the gentleman that was sitting in the back row with the 2 of us sme…”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, May 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transport by air-conditioned minivan operated by a driver-guide.

What is the starting point for this tour?
The tour departs from the Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de la Métropole de Lyon at Pl. Bellecour in Lyon.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours 30 minutes.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is free time in Villefranche-sur-Saône for you to choose and enjoy your meal.

What are the main stops during the day?
Stops include Mont Brouilly for views, Château de La Chaize for wine tasting, Villefranche-sur-Saône for lunch, a scenic drive through the Dombes, and Pérouges for exploring the medieval village.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those sensitive to long vehicle rides or who prefer more free time may want to consider the feedback about vehicle space and schedule pacing.

How many people are in each group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 8 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
Yes, alcoholic beverages are available during the wine tasting sessions, but responsibly and in moderation.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of wine tastings at renowned estates, charming Pérouges, and small-group intimacy creates a well-balanced and memorable day trip from Lyon.