From Lyon : Beaujolais – Pérouges Full Day Shared Trip

Explore Beaujolais and Pérouges in a Full Day Tour from Lyon

This 7.5-hour shared trip from Lyon offers a delightful blend of wine, history, and authentic French charm for $174 per person. Led by a professional guide, the tour takes you through two emblematic regions: the Beaujolais wine country and Dombes, known for its ponds and scenic landscapes. Expect visits to a grand castle, a medieval village, and a chance to sample local wines and specialties.

Perfect for those who appreciate cultural sights and gourmet experiences, this tour balances structured visits with free time, ensuring a relaxed yet enriching day. Keep in mind, the group size is limited to 8 participants, which enhances the personal touch and allows for attentive guiding.

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Key Points

• Includes visits to Château de la Chaize and Pérouges, with entrance fees covered.
• Wine tasting at a renowned Beaujolais estate, plus a chance to meet a winemaker.
• Exploration of the medieval village Pérouges, with its cobblestone streets and historic ambiance.
• Tastings of the famous “galette” at a 13th-century inn.
• Round-trip transport in an air-conditioned minivan with a professional guide.
• Small group experience, limited to 8 people for more personalized attention.

From Lyon to the Château de la Chaize: Beaujolais’ Versailles

The tour kicks off with a scenic drive north from Lyon into the heart of Beaujolais. The first major stop is Château de la Chaize, often called the “Versailles of Beaujolais” due to its impressive architecture and expansive gardens. Visitors get to explore the longest cellar in Beaujolais and enjoy a wine tasting featuring both red and white wines produced at the estate.

This castle provides a glimpse into the region’s heritage and its noble architecture, setting a luxurious tone for the day. The visit is structured to give an overview of the estate’s history and its significance in the wine world.

Panoramic Views from Mont Brouilly

After visiting Château de la Chaize, the tour includes a stop at Mont Brouilly for panoramic views across the Beaujolais landscape. The elevated vantage point showcases the vineyards that produce the region’s famous wines, offering great photo opportunities and a sense of the area’s natural beauty.

While there’s no detailed mention of additional activities at Mont Brouilly, the scenery alone makes it a worthwhile pause. The views help visitors appreciate the scale and layout of the vineyards that have made Beaujolais renowned.

Tasting Wines with a Local Winemaker

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to a local winemaker, where guests meet in person to taste the wines directly from the estate. This face-to-face interaction offers insight into the winemaking process and a chance to savor the flavors that define Beaujolais.

The guide ensures that all tastings are included, and guests are reminded to enjoy alcohol responsibly, especially since alcohol consumption is legally limited to those over 18 in France. This experience often receives praise for its authenticity and the opportunity to connect with the region’s wine craftsmanship.

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Lunch Break in Beaujolais

Following the castle visits and wine tastings, the tour includes a free lunch break in Beaujolais. While the itinerary doesn’t specify a restaurant choice, this time allows for personal exploration or a quick bite before heading to Pérouges. Some guests may want to bring snacks or plan ahead if they have specific dietary needs, as the tour does not include lunch.

Discovering Pérouges: A Medieval Village

The second major stop is the medieval village of Pérouges, one of France’s most picturesque towns. Stepping into Pérouges feels like walking through a living postcard, with its cobblestone streets, stone houses, and historic charm. Visitors often spend time wandering through the narrow lanes, admiring the well-preserved architecture, and soaking in the old-world atmosphere.

A highlight is a visit to a 13th-century inn, where guests can taste the famous “galette”, a local pastry with a secret recipe. This sweet treat adds a delicious taste of the region’s culinary traditions.

The Charm of Pérouges’ Cobblestone Streets

Walking through Pérouges reveals a town frozen in time, perfect for photos and leisurely exploration. The square in front of the inn provides a great spot for photos, and the overall ambiance makes it a favorite for those seeking authentic medieval scenery. The tour provides ample time to explore at leisure, making this stop a memorable part of the day.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from the Tourist Office in front of the main entrance at Bellecour square in Lyon. It’s recommended to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a smooth start. The journey is conducted in an air-conditioned minivan, with a professional driver-guide leading the way.

With limited to 8 participants, the small group format enhances interaction and ensures personalized guidance throughout the day.

What’s Included and What to Remember

The price of $174 per person covers all entries and tastings, including visits to Château de la Chaize, Pérouges, and the wine tasting with a winemaker. The tour also includes transportation and guide service, making it a convenient option for those wanting a seamless experience.

Not included are additional tastings, lunch, and bottled water (the tour encourages bringing a reusable bottle). The package is designed for flexibility—guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later for added convenience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This experience suits those interested in wine, history, and medieval towns. The combination of castle visits, wine tastings, and Pérouges’ charm appeals to travelers seeking a balanced, intimate day trip from Lyon. While not designed for wheelchair users, the tour is accessible for most able-bodied guests with comfortable shoes, given the cobblestone streets and walking involved.

Final Thoughts on the Beaujolais and Pérouges Full Day Trip

This well-priced, carefully curated tour offers a satisfying mix of sights, tastes, and stories. The inclusion of a professional guide and all major entries and tastings makes it convenient and informative. The small group size ensures a relaxed experience, and the stops at Château de la Chaize and Pérouges provide a taste of both luxury and authenticity.

While the lunch is free-form, the highlight remains the wine tastings and historic village strolls. If you value personalized service, beautiful scenery, and regional flavors, this tour from Lyon brings a genuine taste of the Beaujolais region and its medieval treasure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $174 per person.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from the Tourist Office in front of the main entrance at Bellecour square in Lyon.

Is this a small group tour?
Yes, it is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included; there is a free lunch break in Beaujolais.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include Château de la Chaize, panoramic views from Mont Brouilly, wine tasting with a winemaker, and Pérouges medieval village with galette tasting.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is in an air-conditioned minivan, included in the price.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It is not suitable for wheelchair users and does not mention provisions for strollers or assistance dogs beyond pets allowed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a reusable water bottle are recommended.

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