From Lyon: Golden Stones Beaujolais Wine Tasting Tour

Explore Southern Beaujolais with the From Lyon: Golden Stones Beaujolais Wine Tasting Tour, priced at $116 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes. This small-group tour, limited to 8 participants, departs from Bellecour Square in Lyon, offering an authentic and relaxed experience of this renowned wine region. The tour features visits to picturesque villages, private vineyards, and family-owned wineries, complemented by wine tastings and traditional snacks.

This adventure stands out for its expert guides, who are passionate about sharing the story of Beaujolais, and its focus on regional wine and culture. The tour is suitable for those interested in wine, scenic landscapes, and historic villages, though it is not designed to accommodate wheelchair users or baby strollers. Expect a well-paced, informative journey with plenty of opportunities to savor wines and explore charming locales.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $116 and runs for about 258 minutes.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personal atmosphere.
• Includes Key Tastings: Enjoy wine tastings paired with local pastries, plus a traditional Lyon mâchon with cold meats and cheeses.
• Visit Historic Villages: Stroll through Oingt, one of France’s most beautiful villages, dating back to the 12th century.
• Meet Winemakers: Gain insights directly from local winemakers at family-owned wineries.
• Scenic Landscapes: Drive through rolling hills and golden-stone villages, often called the “Tuscany of France.”

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Starting Point in Lyon and Transport Details

This tour departs from in front of the Lyon tourist office at Bellecour Square, a central and easy-to-find location. Travelers meet their professional driver-guide and hop into an air-conditioned minivan, ready for a scenic drive into the Beaujolais region. The shared tour ensures a cozy group setting, ideal for those seeking a more intimate experience.

The transportation is included, and the tour does not cover hotel pickup or drop-off. Travelers should arrive prepared with comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for walking through villages and vineyards.

Discovering the Beaujolais Region’s Charm

The tour explores Southern Beaujolais, often called the “Tuscany of France,” recognized for its rolling hills and picturesque villages. The landscape is marked by vineyards that produce the famous Beaujolais Nouveau wine and golden-stone architecture that gives the region its warm glow. The guide provides an introduction to the region’s winemaking traditions and the unique terroir that influences the wines.

The scenic drive offers a chance to take in the breathtaking views of the countryside, with plenty of opportunities to photograph the landscape. The emphasis on local culture and architecture enriches the experience, making it more than just a wine tasting.

Visiting the Medieval Village of Oingt

One of the main highlights is the stop in Oingt, a 12th-century village listed among France’s Most Beautiful Villages. The medieval streets and squares are perfect for wandering at leisure. This village is known for its authentic golden-stone buildings and medieval charm, providing a glimpse into France’s historic past.

The free time in Oingt allows visitors to explore local shops, artisan stores, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The scenery and architecture here are often praised for their timeless beauty.

Wine Tasting at the Vineyards and Wineries

The core of the tour is the wine tasting experience. Travelers visit scenic vineyards where they can sample two distinct wines, often paired with a local pastry to enhance the tasting notes. The guide explains the terroir’s influence, helping to understand what makes each wine special.

A visit to a family-owned winery offers an up-close look at winemaking traditions. The friendly winemaker shares insights into their craft, and guests can enjoy a tasting session with wines directly from the producer. The red, white, and rosé wines offered here are highly regarded for their quality and authenticity.

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The Lyon Mâchon and Regional Snacks

The tour concludes with a Traditional Lyon mâchon, featuring local cold meats and cheeses. This shared tasting complements the wine experience and offers a taste of regional culinary traditions. The snacks, including pastries, are carefully selected to pair well with the wines and enhance the overall experience.

This culinary element adds a gourmet touch to the tour, making it a satisfying and flavorful way to end the day.

Guide Expertise and Tour Pacing

The guides are praised for their knowledgeability and friendliness. Many reviews highlight their passion for wine and ability to share stories about the region’s history and winemaking. The guides ensure the pace remains comfortable, balancing cultural exploration with relaxing tastings.

The small group setting fosters a more personal connection with the guides and other participants, making the experience more engaging and enjoyable.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

While the tour involves walking around villages and vineyards, it is not suited for wheelchair users or those with non-folding wheelchairs. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some standing or walking.

The weather can vary, so dressing appropriately is recommended. The tour does not permit pets, baby strollers, or drinks in the vehicle, to maintain a comfortable and safe environment.

Value and Overall Experience

At $116 per person, the tour offers a rich experience including multiple tastings, guided visits, scenic drives, and local culinary delights. The reviews consistently praise the quality of wines, expert guides, and beautiful scenery.

This tour is particularly well-suited for wine enthusiasts, those interested in local culture, and visitors seeking a leisurely, authentic day outside Lyon. The small group format ensures a personal touch, making it a memorable way to explore Beaujolais without the hassle of planning or driving.

The Sum Up: An Authentic Taste of Beaujolais from Lyon

The Golden Stones Beaujolais Wine Tasting Tour combines scenic landscapes, historic villages, and expertly curated wine tastings in a comfortable 4-hour format. With a friendly guide, visitors gain deep insight into the region’s winemaking traditions and enjoy the chance to taste regional wines in their natural setting.

While the tour is not accessible for all mobility needs and lacks hotel pickup, its intimate size and focus on local culture make it ideal for those seeking an authentic, relaxed experience just outside Lyon. The value for money and positive reviews support its reputation as a top choice for exploring Beaujolais in style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers wine tastings, transportation in a comfortable minivan, a professional guide, snacks as part of a traditional Lyon mâchon, and pastries.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 258 minutes, or about 4 hours and 15 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
Guests meet in front of the Lyon tourist office at Bellecour Square for the departure.

Is lunch included?
No, the tour does not include lunch, but it features wine tastings and a mâchon of local cold meats and cheeses.

Can children join the tour?
The tour is not suitable for non-folding wheelchairs or pets, and children under 18 should drink responsibly as per French law.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for walking through villages and vineyards.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby