Full Day Private Tour of Beaujolais by vintage Land Rover

Discover the Charm of Beaujolais on a Private Vintage Land Rover Tour

This full-day private tour of Beaujolais offers an engaging way to experience the region’s stunning landscapes, historic sites, and exquisite wines. Priced at $568.93 per person, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours and includes exclusive transportation in a vintage Land Rover. It departs from Gare de Belleville-sur-Saône in Lyon at 9:30 am, with flexible pickup options, including a premium pickup service or courtesy train tickets.

Designed for those who appreciate personalized experiences, the tour covers most of Beaujolais’ 10 crus (top wine regions), with stops at charming villages, castles, and local producers. A highlight is the opportunity to taste wines directly in the vineyards, paired with regional cold cuts and cheese, amid scenic views. The tour is best suited for visitors who enjoy food, wine, history, and architecture, and are comfortable being driven in a vintage vehicle. The experience is private, ensuring a tailor-made journey that adapts to your interests.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience in a vintage Land Rover
• Visits most of the 10 crus of Beaujolais, including Fleurie, Saint-Amour, and Julienas
• Includes a scenic vineyard lunch, either in a local restaurant or a picnic in the vines
• Stops at medieval castles, churches, and historical sites such as Château de Nervers and Salles-Arbuissonnas-en-Beaujolais
• Tasting opportunities at private vineyards, with local cheese and cold cuts
• Flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences and interests

Starting Point and Departure Details in Lyon

The adventure begins at Gare de Belleville-sur-Saône in Lyon, where a courtesy pickup or premium transfer can be arranged. The tour kicks off precisely at 9:30 am, and return is to the same meeting point. The transportation involves approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes of driving, allowing plenty of time to explore the region’s highlights comfortably. The private nature of the tour guarantees exclusivity, with just your group on the journey.

Exploring the Village of Fleurie: The Feminine Crus

The first stop is Fleurie, renowned as the most feminine cru of Beaujolais. This quaint village is famous for its numerous wine shops, offering an ideal introduction to the region’s wine culture. With just 10 minutes at this stop, visitors can wander through charming streets, soak in the traditional architecture, and perhaps pick up a bottle or two to enjoy later.

Romantic Stop at Saint-Amour-Bellevue

Next, the tour visits Saint-Amour-Bellevue, noted as the most romantic stop. Here, a medieval church provides a picturesque setting, and visitors learn why Japanese couples frequently travel to this village to renew their vows. This 20-minute stop offers a chance to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take photos of the scenic surroundings.

Discovering Lesser-Known Cru: Chenas and Its WWI Anecdote

The Lesser-known cru of Chenas features a castle with a fascinating World War I story. Visitors spend about 10 minutes exploring this site, gaining insight into regional history. The castle’s connection to the war adds a layer of interest beyond its visual appeal, making it a memorable part of the day.

Julienas: Wineries and Historic Churches

In Julienas, a popular cru, the tour includes a visit to an old church that has been transformed into a wine cellar. Here, guests enjoy a 20-minute tasting session with local wine growers. This stop emphasizes the region’s rich winemaking traditions and offers a chance to sample wines directly from passionate producers.

The Hill of Beaujolais and Tour de France

A panoramic view of Famous Hill is on the agenda, an area celebrated for hosting the Tour de France regularly. While the stop itself is brief, it provides an opportunity to admire the picturesque landscape that makes Beaujolais so distinctive. Often, the region’s rolling vineyards and scenic hills leave a lasting impression.

Lunch in the Vineyards at Domaine de la Madone

The highlight of the midday is a scenic lunch at Domaine de la Madone. Weather permitting, the meal involves a barbecue or picnic set amid the vines, with admission included. This 1 hour and 30 minutes meal offers a relaxed setting to enjoy regional dishes alongside local wines, often paired with cheeses and cold cuts, with a view of the vineyard.

Visiting the 12th-century Regnie-Durette Chapel

The tour continues to Regnie-Durette, home to a 12th-century chapel saved from destruction in the 1980s when paintings were discovered on its walls. Visitors spend about 20 minutes exploring this historic site, gaining insights into regional religious architecture and preservation efforts.

The Cluny-influenced Abbey in Salles-Arbuissonnas

A significant highlight is the 5th-century abbey of Salles-Arbuissonnas-en-Beaujolais, built by the Cluny order. This beautifully preserved religious site is often quiet and free from crowds, allowing for an immersive experience over 45 minutes. The abbey exemplifies medieval architecture and the influence of the Cluny order across Europe.

Château de Nervers: An Eccentric Castle

The final stop is Château de Nervers, a castle with a unique story linked to its eccentric owner. With a 10-minute visit, guests can appreciate its architecture and hear amusing anecdotes about its history, concluding the day with a sense of regional character and history.

Flexible, Tailor-Made Itinerary

This tour’s biggest strength is its private, tailor-made format. The guides will happily adjust stops based on your interests, whether focusing more on food, wine, or history. The informal, personal approach shines through reviews praising guides for their attentiveness and local knowledge, making each experience feel customized.

Wine Tasting and Regional Flavors

Throughout the day, stops at vineyards are paired with wine tastings, often with local cheese and cold cuts. The tasting sessions are set in scenic locations, providing a genuine flavor of Beaujolais’ family-run wineries. The inclusion of local producers and small wineries ensures authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Practical Considerations and Comfort

While the vintage Land Rover offers a stylish way to explore, it’s worth noting that people sensitive to older vehicles might find the ride less comfortable. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including children (who will only be served non-alcoholic drinks). The courtesy train tickets or premium pickup from Lyon make logistics straightforward, and the trip’s pace allows for plenty of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

The Experience in Review: What Sets It Apart

This full-day Beaujolais tour excels in combining history, scenery, food, and wine within a private, flexible format. The knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops foster an authentic, personalized experience. Guests consistently praise the delicious lunch, beautiful views, and insightful stories shared at each site.

The cost of $568.93 might be considered premium, but the exclusive access, private transport, and intimate setting justify the price for those seeking a relaxed and customized exploration of Beaujolais. The tour’s 5-star reviews reflect high satisfaction, especially with guides like Aldric and Amelie, who are noted for their warmth and local expertise.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This private experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and food lovers seeking an authentic taste of Beaujolais. It is especially suited for those who enjoy scenic drives in vintage vehicles and prefer a flexible itinerary that can be adapted to personal interests. While not recommended for those averse to driving or older vehicles, it offers a memorable, immersive day for most open-minded travelers.

Final Thoughts on the Beaujolais Land Rover Excursion

The Full Day Private Tour of Beaujolais in vintage Land Rovers offers a well-rounded, intimate look at the region’s wine, history, and landscapes. Its private, customizable nature and delicious regional lunch set it apart from more generic group tours. If you value personalized service, authentic local insights, and an authentic vintage adventure, this tour delivers on all fronts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point in Lyon.

What is included in the price?
The price includes a private guide, vintage Land Rover transportation, visits to various villages and castles, wine tastings, and a scenic lunch in the vineyards.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome. They will only be served non-alcoholic beverages during tastings.

What is the maximum group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. The guides are happy to adjust stops and focus areas based on your interests.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor visits and weather conditions is recommended. Since lunch may be outdoors, bring sun protection or rain gear if needed.

Is there a dress code?
There is no strict dress code, but comfortable shoes for walking and exploring are advised.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you are offered a reschedule or full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Advance booking is recommended, typically 51 days in advance. Contact details are available through the provider for reservations.

Can I join the tour from Lyon instead of Lyon meeting point?
Yes, a premium pick-up in Lyon is available, or courtesy train tickets are provided to facilitate your journey.

This private Beaujolais tour combines luxury, discovery, and personalization, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore France’s renowned wine region in style.