Lyon: Beaujolais Wine Tour with Tastings and Castle Visits

Discover the Charm of Beaujolais on a Private Day Trip from Lyon

This 11-hour tour from Lyon offers an authentic taste of the Beaujolais region, renowned for its picturesque vineyards, charming villages, and world-class wines. Priced to include private group experiences and guided by expert hosts, the tour delivers a well-balanced mix of wine tasting, cultural exploration, and scenic drives. It’s perfect for those who want an immersive day in the countryside with the convenience of pickup from Lyon.

While the duration is long, the itinerary is thoughtfully paced to balance visits, tastings, and leisure time. The tour emphasizes local wine traditions, regional gastronomy, and highlights of medieval architecture. A key strength is the visit to a family-run winery, where in-depth tastings showcase Gamay and other regional varieties. Travelers should be prepared for a full day, but the experience offers a genuine glimpse of Beaujolais’s timeless appeal.

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Key Points

• 11-hour private tour starting from Lyon, with pickup included
• Visit to a family-owned winery with guided tasting of white, red, and cru wines
• Explore the medieval village of Oingt with panoramic views of the hills
• Enjoy a gourmet lunch in either Theizé or Ternand, paired with local wines
• Tour of a castle such as Château de Corcelles or Château de Pizay
• Stops at Villefranche-sur-Saône for a photo break on the way back

From Lyon to the Golden Stones of Oingt

The tour begins in Lyon, where travelers are picked up from their accommodations. After a short drive, the first highlight is the village of Oingt, famous for its honey-colored stone buildings. A guided walk through its medieval streets reveals charming architecture and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills. Visitors can also opt to taste local white wine or juice in a small artisanal shop, adding a personal touch to this historic village.

This stop is ideal for those interested in local craftsmanship and medieval architecture. The scenic setting makes it a picture-perfect introduction to the region’s beauty and history. The village’s peaceful streets make it easy to absorb the ambiance and take plenty of photos.

Visiting a Family-Run Winery for Authentic Tastings

A central part of the day is the visit to a family-run winery, which embodies the regional winemaking tradition. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, visitors enjoy tasting three wines: a white wine, a red, and a cru. The art of winemaking in Beaujolais is explained through anecdotes about the Gamay grape, known as the “grape of joy”.

This visit offers more than just tasting; it’s an educational experience that highlights local winemaking techniques and the importance of family heritage. The winery visit allows guests to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle and gain a deeper understanding of regional wine nuances.

Gourmet Lunch in Theizé or Ternand with Local Specialties

After the winery, the tour continues with a gourmet lunch in either Theizé or Ternand, two charming villages renowned for their local cuisine. The meal features regional dishes such as eggs in meurette, Bresse poultry, and fruit charlotte. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with a Morgon or Fleurie wine to enhance the flavors.

The lunch provides a satisfying break in the day’s activities and showcases the culinary delights of the Beaujolais region. The focus on local ingredients and traditional recipes makes the meal a highlight for food lovers and wine enthusiasts alike.

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Castle Visits: Stepping into Medieval Elegance

Following lunch, the tour includes a visit to a castle such as Château de Corcelles or Château de Pizay. These castles offer a glimpse into the region’s noble past and feature imposing architecture amid scenic surroundings. The guided visit allows guests to explore historic rooms and learn about the castles’ histories.

A visit to these castles adds a layer of cultural depth to the tour and contrasts beautifully with the vineyards and villages. It’s a chance to enjoy some medieval elegance before heading back to Lyon.

Scenic Drive and the Villefranche-sur-Saône Photo Stop

On the return journey, travelers enjoy a scenic drive through the rolling hills of Beaujolais, appreciating the landscape’s natural beauty. A photo stop in Villefranche-sur-Saône allows for capturing the hillside views and historic townscape. The stop lasts around 80 minutes, giving ample time to stretch and photograph.

This part of the tour emphasizes the region’s picturesque setting and provides a relaxed moment before concluding the day. It’s ideal for those who want to take memorable photos and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside.

Practical Details and Travel Comfort

The tour is operated by Cognosimo Tours, rated 4.3 out of 5, reflecting consistent quality. The journey is private, with pickups included, making for a comfortable and personalized experience. The tour is conducted in English and French, with a live guide leading the way.

Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, depending on the season. Bringing a camera is recommended for capturing the stunning views and memorable moments. The tour is flexible in its cancellation policy, allowing full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Why Choose This Beaujolais Tour?

This tour excels in providing a comprehensive experience of Beaujolais, combining wine, culture, and scenery in one day. The focus on family-run wineries and regional cuisine offers authenticity that larger tours may lack. The private group setting ensures a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

However, the full day’s length means travelers should be prepared for a long but rewarding experience. Those interested in wine tasting, medieval architecture, and local gastronomy will find this tour particularly appealing.

Final Thoughts on the Beaujolais Wine and Castle Tour

This 11-hour private excursion from Lyon provides an immersive journey into the Beaujolais region. It highlights local winemaking, scenic villages like Oingt, and historic sites such as castles, all balanced with delicious regional cuisine.

While the day is busy, the carefully curated stops ensure that each moment offers value and insight. The combination of guided tastings, picturesque scenery, and cultural visits makes it a strong choice for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Readers who appreciate authentic experiences and want a personalized tour will find this an excellent way to explore Beaujolais beyond the usual vineyards. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy deliberate pacing and local storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 11 hours, including all stops, tastings, and travel time.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the pickup from Lyon is included, and transportation is provided during the day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language are the guides available in?
Guides are available in English and French.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a gourmet lunch with regional dishes and wine pairings is included.

Are the castle visits guided?
Yes, visits to castles like Château de Corcelles or Château de Pizay are guided.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing depending on the season, and a camera are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The data does not specify age restrictions, but the full-day format and walking involved suggest that children should be prepared for a long day.

What kind of wine is tasted during the tour?
Guests taste white wine, red wine, and cru wine such as Morgon or Fleurie.

Is this tour private or shared?
The tour is conducted in a private group, ensuring a personalized experience.

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