Private Full Day Wine and Food Tour from Lyon in Beaujolais

A Detailed Look at the Private Full Day Wine and Food Tour from Lyon in Beaujolais

If you’re planning a trip to Lyon and want to explore the nearby Beaujolais wine region, this private full-day tour offers an immersive and personal experience. With a mix of scenic drives, tastings at family-run wineries, and visits to iconic sites like Château du Moulin-à-Vent, it promises to be a well-rounded introduction to this lesser-known part of France. Led by knowledgeable guides in vintage Land Rovers, the tour is designed to cater to your interests while providing a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

What stands out most is the customizable nature of this experience—your itinerary can be adjusted based on your preferences and weather conditions. We also love how it combines wine tasting with cultural stops, giving a richer view of the region’s history and landscape. However, the price of around $560 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering that lunch is not included—so it’s worth evaluating whether the value matches your expectations. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy wine, want a private, relaxed day, and appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Key Points

• Personalized itinerary tailored to your interests and weather conditions
• Expert guides and local knowledge enhance the experience
• Authentic wine tastings at family-run domaines and historic sites
• Beautiful scenic drives along back roads and vineyards
• Inclusive amenities like snacks, bottled water, WiFi, and non-alcoholic options
• Flexible options such as picnic lunches and cultural stops

An In-Depth Review of the Beaujolais Private Wine and Food Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown: What Makes It Special?

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated journey through the Mâconnais and Beaujolais regions, with a focus on discovering hidden gems rather than just hitting the biggest wineries. Starting in Belleville-sur-Saône, you’ll be picked up and whisked away in a vintage Land Rover, instantly setting a laid-back yet stylish tone.

The first stop is Vergisson, a charming spot famous for its white wines. Visitors can choose between visiting a winery or simply enjoying a bottle in the vineyards. This flexibility means you can tailor the experience—whether you’re keen on learning about wine production or just soaking in the views. The fact that admission here is free helps keep the experience accessible.

Next, you’ll visit La Roche de Solutre, an iconic site with prehistorical significance. Not only does it offer a glimpse into ancient history, but it also provides a chance for a gentle walk to the top, with stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. It’s a highlight that blends culture and nature, with reviews praising the easy 30-minute hike.

Moving into the Solutre-Pouilly village, you’ll enjoy a professional wine tasting, which many reviewers say is a highlight. It’s a chance to taste wines directly from passionate producers—something that many travelers find enhances their appreciation of French wine culture.

The final stop in the Mâconnais region is Leynes, a family-run domaine representing the new generation of winegrowers. Here, you’ll taste wines crafted with innovative techniques and philosophies, providing insight into the changing face of local winemaking.

From Vineyards to Cru Places in Beaujolais

After the Mâconnais stops, the journey continues into Beaujolais proper, beginning with Saint-Amour-Bellevue, where lunch is served either at a local restaurant or via a picnic among the vineyards. Many reviews note the quality of local produce—cold cuts, cheeses, and wines—that make this a true taste of regional flavors. The relaxed setting and the chance to dine outdoors amid the vines are a definite plus.

Post-lunch, you’ll visit the village’s church and learn about its history, adding a cultural layer to your day. This is a quiet, reflective moment, often appreciated by travelers who enjoy understanding the historical context of the places they visit.

Further stops include Chénas, where a wine cooperative and a castle-turned-tasting-room offer opportunities to sample robust reds, and Château du Moulin-à-Vent, famously called the “lord of Beaujolais wines.” The story of Château Moulin-à-Vent competing with Romanée-Conti in the 19th century adds a fascinating layer to the visit. The windmill onsite makes for a picturesque photo opportunity.

Fleurie, renowned as the most feminine cru, offers a choice: either relax at a local cooperative/bar or ascend to a scenic viewpoint for a picnic and tasting from the vineyard itself. Reviewers gush about the view and the chance to sip wine directly from the vineyard—something that elevates the experience beyond typical tastings.

Finally, Juliénas, the rebellious cru, features a tasting room once owned by the Catholic church, where local wines are served at very affordable prices—less than $2 per glass. It’s a lively, authentic spot where you might even catch local growers gossiping over their glasses.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Guides like Alex, who’s praised for his friendliness and expertise, make a meaningful difference. Reviewers often mention the knowledgeable guides as a highlight, noting how they enrich the experience with stories and insights. The fact that the tour is private means you can go at your own pace and ask questions freely, which many find makes the day more engaging.

The wine tastings themselves get high marks for quality—wines are carefully selected, and many stops include tastings with professionals or family winemakers who are passionate about their craft. People also appreciate the inclusion of local snacks—cheeses and cold cuts—that pair beautifully with the wines.

The vintage Land Rovers add an element of fun and authenticity, making the journey between stops as memorable as the destinations. The scenic drives through vineyards, countryside, and historic sites provide plenty of photo opportunities and a genuine sense of place.

A Few Caveats

While the experience is generally highly praised, some reviews note that lunch is not included, so budget accordingly if you’re hungry after a morning of tastings. The tour’s price might seem steep for some, especially considering that the main attractions are tastings and scenic stops. However, many feel the personalized, off-the-beaten-path nature and the quality of guide interactions justify the cost.

Also, the itinerary is flexible, but depending on weather and group preferences, some stops might be shortened or omitted, which could impact the overall experience if you have specific sites in mind.

Transportation, Timing, and Overall Experience

Transportation is via private Land Rover, which not only provides a comfortable ride but also adds to the adventure. The tour lasts around 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am, with the end point back at the meeting location. The timing allows for a relaxed pace, giving you plenty of time at each stop, especially with the option to extend certain visits, like the picnic or scenic viewpoints.

Group size is limited to your private party, making conversations personalized and allowing guides to tailor the experience. WiFi on board is a small but appreciated touch, helping you share your adventures in real-time or look up additional info.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers who want a more authentic and less commercial experience, and those who enjoy a touch of history and culture. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples wanting a private outing, with the flexibility to customize the day.

The Value Proposition: Is It Worth It?

At around $560 per person, this experience is an investment—yet it offers much more than just wine tastings. The personalized itinerary, expert guides, and the chance to visit family-run wineries and historical sites provide a level of intimacy and authenticity that larger, more commercial tours often lack.

If you’re someone who appreciates good wine, loves discovering new places in a relaxed atmosphere, and values knowledgeable guides who can tell stories beyond just the wine label, this tour offers significant value. The inclusion of snacks, water, and WiFi helps round out the day, making it both comfortable and convenient.

However, keep in mind the price doesn’t include lunch, so plan accordingly. If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to compare this with other options; but if you’re after a truly personal, immersive experience with high-quality tastings, this tour hits the mark.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This private tour is ideal for wine lovers seeking a deeper understanding of Beaujolais, couples or small groups wanting a tailored experience, and travelers who prefer authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures. It suits those who enjoy a mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and wine tastings without the crowds or commercial feel of larger tours.

It’s also great for anyone wanting the flexibility to customize their day and enjoy a relaxed pace, with the added fun of vintage vehicle rides and insider stories from passionate guides.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusively for your group, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, wine tastings at multiple wineries, snacks (cold cuts and cheese), bottled water, and WiFi on board.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You can choose to dine at a local restaurant or enjoy a picnic in the vineyards, depending on your preference and weather.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the itinerary is an example, guides tailor the day to your interests and the weather, making it highly adaptable.

What about alcohol options?
Wine tastings are included, and for those who prefer, grape juice is available as a non-alcoholic alternative.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point around late afternoon.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Since it’s a private tour, it’s only limited by your group size—perfect for couples, families, or small groups.

Final Thoughts

This private full-day tour from Lyon into Beaujolais offers a balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and authentic wine tastings. The flexibility to customize your experience, combined with expert guides and a relaxed vibe, makes it a standout choice for those eager to dive into the region’s lesser-known charms. While it’s a pricier option, the personalized approach and access to family wineries, historic sites, and scenic viewpoints deliver significant value—especially for travelers who prioritize quality over quantity.

If you’re after an intimate, authentic journey that combines wine, history, and beautiful landscapes, this tour is well worth considering. It’s best suited for curious, adventurous types who want a meaningful connection to Beaujolais—and to the people behind the wines.

Note: Always check the latest details and confirm any specific preferences or requirements directly with the tour provider before booking to ensure the perfect fit for your trip.