Beaujolais Wine Tour – Tastings & Gourmet Picnic Lunch

If you’re looking for a way to explore one of France’s most picturesque wine regions without the fuss of planning every detail, this Beaujolais Wine Tour offers an authentic, relaxed experience. With visits to family-owned wineries, a scenic drive through charming villages, and a delightful picnic featuring local ingredients, it’s a perfect day for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.

What truly makes this tour special is its small-group feel—limiting to a maximum of 8 guests—ensuring personalized attention and a genuine connection with the local winemakers. Plus, the reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and quality wines.

One thing to consider is the timing: at around 8 hours, it’s a full-day outing, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a leisurely pace. If you’re after a more independent or fast-paced experience, this might not be your best fit. But for anyone wanting to truly unwind and soak up the beauty of rural France with good wine in hand, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and an intimate atmosphere
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary on the wines and region
• Charming villages and scenic views make for memorable photo opportunities
• Tastings at family-owned wineries showcase authentic, small-batch wines
• Gourmet picnic lunch with local ingredients adds a delicious, relaxed touch
• Convenient Lyon pickup simplifies logistics and maximizes your day

An Authentic Day in the Beaujolais: Your Itinerary Breakdown

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of the Beaujolais region, without feeling rushed. It starts in Lyon, a vibrant city filled with life and history, conveniently serving as the jumping-off point. From there, you’ll head into the countryside, where the scenery is as much a part of the experience as the wines.

Meet in Lyon: The Starting Point

The adventure begins at the centrally located Place des Terreaux. The meeting process is smooth—organizers coordinate via messages beforehand to ensure everyone knows where to gather. The early start allows for a full day of exploring, and the small group size keeps it intimate and relaxed.

Stop 1: Montmelas-Saint-Sorlin

Your first stop offers a scenic apéro in the vineyards, which is a delightful way to ease into the day. You’ll enjoy local wines, cheeses, and saucisson with views of a medieval castle—an Instagram-worthy moment. This stop is free, but it sets a lovely tone for the day, combining natural beauty with delicious local flavors.

Stop 2: Denice – Family Winery Experience

Next, you’ll visit a family-owned winery in Denice for an individual tasting. This is where the personal touch shines—your guide, Petra, or another host, shares stories about the winemakers and the unique characteristics of their wines. Guests mention how much they appreciated the personal tour and the chance to learn about the region’s winemaking traditions directly from passionate owners.

Lunch Stop: Vineyard Picnic

One of the tour’s highlights is the gourmet picnic amid the vineyards. The meal is thoughtfully prepared with ingredients sourced from local farmers—fresh fruits, cheeses, meats, and bread. Guests have raved about how delicious and fresh the food was, with one reviewer noting, “Petra prepared a delicious picnic with fresh and local fruits, cheeses, and meats.” You’ll sit back, enjoy your wine, and soak in the stunning countryside—arguably the perfect way to unwind midday.

Afternoon: Rivolet Winery

Post-lunch, you’ll visit a second family-owned winery in Rivolet. The wines here are appreciated for their authenticity and quality, giving you a taste of the region’s diversity. Reviewers mention how the winemakers are incredibly welcoming, making the experience more of a friendly chat than a formal tasting.

Final Stop: Oingt Village

As the day winds down, you’ll explore Oingt, a village renowned for its beautiful, golden stone buildings and panoramic views. This “Most Beautiful Village of France” is a feast for the eyes and perfect for wandering, photos, or simply soaking up the peaceful vibe.

Return to Lyon

The tour concludes with a one-hour drive back to the starting point in Lyon. Most travelers find this a good time to reflect on the day’s highlights or ask any lingering questions from their guides.

What We Loved About the Tour

From the reviews and details, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences are at the core of this tour. Guests repeatedly mention Petra, the tour guide, as being friendly, thoughtful, and full of interesting insights. She’s praised for her attention to detail—stopping for photos of sunflower fields or adjusting the itinerary to accommodate weather or special requests.

The scenery is another standout. Rolling vineyards, charming villages, and historic castles make for a day that’s just as visually satisfying as it is flavorful. The visits to small, family-run wineries mean you’ll sample wines that are not commercially mass-produced, often with stories behind each bottle, elevating the tasting experience.

The gourmet picnic is frequently highlighted as a memorable element. Fresh, local ingredients, thoughtfully prepared, and eaten in the open air—what’s not to love? One guest noted that the picnic lunch “was fantastic, with ingredients sourced from nearby farmers,” and that it felt like a genuine taste of regional life.

The Value for Money

Considering the price of $196.66 per person, many reviews point out that this is a great deal. You’re getting multiple winery visits, tastings, an expertly curated picnic, and a scenic drive—all with the convenience of pickup and drop-off in Lyon. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and less commercial.

Possible Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

While most guests rave about the experience, some mention the length—8 hours can be quite a long day if you prefer shorter outings. Also, since the tour involves driving between several stops, those sensitive to motion or with limited mobility should be aware. The tour is scheduled, so flexibility is limited, but the organized nature means little stress for travelers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts wanting to explore a lesser-known region with an emphasis on authentic, small-scale wineries. It’s also perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic drives and picturesque villages, as well as those looking for a relaxed, intimate day outside the city.

If you’re after a gourmet food experience combined with wine tasting and enjoy learning from passionate hosts, this tour offers excellent value. It’s less suited for anyone seeking a quick, high-energy tour—this is a full, leisurely day meant to savor both the scenery and the wines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Lyon’s city center, making it very convenient for travelers based in Lyon.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, covering multiple stops, tastings, and a picnic lunch.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 8 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience that feels personal and relaxed.

Are there any additional costs?
Most activities, including tastings and the picnic, are included in the price. You only need to bring your personal spending money if you wish to purchase wines or souvenirs.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While most travelers can participate, the focus on wine tastings and the length might not be ideal for very young children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking, especially in villages or vineyards, are recommended.

Is this tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
Since the itinerary involves walking through villages and vineyard areas and includes driving, it may not be suitable for travelers with significant mobility challenges.

Final Thoughts

This Beaujolais Wine Tour with Tastings and a Gourmet Picnic offers a thoughtfully curated way to experience one of France’s most charming wine regions. It combines the best of scenic beauty, authentic family-owned wineries, and delicious food, all delivered in a small-group setting.

Travelers who cherish personal interactions, regional authenticity, and a relaxed pace will find this tour a rewarding day out. The knowledgeable guides, paired with stunning views and excellent wines, make it a standout choice for anyone wanting to deepen their appreciation for French wine and countryside.

If you’re in Lyon and want an authentic, well-organized day exploring beyond the city buzz, this tour is definitely worth considering. Perfect for wine lovers, curious explorers, or anyone wanting a taste of rural France in style.