Beaujolais Day Guided Tour – Winery Tours and Tastings

Exploring the Beaujolais Day Guided Tour: A Deep Dive into France’s Wine Heartland

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through charming villages, sampling world-class wines, and learning about winemaking from passionate locals, the Beaujolais Day Guided Tour might be just what you need. This carefully curated experience offers a blend of scenic drives, educational tastings, and cultural highlights—all wrapped up in a comfortable, small-group setting.

What really makes this tour shine is the expertise of your guide, Justine Poncet, who is not only knowledgeable but genuinely enthusiastic about sharing her love of the region. From her lively commentary to the well-planned itinerary, every detail seems designed to give you an authentic taste of Beaujolais.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite popular, often booked 59 days in advance, and it moves at a steady pace — making it more suited for those who enjoy a full, immersive day rather than a leisurely, unstructured outing. Still, if you’re a wine lover, history buff, or simply eager to explore French countryside with a small, engaged group, this experience could become a highlight of your Lyon trip.

Key Points

• Expertly Guided Experience: Led by local guide Justine Poncet, known for her engaging storytelling and regional knowledge.
• Small Group Size: Up to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.
• Diverse Itinerary: Includes visits to picturesque villages, vineyards, and a delightful regional lunch.
• Quality Tastings: Enjoy 10+ wines across two estates, with detailed commentary on grape varieties and terroirs.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a luxury Mercedes vehicle, making the journey as enjoyable as the stops.
• Authentic Regional Insights: Gain insights into the history, culture, and secrets of Beaujolais wine production.

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Duration:
The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am at the Statue of Saint Exupéry in Lyon’s Place Bellecour. From there, you’re whisked away in a spacious, air-conditioned Mercedes, which is a definite plus for comfort. The entire day runs approximately 8 to 9 hours, with the return to Lyon estimated between 5:30 pm and 6:00 pm — a full day packed with sights, tastes, and stories.

First Stop: Oingt & Tasting in the South of Beaujolais
Your first taste of the region comes in Oingt, one of France’s most beautiful villages. This medieval gem with cobblestone streets and panoramic vineyard views sets the perfect tone for your day. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided wine tasting, sampling 4 to 6 wines, and learning about the region’s unique wine-growing traditions. Reviewers like Deborah note that Justine’s knowledge “provided lots of interesting facts,” which added a layer of depth to the tasting experience.

The Charm of Oingt & the Countryside
After the tasting, you’ll take a 30-minute walk through Oingt’s winding streets, soaking up the authentic atmosphere. As Alex mentions, “The stops were perfect, and the village was excellent,” highlighting how the village’s historic architecture and scenic surroundings make for a memorable visit.

Vineyard & Village Passages
The drive through the golden stone villages of Beaujolais’ des Pierres Dorées is just as impressive as the tasting stops. Expect stunning views of vineyards stretching to the horizon, perfect for photo ops and soaking in the region’s natural beauty.

Lunch in Mont Brouilly
Midday, you’ll pause for a regional lunch at a local restaurant, with menus starting from €25. Though not included in the tour price, the reservation is made for the group, making it easy to enjoy authentic Beaujolais cuisine—think hearty, regional dishes paired with local wines. Reviewers like Stephen note that sitting in a cozy restaurant and sampling regional dishes “made the day even more special.”

Exploring Fleurie & Second Estate
In the afternoon, the journey heads north to Fleurie. Here, you’ll taste another 4 to 6 wines, each reflecting the nuances of different terroirs. Our sources mention that the guide’s explanations of grape varieties like Gamay and Chardonnay help clarify what makes Beaujolais wines distinctive. Guests love discovering the subtle differences between wines and understanding the winemaking techniques, adding educational value to the tasting.

Final Return & Reflections
The trip wraps up back in Lyon, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The small group size means everyone has the chance to ask questions and share impressions, making the experience feel more like a day spent with friends than a tour.

Transport & Logistics – Why They Matter

Traveling in a luxury Mercedes ensures comfort, especially after a long day of sightseeing and tasting. The small group—up to 8 travelers—creates a cozy atmosphere that fosters more personal interactions with the guide and winemakers. The timing is well-paced, balancing sightseeing, tasting, and a hearty lunch, so you won’t feel rushed or bored at any point.

The tour’s price of $176.69 per person offers good value, considering the inclusion of multiple tastings, expert guidance, and private transport. When you compare this with the cost of tasting at wineries individually or self-driving around the region, it becomes an accessible way to enjoy Beaujolais without the hassle of planning logistics.

Authentic Experiences & What Travelers Say

Beyond the scenic views and delicious wines, what truly makes this tour stand out is the expertise of Justine. Reviewers consistently praise her for being “very knowledgeable,” “engaging,” and “accommodating.” Deborah mentions she “provided lots of interesting facts,” which enhanced her understanding and appreciation of the wines. Meanwhile, Alex notes that Justine’s ability to answer all questions made the day both educational and fun.

Another highlight is the chance to meet members of the wine estates. This personal connection adds depth that you simply can’t get from a tasting room visit alone. Plus, the variety of wines—red and white—gives a rundown of what Beaujolais has to offer.

Practical Considerations & Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour is quite popular and often booked nearly two months ahead.
• Price covers tastings in two different areas, guided explanations, and transport, but lunch is extra—reserve at a local restaurant from €25.
• Dress comfortably for walking around villages and vineyards; bring layers, as weather can change.
• A small group means you get more attention from the guide, but it’s also more intimate—so if you prefer privacy, this is a great option.
• Alcohol consumption is reserved for those 18 and over, so carry ID if needed.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to travelers who want an authentic, immersive experience of Beaujolais beyond just tasting wine. If you enjoy learning about regions and their traditions from passionate locals, this is a perfect fit. It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or friends who value comfort, quality, and genuine insights.

Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of tastings and detailed explanations, while those interested in French villages and scenic drives will find the itinerary charming and well-paced. Given the emphasis on local culture and the picturesque scenery, it’s a rewarding day for anyone eager to see a different side of France’s wine country.

The Sum Up: Is the Beaujolais Day Guided Tour Worth It?

For anyone curious about French wines, especially Beaujolais, this tour offers a thoughtful blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and expert guidance. The small group, personalized attention, and diverse stops make it a compelling choice for a full-day adventure from Lyon.

Travelers who love tasting a variety of wines, exploring authentic villages, and learning directly from passionate locals will find this experience both educational and enjoyable. The comfortable transport, well-planned itinerary, and enthusiastic guides ensure a memorable day that balances fun, knowledge, and relaxation.

While the price is reasonable considering the inclusions, those seeking a leisurely pace or a very budget-friendly option might want to consider other alternatives. However, for a balanced, immersive, and authentic insight into Beaujolais, this tour is a standout choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Since the tour involves wine tastings and is reserved for those 18 and over, it’s best suited for adults who can enjoy the tastings responsibly. Non-drinkers can still enjoy the sightseeing and cultural stops but won’t participate in tastings.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 to 9 hours, with the return to Lyon around 5:30 to 6:00 pm, making it a full-day outing.

What’s included in the tour price?
You get guided tastings of around 10 wines at two different estates, transportation in a luxury vehicle, and the guidance of a knowledgeable local. The tastings and the guide’s commentary are included; lunch is paid separately.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund, making it flexible for changing travel plans.

What if I have dietary restrictions or preferences?
While specific dietary needs aren’t explicitly mentioned, the local restaurant reservation can usually accommodate common requests—just communicate in advance if possible.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at the Statue of Saint Exupéry at Place Bellecour in Lyon and returns there at the end of the day, making it very convenient for travelers staying in the city.

This guided Beaujolais tour balances scenic beauty, authentic wine experiences, and expert storytelling—making it an excellent choice for those looking to deepen their appreciation of France’s renowned wine region.