From Lyon: Beaujolais & Burgundy Private Tour by Defender

This private day tour offers an authentic taste of two of France’s most celebrated wine regions—Beaujolais and Burgundy—without the typical crowds. Guided by passionate insiders, you’ll explore hidden wineries, enjoy exclusive tastings, and step into the homes and cellars of dedicated locals. It’s a carefully curated experience designed for those who crave a deeper connection to the land, wines, and culture of these renowned regions.

One of the standout features? The journey takes place in a vintage Land Rover Defender, adding a fun, nostalgic touch that makes every moment feel special. Plus, the secret spots and behind-the-scenes access promise a level of intimacy you simply can’t find on more commercial tours.

A quick note to consider: because the tour features private visits to often-closed wineries and exclusive homes, the experience is tailored and flexible but does depend on weather conditions and availability. It’s ideal for curious travelers who love discovering lesser-known gems and enjoy personalized service. Perfect for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, or anyone looking for an authentic day out in southern Burgundy, this tour balances expert insights with relaxed, memorable moments.

Key Points

• Private, Customized Experience: Tailored to your preferences with insider access to hidden wineries and local spots.
• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Meet passionate winemakers and visit a former vintner’s home transformed into a druidic sanctuary.
• Exclusive Tastings: Sample high-quality crus in unique settings, including vineyard picnics and private cellars.
• Scenic Vintage Transport: Travel in a classic Land Rover Defender, making the journey just as memorable as the destinations.
• Flexible and Food-Inclusive: Options for picnic or restaurant lunch, with local cheese, cold cuts, and seasonal flavors.
• Educational and Fun: Gain insights into winemaking, terroir, and regional history from knowledgeable guides.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: From Lyon to Beaujolais and Burgundy

Most tours start with a pickup in Lyon, typically in the Vaise district, with transportation in the iconic Land Rover Defender. The vehicle’s vintage charm sets a relaxed, adventurous tone that appeals to those who love quirky, authentic travel moments. The drive itself offers fleeting glimpses of the countryside, gradually revealing the transition from urban Lyon to lush vineyards.

Exploring Beaujolais: Hidden Wineries and Unique Tastings

The first part of the day is dedicated to Beaujolais, a region famous for its vibrant reds and playful wines, but this tour takes you beyond the tourist trail. You’ll visit 2 to 3 private wineries, many of which are usually closed to the public. Here, your guide—an insider with deep knowledge—will introduce you to the nuances of Beaujolais crus.

One reviewer highlighted: “Aldric was an excellent host and guide. He tailored the day to what we wanted and brought us to the most wonderful spots.” This flexibility means you might taste rare vintages, learn about traditional fermentation, or simply enjoy chatting with passionate producers in intimate settings.

The tastings often include a mix of wines and local food pairings. In some cases, weather permitting, you’ll enjoy a chic outdoor food and wine pairing in the vineyard—imagine sipping fine wine against a backdrop of rolling hills and vineyards, with cheese and cold cuts to match.

A Personal Connection: Philip’s Home and Hidden Gems

The second part of the trip takes you into Burgundy, where you’ll step into the private home of Philip—an ex-vintner now embracing a new role as a druid. His cellar is arguably one of the most exclusive experiences on the tour, offering a behind-the-scenes look at a private wine collection and the personal stories of a dedicated winemaker.

One reviewer appreciated this aspect, noting: “We saw Beaujolais and Burgundy through a few different lenses—chateau vineyard, a wine market, a wine collective, and an event space with its own cave. It was unlike any other wine tour I’ve been on.” This showcases the tour’s focus on variety and depth, providing multiple perspectives on the region’s wine culture.

More Hidden Gems and Cultural Touches

Beyond wineries, your guide might suggest visits to a medieval château or a charming goat farm offering fresh, artisanal products. These small stops are designed to enrich your understanding of local traditions, terroir, and craftsmanship, making the day as educational as it is relaxing.

Lunch and Scenic Moments

Lunch is flexible—either a luxurious countryside picnic with regional cheese, bread, and seasonal produce or a cozy meal at a recommended local restaurant. Both options emphasize regional flavors, and guides are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions, including vegan options or grape juice substitutes.

If the weather is favorable, you’ll indulge in a food and wine tasting right in the vineyards, with panoramic views that make every sip taste even better. The landscape is beautifully lush, especially in early autumn or late summer when the grapevines are bursting with color.

The Return and Reflection

The tour typically concludes in Lyon, with drop-offs at your chosen location. Many guests have commented on how the personalized approach and insider access made the experience stand out from standard wine tours. As one reviewer put it, “Aldric continued to refine and redirect our day as he learned more about what we enjoyed. It was a truly personalized adventure.”

Analyzing the Value

At $556 per person, the tour offers a lot of value, especially considering the private nature, exclusive visits, and expert guidance. You’re paying for an intimate experience that goes beyond generic tasting rooms to include private homes, hidden wineries, and scenic countryside. The inclusion of tastings at 2-4 locations, a private guide, and the vintage transport all add to this value.

Compared to larger group tours, this experience provides flexibility, personalized attention, and authentic encounters—perfect for those who want more than just tasting wine, but to understand the culture and stories behind it.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine lovers, curious travelers, and those wanting to explore France’s lesser-known regions without the crowds. It’s ideal if you appreciate private experiences, are comfortable with a full-day commitment, and want the flexibility to customize your visit. Those who enjoy scenic drives, authentic encounters, and high-quality tastings will find it particularly rewarding.

Practical Details

• Duration: 1 day, with flexible start times depending on your booking.
• Transport: Vintage Land Rover Defender, adding a fun and nostalgic touch.
• Group size: Private, ensuring personalized attention.
• Inclusions: Private guide, tastings at 2-4 wineries, cultural and scenic spots, vineyard food and wine.
• Not included: Lunch (your choice of picnic or restaurant), any extra drinks or purchases.
• Price: $556 per person, offering a comprehensive, tailored day that balances education, tastings, and scenic beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, the experience lasts around 8 hours, including visits, tastings, and meals, making it a full-day exploration of Beaujolais and Burgundy.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is fully flexible, and guides will tailor stops based on your interests and preferences, whether you’re more into wine, history, or local culture.

What’s the transportation like?
You’ll travel in a vintage Land Rover Defender, which adds charm and comfort. It’s a small group, so the ride is intimate and scenic.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, guides can replace wine with local grape juice and adjust food offerings to suit vegan or other special diets.

What regions are covered?
The tour covers both Beaujolais and southern Burgundy, focusing on hidden wineries and private homes rather than tourist hotspots.

Is the experience suitable for all ages?
It’s designed for adults; babies under 1 year are not recommended. The focus is on wine, culture, and scenic drives.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a rare chance to experience Beaujolais and Burgundy in an intimate, personalized way. It’s perfect for travelers who want to go off the beaten path, discover hidden wineries, and connect with local winemakers and their stories. The vintage Land Rover adds a fun, nostalgic element that elevates the entire day, making it as much about the journey as the destinations.

The combination of exclusive access, knowledgeable guides, and scenic landscapes makes this a memorable and highly valuable experience. Whether you’re a dedicated wine aficionado, a curious culture seeker, or simply someone who loves authentic travel moments, this tour strikes a wonderful balance of education, relaxation, and adventure.

For those seeking a deeper, more meaningful introduction to France’s wine regions—away from the crowds—this private experience is an excellent choice that promises both discovery and delight.