Private Full Day Burgundy Wine Tour by vintage Land Rover (Lyon)

Exploring the Private Full Day Burgundy Wine Tour by vintage Land Rover (Lyon)

Imagine spending a full day in the scenic vineyards of southern Burgundy, riding around in a vintage Land Rover, with a passionate local guide showing you the region’s best-kept secrets. This tour promises an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at Burgundy’s lesser-known spots, along with at least four generous wine tastings. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, history lover, or simply craving a unique adventure, this experience offers a blend of discovery, flavor, and authentic local connections.

What we love most about this tour is the personalized approach — traveling in a classic Land Rover gives you a sense of adventure that feels more like a trip with friends than a typical group outing. The guide, a true insider, shares stories and insights that bring Burgundy’s landscape and history to life. One possible consideration? The tour’s cost, at over $660 per person, is a significant investment, but when you factor in private transportation, multiple tastings, and exclusive visits, many find it to be well worth the splurge. This experience fits best for travelers who appreciate personalized, immersive experiences and have a keen interest in wine and local culture.

Key Points

• Authentic Exploration: Discover hidden vineyards and secret spots known mainly to locals.
• Expert Guidance: Guided by passionate insiders with deep regional knowledge and engaging stories.
• Luxury and Comfort: Travel in a vintage Land Rover, adding an element of fun and style.
• Tasting Variety: At least four wine stops featuring small producers, cooperatives, and vineyard tastings.
• Unique Stops: Visit a former winemaker turned druid, medieval ruins, a hilltop chapel, or a special goat cheese farm.
• Flexible and Private: The tour is exclusive for your group, with options to start from Lyon or Mâcon, and free cancellation.

The Experience in Detail

Starting in Lyon – Convenient and Flexible

Your day begins in Lyon at La Part-Dieu, a major transport hub, making it easy to arrive by train or private transfer if you’re already in the city. The tour kicks off at 9:30 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day’s adventures. The tour is designed as a private experience, so it’s just your group and the guide, which means a more tailored, relaxed atmosphere. The guide, whose knowledge was highly praised in reviews, is described as a walking encyclopedia, eager to share stories that enrich your understanding of Burgundy’s landscape and culture.

Scenic Drive in a Vintage Land Rover

Traveling in a vintage Land Rover is more than just transportation — it’s part of the adventure. The vehicle’s charm and open-air feel allow for unobstructed views of rolling vineyards, medieval ruins, or hilltop chapels. The guide will take you along scenic backroads, away from tourist crowds, to discover the region’s quieter, more authentic spots. Many reviewers noted how this mode of transport added a layer of fun and nostalgia to the experience, making the day feel special from start to finish.

Wine Tasting Stops – Four or More Opportunities

Throughout the day, you’ll visit a mix of small independent wineries, cooperatives, and even tastings right amid the vines. Expect generous tastings of at least four wines at each stop, allowing you to compare different styles, grapes, and winemaking approaches. Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the wines and the approachable, knowledgeable hosts at each location. One highlight is a visit to Philippes, a former winemaker turned druid, who owns a private wine cellar — a truly exclusive experience that many guests say is unforgettable.

The variety of tasting venues means you’ll encounter both traditional family producers and more experimental or unique setups. Some tastings might happen in cellars, in the middle of vineyards, or at cooperative wineries, giving you a well-rounded taste of Burgundy’s diverse wine scene.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of lesser-known attractions. Depending on your interests, your guide might take you to a peaceful hilltop chapel, explore medieval ruins, or visit a special goat cheese farm located on a Celtic site within a former Cluniac priory. These stops are often praised for their authenticity and the personalized attention you receive. Guests have shared that their guide tailored these visits to match their interests, whether that’s historical sites or culinary delights.

Personal Visits and Unique Stories

One of the most talked-about aspects is the visit to Philippes’ home, where the guide introduces you to a private wine cellar. Philippes, with his background as a winemaker and a new role as a druid, provides a fascinating perspective on Burgundy’s traditions and mysteries. Guests appreciated the intimate, behind-the-scenes nature of this visit, which is rarely accessible on regular tours.

Practical Details and Value

At over six hundred dollars per person, the price might seem steep, but it covers private transportation, multiple tastings, and highly personalized experiences. The tour’s length of about eight hours means you get a comprehensive look at Burgundy’s wines and sights without feeling rushed. The included train tickets or private transfer ensure smooth logistics, and the private tour setting means your group gets undivided attention.

Reviews and Authentic Insights

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, describing them as walking encyclopedias who bring the region’s stories to life. One reviewer mentioned that their guide was incredible at taking care of their needs and sharing interesting tidbits about Ainay, a lesser-visited part of Lyon with quaint restaurants. Another noted that this tour surpassed other experiences in France, describing it as “an experience as much as it was a meal,” emphasizing the depth and quality of the day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who crave a personalized, immersive day in Burgundy, especially those with an interest in wine, history, and authentic local spots. It’s perfect if you prefer a flexible, private setting over large tour groups and are willing to invest in a higher-end, memorable experience. If you’re a wine lover eager to explore both well-known and hidden vineyards, or someone who appreciates storytelling and cultural insight, this tour is a fantastic fit.

The vintage Land Rover adds a touch of adventure and nostalgia, making it particularly appealing for those seeking a unique way to explore the region. Keep in mind, the price point requires considering the value of exclusivity, personalized attention, and special visits like Philippes’ cellar.

The Sum Up

This Burgundy wine tour offers a rich combination of authentic vineyard visits, exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences, and scenic countryside exploration, all in a charming vintage Land Rover. Its private nature makes it particularly appealing for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to avoid the crowds and gain a deeper understanding of Burgundy’s wine culture.

The knowledgeable guides, personalized approach, and unique stops make this a memorable day — one that balances tasting, learning, and discovering Burgundy’s lesser-known treasures. While it might be a splurge, many guests feel the experience’s depth and authenticity justify the price, especially if you’re passionate about wine and local stories.

If you’re after a thoughtfully curated, intimate tour with a real insider’s touch, this experience stands out as a top choice in Lyon’s nearby wine regions.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is geared towards adults interested in wine, history, and culture. Service animals are allowed, but the experience involves wine tastings, so it’s best suited for those of legal drinking age.

How many people will be in my group?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

What transportation is used?
You’ll be traveling in a vintage Land Rover, which offers both style and comfort. The start point is in Lyon, with train tickets provided or private transfer depending on your choice.

Can I join this tour if I am already in Burgundy?
Yes, if you’re already in Burgundy, the meeting point can be arranged directly in Mâcon, avoiding the need for Lyon pickup.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 8 hours, allowing plenty of time for multiple tastings and visits without feeling rushed.

Are there any additional costs?
The price covers all tastings, transport, and visits. Extra purchases, like bottles or souvenirs, are at your discretion.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

Is this experience suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine, the guide’s stories and visits to other sites might still appeal to non-drinkers interested in Burgundy’s culture and history.

This private Burgundy wine tour promises an authentic, immersive experience with a perfect blend of scenic drives, hidden spots, and wine tasting that’s hard to beat for those seeking something truly special in France.