Beaujolais Crus Wines & Castles (2:00 pm - 6:30 pm)

Introduction: Perfect for Wine Lovers and Scenic Seekers

If you’re visiting Lyon and craving an authentic taste of France’s famous wine region, the Beaujolais Crus Wines & Castles tour offers a compelling half-day experience. This 4.5-hour small-group adventure, priced at just under $125 per person, takes you on a scenic drive through the beautiful Beaujolais countryside, exploring charming towns and tasting distinctive wines straight from local producers.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery—like the dormant Mont Brouilly volcano—with informative, friendly guides who share their passion for wine and regional history. Plus, visiting a family-run winery and a larger chateau gives you a well-rounded view of Beaujolais wine-making traditions.

One small consideration: the tour operates in a small group of up to 8 travelers, which means a cozy, intimate atmosphere, but it might not be ideal if you prefer larger, more social tours.

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, scenic travelers, and anyone who appreciates authentic local experiences in a relaxed setting. If you want to learn about regional viticulture, see charming villages, and enjoy some excellent wines, this is a route worth taking.

Key Points

Authentic visits to both a family winery and a chateau, offering diverse tasting experiences
Breathtaking views from La Madone Chapel, with potential sights of the Alps and Mount Blanc
In-depth insight into Beaujolais’ unique semi-carbonic wine production method
Expert guidance in English and French, making complex wine topics accessible
Scenic drive through picturesque towns and past volcanic landscapes like Mont Brouilly
Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere

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What to Expect: A Deep Dive into the Beaujolais Experience

Starting Point and Early Departure

The day begins at the Lyon Office of Tourism and Congress on Bellecour Square, right in the heart of the city. Meeting your guide, likely Olivier based on reviews, around 1:50 pm, you’ll hop into an 8-seater minivan that promises cozy travel through the beautiful Beaujolais wine region. The small group size, limited to about 8 travelers, ensures you’ll get a more personal experience—no large bus crowds here.

Scenic Ride and Introduction to Beaujolais

As you cruise along the “Route des Vins”, you’ll get a primer on “terroir,” that quintessential French idea that combines soil, climate, and tradition into the character of each wine. The highlight of the drive is passing the Mont Brouilly volcano, a dormant volcano cloaked in vineyards—a striking sight and an instant visual cue of the region’s volcanic soil, which influences the wine’s flavor.

Visiting a Family Winery in Cercie

Your first stop is a small family-owned winery, about an hour into the journey. Here, you’ll meet a passionate wine-maker who guides you through the semi-carbonic maceration process—unique to Beaujolais. This method involves fermenting whole grapes in a way that produces fresh, fruity wines with lively aromas.

Reviews from past travelers highlight the warmth and knowledge of guides like Olivier, who helps demystify wine-making. One traveler called the experience “incredibly informative,” and appreciated learning about how local wines are crafted with care. You’ll sample several crus Beaujolais wines from different vintages—giving you a real taste of the region’s diversity.

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Panoramic Views at La Madone Chapel in Fleurie

Next, the tour takes you to Fleurie, where a visit to La Madone Chapel offers panoramic views of the rolling vineyards and distant mountains—on clear days, the Alps and Mount Blanc might even be visible! This stop, about 10 minutes long, is perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the scenic beauty of the vineyard landscape.

Exploring a Château in Chénas

Traveling further along the Beaujolais wine road, you’ll pass through Moulin-à-Vent, then arrive in Chénas for a truly memorable visit. Here, you’ll explore a larger château, with a cellar full of oak barrels—a stark contrast to the intimate family winery. The guide will describe the aromas, balance, and complexity of the wines as you enjoy tastings in an atmospheric cellar.

This part of the tour is highly praised; one reviewer called it “unforgettable,” emphasizing the depth of flavor and aroma in the wines they sampled. It’s a highlight that provides a richer understanding of wine aging and production.

Wrap-up and Return to Lyon

By 6:30 pm, your guide will bring you back to Bellecour Square, concluding a day filled with scenic beauty, cultural insights, and delicious wines. The return journey allows you to reflect on the day, perhaps planning your next visit to the region’s vineyards or charming villages.

Why This Tour Offers Genuine Value

At around $125, this tour isn’t just about wine tasting—it’s about enjoying the landscape, culture, and craftsmanship that make the Beaujolais region special. The small group size ensures attentive guides who can tailor insights and answer questions, making it a more personal experience.

The combination of scenic drives, visits to both a family winery and a chateau, and the expert guidance makes this a well-rounded introduction to Beaujolais. While the price might seem modest for wine tastings, the real value lies in the authentic visits and beautiful vistas that you’ll remember long after the last sip.

The reviews suggest this tour is especially well-suited for wine enthusiasts, scenic travelers, and those looking for a relaxed, educational adventure outside the hustle of city life. If you’re eager to see charming towns, learn about unique wine-making techniques, and taste wines from the source, this tour hits all those marks.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Beaujolais Crus tour is an excellent choice if you want a small-group, well-guided journey through one of France’s most picturesque wine regions. The expert insights, stunning views, and diverse wine tastings make it ideal for travelers interested in wine culture and authentic regional experiences.

It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate understated elegance—not just drinking wine but understanding its story and origins. The tour’s value for money is evident in the quality of visits and the personal touch of guides like Olivier, who makes the region’s stories accessible and engaging.

If you’re visiting Lyon and want to take a thoughtfully curated glimpse into Beaujolais’ unique terroir, this tour offers a memorable, enriching afternoon. It balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and delicious wine—what more could a wine lover ask for?

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 2:00 pm and returning around 6:30 pm.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Lyon Office of Tourism and Congress on Bellecour Square and ends back there as well.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a cozy experience.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers a high-comfort minivan, guiding in English and French, and wine tastings of approximately 9 or 10 wines.

Are there any additional costs?
No, all the tastings are included. However, you might find opportunities to purchase additional wines during visits.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine tasting, non-drinkers could still enjoy the scenery, the town visits, and the panoramic views.

How accessible is the tour for public transportation?
The meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to reach from central Lyon.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option if your plans change.

This tour strikes a thoughtful balance between scenic beauty, cultural depth, and delicious wine—all within a relaxed, small-group setting. Perfect for those wanting an authentic taste of Beaujolais with a friendly guide leading the way.