Full Day Private Vintage Land Rover Tour of Beaujolais & Burgundy

Imagine cruising through the rolling vineyards of Beaujolais and Burgundy in a charming vintage Land Rover, with the wind in your hair and some of France’s finest wines on your palate. This full-day private tour offers a personalized journey through lesser-known gems, led by passionate guides who bring the region’s stories alive. Starting in Mâcon, at just over $560 per person, this approximately 8-hour experience includes exclusive winery visits, scenic stops at prehistoric sites, and flexible tasting options tailored to your interests.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances informative storytelling with relaxed, authentic experiences—from meeting a former winemaker turned druid to tasting wines in family-run domaines. The tour’s intimate setting means you’re never just a tourist; you’re a guest in the region’s vibrant wine culture. Also, the fact that it’s entirely customizable is a huge plus for travelers who want to focus on what appeals most to them—be it historical sites, wine, or local traditions.

A potential consideration for some might be the physical aspect of certain stops—like hiking the hill of La Roche de Solutre. While the walk is only about 30 minutes, those with mobility issues should keep this in mind. Also, since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to factor in time for a meal, either at your own expense or picnicking in the vineyards.

This tour suits wine enthusiasts and culture seekers alike—those eager to see the hidden corners of Beaujolais and Burgundy, beyond the crowded tourist spots, with a relaxed pace and insider access. If you enjoy engaging guides, stunning landscapes, and authentic local experiences, this trip is likely to hit all the right notes.

Key Points

• Personalized and flexible itinerary tailored to your interests.
• Exclusive visits to private wineries and local artisans.
• Authentic experiences with passionate guides sharing stories and secrets.
• Beautiful scenery including vineyard views and historic sites.
• Comfortable transportation in a vintage Land Rover with WiFi.
• Includes wine tastings, snacks, and bottled water, with options for non-drinkers.

Exploring the Full Day Private Vintage Land Rover Tour of Beaujolais & Burgundy

A Unique Way to Discover the Region

This tour offers a rare chance to see the less touristy, more authentic sides of Beaujolais and Burgundy. Instead of the usual busloads at popular wineries, you’ll ride in a vintage Land Rover, evoking a sense of adventure and nostalgia. The tour is based in Mâcon, a strategic starting point, and is designed to take you off the beaten path—visiting private wineries, historic sites, and scenic viewpoints that most travelers never see.

The Itinerary: A Well-Balanced Mix of Culture, Nature, and Wine

The day kicks off with a visit to Vergisson in the Mâconnais region, known primarily for its white wines. Whether you tour a winery, meet a producer, or simply enjoy a bottle in the vineyards, this first stop sets the tone of relaxed, intimate discovery. The quiet beauty of this area, combined with the chance to taste local wines early on, makes it a fantastic introduction.

Next, your guide may take you to La Roche de Solutre, a prehistoric hunting site with panoramic views. If you’re up for a walk, it’s about a 30-minute easy hike to the top—an incredible spot that combines natural beauty with historical significance. From here, you’ll visit Solutre-Pouilly, a charming village with more wine tastings and scenic appeal.

The journey continues to Leynes, where a young, innovative wine-growing couple runs their domaine. Here, you’ll experience the enthusiasm of new-generation vintners, enjoying tastings right at the border of Beaujolais. It’s a perfect example of how traditional craftsmanship blends with fresh techniques.

Savoring Beaujolais: Crus and Scenic Views

The latter part of the day is dedicated to Beaujolais, starting with Saint-Amour, the first cru (premium wine area). Since lunchtime is flexible—either a local restaurant or a picnic in the vineyards—you can choose to dine amidst the vines, enjoying the region’s relaxed pace.

Following lunch, there’s time to visit the village church and learn about its history, traveling back in time through engaging stories. Moving onto Chenas, you might visit a cooperative housed in a castle, where you can taste robust red wines from this cru.

The highlight for many is the Château du Moulin-à-Vent, renowned as the “lord of Beaujolais” wines. The story of its late 19th-century competition with Romanée-Conti adds a fascinating layer of history, complemented by the sight of an authentic 15th-century windmill—truly a picture-perfect scene.

The final stops include Fleurie, known as the “most feminine” cru, and Julienas, a spirited rebel cru famous for its convivial atmosphere and local wine served at modest prices. Here, you’ll likely encounter local wine growers, adding a genuine sense of community and authenticity.

Guide and Personal Touch

Throughout the day, your guide—whose enthusiasm and knowledge are frequently praised—offers stories, insights, and tailored recommendations. One reviewer mentioned how their guide, Amelie, made the experience feel like visiting a friend, blending professional expertise with genuine warmth. Expect to hear about the region’s history, winemaking secrets, and local legends, all delivered in an accessible, friendly manner.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $566.66 per person might seem steep at first glance, but the tour includes private transportation, several wine tastings, snacks, bottled water, and WiFi—elements that add up if you were to arrange privately. The exclusivity of visiting private wineries and meeting passionate vintners makes it a valuable experience for those keen on authentic, behind-the-scenes access.

While lunch isn’t included, the flexibility to choose your own meal or picnic allows you to tailor the day further. The tour’s 8-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to see many sights without feeling rushed.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and “intimate relaxing experience,” emphasizing how much they appreciated personalized attention. One said, “Nelly felt like a second mom,” highlighting the warm, friendly atmosphere. Many mention the stunning views and superb wine selections—not just the quantity but the quality, with tastings of exceptional crus that deepen your understanding of regional differences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a wine lover craving authenticity, this tour is perfect. It suits those interested in small-scale wine production and local traditions, rather than large commercial wineries. The scenic stops and historical sites will appeal to travelers who want more than just tasting wine—they want to connect with the landscape and stories behind it.

The tour is best for adventurous spirits comfortable with an easy hike and open to a flexible schedule. Families with older children or those with mobility considerations should review the physical demands of certain stops. Since the experience is private, it’s also ideal for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a bespoke day out.

The Sum Up

This private vintage Land Rover tour offers a rich, authentic glimpse into the heart of Beaujolais and Burgundy, blending scenic beauty, historic sites, and world-class wines. Its strength lies in the personalized approach, allowing you to explore hidden corners with passionate guides who truly love sharing their region. It’s a tour that balances educational storytelling with relaxed indulgence, making it ideal for travelers eager to go beyond the usual tourist crowds.

While it’s more costly than a standard wine tour, the value comes from the exclusive visits, customization, and the chance to sample exceptional crus with local vintners. If you’re looking for a meaningful, memorable, and genuinely French experience, this tour will deliver.

This experience suits those who want more than just tasting—those eager to learn, see, and feel the local soul of Beaujolais and Burgundy in a comfortable, intimate setting. It’s perfect for curious wine enthusiasts and culturally-minded travelers who appreciate a touch of adventure and stories shared by passionate locals.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Absolutely. The tour includes wine tastings, but if you don’t drink alcohol, they can replace wine with locally made grape juice.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, multiple wine tastings, bottled water, soda, snacks like cheese and cold cuts, and WiFi onboard. Lunch is not included, giving you flexibility.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the original meeting point in Mâcon.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is designed to be entirely tailored to your interests, whether that’s focusing more on wine, history, or scenic views.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection if sunny, and a sense of curiosity. If you plan to hike La Roche de Solutre, bring appropriate footwear.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Gare de Mâcon and concludes at the same location, making it easy to plan your day around the experience.

Embark on this private journey, and you’ll return with more than just bottles of wine—you’ll carry stories, sights, and flavors that encapsulate the true spirit of Beaujolais and Burgundy.