Beaujolais & Perouges Medieval Town – Private Tour – Full Day from Lyon

A Perfect Day Out: Beaujolais & Perouges from Lyon

Imagine leaving behind the hustle of Lyon to wander through rolling vineyards, quaint medieval streets, and centuries-old architecture. For about 8 hours, a private guide takes you on an intimate journey into Beaujolais’s beautiful countryside and the historic charm of Perouges. At $940 for a group of up to four, this full-day experience promises personalized attention, delicious wine, and a peek into France’s lesser-known yet captivating sights.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines scenery and history with authentic wine tasting at a family-run winery — a real taste of the region’s tradition. The small-group format ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the knowledgeable guide makes history and winemaking come alive. On the flip side, the tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to eat on the go. This experience is best suited for those eager to explore scenic villages, enjoy quality wines, and get a taste of rural France with a relaxed, personalized touch.

Key Points

• Private, Personalized Experience: Only your group participates, offering flexibility and tailored attention.
• Authentic Wine Tasting: Visit a family-run winery and sample 4-5 Beaujolais wines in a friendly setting.
• Scenic Villages: Explore Oingt, one of France’s prettiest villages, and Perouges, a must-see medieval town.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines vineyard visits with historic town walks — a well-rounded day.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a luxurious Mercedes minivan with pickup service.
• Cost-Effective for Private Tour: At just under $1,000, it offers a private, immersive experience that’s hard to match in a guided tour.

Discovering Beaujolais and the Charm of Oingt

Leaving behind Lyon, your journey begins in the Beaujolais wine region, renowned for its golden stones, rolling hills, and vineyard landscapes. The first stop, the picturesque village of Oingt, is a highlight. With its ochre-colored medieval structures and panoramic views, it exemplifies France’s “Golden Stones Country.”

Strolling through Oingt, you’re likely to feel as if you’ve stepped into a storybook. The narrow, winding streets are lined with stone houses from the 13th to 16th centuries, each with a story to tell. The views across the undulating landscape dotted with vineyards are stunning, especially from vantage points that seem to stretch endlessly.

One of the tour’s standout moments is visiting a small family winery. Our guide, Olivier, helps you understand the winemaking process, from terroir to bottle, and you’ll have the chance to taste 4-5 wines in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Reviewers repeatedly praise the personalized attention and the chance to meet the winemaker, which adds a genuine flavor to the experience. It’s a hands-on visit, with private vineyard inspections and insights into traditional methods that make the tasting all the more memorable.

The Historic Marvel of Perouges

After soaking in the countryside, your next stop is Perouges, a medieval town that feels frozen in time. Its cobblestone streets and ancient houses, dating from the 13th to 16th centuries, seem to whisper stories of the past. This town is a favorite among film crews — it’s been used as a backdrop for movies like The Three Musketeers — and for good reason.

As you wander through Perouges, you’ll notice its well-preserved fortifications and medieval architecture. Our guide, Julie, shared fascinating details about the town’s history and architecture, making the visit more engaging. The town’s charm is complemented by the crafts shops and the opportunity to try the local specialty pancake, the galette, although it’s not included in the tour.

The visit lasts about an hour and 15 minutes, enough time to capture the medieval atmosphere, pick up some souvenirs, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll. The tour’s reviews emphasize the authenticity of this experience, with many visitors remarking on how it transports you back to the Middle Ages.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The entire tour operates with private transportation in a Mercedes deluxe minivan, making the journey comfortable and smooth. The pickup service from Lyon means you won’t have to worry about logistics — just show up ready for a day of discovery.

The tour starts at 9:00 am and lasts approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes, making it suitable for those who want an in-depth experience without rushing. While lunch isn’t included, the tour gives you flexibility to explore local cafes or bring a picnic, depending on your preference. Expect to pay around €20 per person if you wish to dine in one of the charming eateries.

The tour costs $940.04 per group, which breaks down to roughly $235 per person for a private experience — a reasonable price considering the personalized guide, private transport, and exclusive visits. Considering the quality of the experiences and the small group size, many reviews suggest that this tour offers excellent value.

What Past Guests Say

Multiple reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One noted that Olivier, the guide, was fluent in French, English, and Spanish, making communication smooth and enjoyable for international travelers. Guests have described the wine tastings as educational and fun, with the opportunity to meet winemakers and learn about regional techniques.

Reviewers also appreciated the stunning scenery and the chance to explore hidden gems outside Lyon. One remarked, “Tonight, as we opened a bottle of Chateau De Poncie, we reflected upon our trip and the wonderful experiences delivered by Olivier,” highlighting how memorable and meaningful the day was.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re looking for a personalized, relaxing, and authentic taste of France outside Lyon, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for wine lovers who want to learn about Beaujolais wines in a friendly setting, as well as history buffs eager to explore medieval towns. The small-group format makes it suitable for couples, friends, or small families wanting a more intimate experience.

Travelers who value scenic views, local culture, and bespoke guiding will find this tour to be a highlight of their trip. However, if you prefer self-guided explorations or more gourmet dining options, you might want to plan to dine separately or look for a tour that includes lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as it’s a relaxed day with scenic walks and tastings. However, children may need supervision around the vineyards and historic sites.

How long is the drive from Lyon?
The total duration includes transportation time, with pickup and drop-off included, so expect roughly 8 hours total. The drive itself is comfortable in a deluxe minivan.

Are there any physical demands during the tour?
The tour involves walking through villages and cobblestone streets, so comfortable shoes are recommended. There’s no strenuous activity involved.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have some free time in Perouges to find a local café or picnic.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private experience, you can discuss your preferences with the guide beforehand, such as spending more time in certain spots or visiting additional sites.

What wines are tasted during the visit?
You’ll taste 4-5 wines from a small family winery, gaining insights into Beaujolais regional varieties.

Is the tour appropriate for wine novices?
Absolutely — the guide and winery visits are educational and friendly, perfect for beginners and connoisseurs alike.

What’s the best way to prepare for the day?
Bring a camera for the scenery, some cash for souvenirs or snacks, and a bottle of water. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.

Are the towns crowded?
Both Oingt and Perouges can be popular, especially in peak season, but the private tour and early start help avoid the crowds.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through the provider’s site, with confirmation within 48 hours. Cancelation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Words

This private tour from Lyon offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into France’s scenic countryside and medieval history, paired with quality wines and intimate guiding. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a deliberate, engaging, and authentic experience beyond the city limits. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, history lover, or simply want to savor the slower pace of rural France, this day provides a wonderful, memorable escape that balances scenery, culture, and flavor seamlessly.

It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and genuine local experiences. While it’s not a gourmet meal-and-wine affair, the value in personalized attention, private visits, and scenic beauty makes it well worth considering as part of your Lyon adventure.