Full Day Private Tour of Beaujolais by vintage Land Rover

A Perfect Day Exploring Beaujolais in a Vintage Land Rover

Imagine driving through scenic back roads in a classic Land Rover, stopping at charming villages, tasting exquisite wines, and discovering hidden gems in the Beaujolais region. For around $569 per person, this full-day private tour offers an intimate, flexible way to see one of France’s best-kept secrets. From the moment we were picked up in Lyon, we knew this experience would be special—personalized, relaxed, and packed with authentic sights and flavors.

What really sets this tour apart are the personalized attention from guides like Aldric, whose insights into local wineries and history add a layer of richness to the day. And the scenic drives in a vintage Land Rover—feeling both nostalgic and adventurous—make the journey as memorable as the stops themselves.

A potential consideration to keep in mind is that this tour is not ideal for those uncomfortable in a vintage vehicle or who prefer more structured, group tours. It’s a flexible, private experience that truly caters to those who enjoy scenic drives and off-the-beaten-path discoveries.

This tour suits travelers seeking an authentic, immersive experience—wine lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting to explore a less commercial side of France with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Private, tailor-made tour focusing on food, wine, and history.
• Scenic & Educational: Stops at medieval villages, castles, and WWII anecdotes.
• Wine & Food: Tasting local wines and cheeses, with options for picnic or restaurant lunch.
• Flexible Itinerary: Customizable stops based on your interests.
• Comfort & Style: Classic Land Rover provides a nostalgic, comfortable ride.
• Balanced Schedule: About 1h20 of driving, with plenty of time at each stop.

Exploring Beaujolais: A Full-Day Private Tour in a Vintage Land Rover

Traveling in a vintage Land Rover opens a window into the charm of Beaujolais, a region famous for its crisp wines and quaint villages. This tour offers a well-rounded look at the area’s best-kept secrets, from private medieval castles and picturesque villages to local artisans and family-run wineries. It’s a carefully curated experience blending scenic drives, cultural insights, and wine tasting in a way that’s both relaxed and enriching.

The Charm of the Route and Stops

The tour begins in Lyon, with options for premium pick-up or a courtesy train ticket, making logistics straightforward. The first stop is Fleurie, renowned for its feminine wines and charming streets lined with wine shops. We loved walking through this lively village, soaking in its relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.

Next is Saint-Amour-Bellevue, famously romantic—so much so that Japanese couples flock here to renew vows. Seeing the medieval church and hearing the guide’s anecdotes made this stop both picturesque and personal. Within just 20 minutes, we felt transported back in time, with a lovely view of the region stretching out in front.

The third stop, Chenas, is a bit less traveled but full of character. The castle here has a compelling WWI story, which the guide shared with enthusiasm, adding a historical layer to our visit.

In Julienas, we visited a historic church-turned-wine cellar, savoring a glass of local wine among passionate growers. This stop was particularly appreciated as one of the most popular crus, offering insight into the region’s reputation.

One of the highlights is the drive through the famous hill of Morgon, often hosting the Tour de France. The panoramic views and the sense of being in a true wine country made this stretch memorable.

The Heart of the Day: Lunch in the Vines

The mid-day break is flexible—either in a traditional local restaurant or outdoors for a picnic among the vines. We opted for a picnic, which the guide set up with delicious local cold cuts, cheeses, and fresh bread, all enjoyed with a backdrop of rolling vineyards. This casual meal added a layer of intimacy and authenticity to the experience.

Hidden Treasures and Historic Sites

From there, the tour takes us to Domaine de la Madone, where weather permitting, we enjoyed a barbecue or picnic lunch amid the grapevines—an unforgettable setting. The 12th-century chapel in Régnié-Durette was a true hidden gem, its wall paintings uncovered during a restoration in the 80s, making it a memorable stop for history and architecture buffs.

Later, the 5th-century abbey in Salles-Arbuissonnas offers a peaceful, almost solitary setting, perfect for appreciating the region’s spiritual heritage and medieval architecture.

Finally, a visit to Château de Nervers reveals a quirky, eccentric castle filled with stories of its colorful owner. The guide’s storytelling added a personal touch to an already intriguing site.

What Makes This Tour Special?

From reviews, we learned guides like Aldric and Amelie are praised for their local knowledge and friendly approach. Visitors appreciated the personalized visits to family-run wineries, which offer genuine insights, rather than commercialized tastings. One reviewer summed it up: “Aldric took us to places only a local would know, making the experience very personal.”

Guests also loved the scenic views, the delicious wine, and the authenticity of tasting with local producers. The lunch options—whether a picnic or a restaurant—are flexible, fostering a relaxed atmosphere.

The Value of the Experience

While the price of about $568.93 per person may seem steep, the experience justifies it through private, custom visits, delicious tastings, and the convenience of having someone else handle logistics. The tour’s length of 8 hours allows plenty of time to savor each stop without feeling rushed.

Given most reviews rate the experience a perfect 5, it’s clear that this tour delivers value for those eager for an intimate, insightful day in a stunning setting. The combination of scenic drives, cultural insights, and wine tasting creates a well-rounded, memorable experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts wanting to learn about Beaujolais’s crus in depth, history buffs interested in medieval and WWI stories, and food lovers eager to taste local cheeses, cold cuts, and wines. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy customized experiences and don’t mind a vintage vehicle ride, with the comfort of having a dedicated guide.

If you prefer large groups or highly structured schedules, this might not be your best fit. But if you’re after an authentic, relaxed, and flexible exploration of France’s lesser-known wine country, this adventure will not disappoint.

FAQ

How long is the drive during this tour?
You’ll spend approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes driving in the vintage Land Rover, making the journey as scenic as the stops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 18 will only be served non-alcoholic beverages, and the tour is best suited for those comfortable with a vintage vehicle.

What is included in the price?
The full-day private experience includes transportation in a vintage Land Rover, visits to various villages and sites, wine tastings, and a picnic or restaurant lunch. Some stops, like castles and chapels, are free, while others, such as the Château de Nervers, are included in the price.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, the tour is private and tailor-made, so guides are happy to adjust stops based on your interests, especially if you’re keen on specific wineries or historic sites.

What if the weather is bad?
Since much of the experience is outdoors, poor weather could affect the picnic or outdoor stops. The tour provider offers full refunds or rescheduling options if canceled due to weather.

Is pickup from Lyon available?
Yes, there is a premium pickup option in Lyon, or you can use the courtesy train tickets from Lyon, which take about 35 minutes.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 51 days in advance, ensuring availability for this popular experience.

Final Thoughts

This private Beaujolais tour offers a rare opportunity to explore France’s wine country in style, comfort, and authenticity. The combination of scenic drives, expert guides, delicious local food and wine, and historic sites makes it a standout choice for those looking to really connect with the region. It’s a perfect fit for curious travelers who want a personalized, enriching day away from the crowds.

While the price may be significant, the value lies in the bespoke experience and the chance to discover hidden corners that most visitors never see. Whether you’re a wine lover, a history enthusiast, or simply someone eager to enjoy France’s beautiful landscape in a unique way, this tour will leave you with wonderful memories—and plenty of stories to tell.