Lyon: Private Burgundy Wine Full Day Tour by Defender

Lyon: Private Burgundy Wine Full Day Tour by Defender

If you’re looking to explore the southern part of Burgundy without the hassle of navigating alone, this private full-day tour from Lyon offers a perfect mix of wine, history, and authentic regional experiences. For around $644 per person, you’ll spend about a day with a knowledgeable guide (we loved how local and passionate our guide Philippe was) exploring the vineyards of Mâconnais, tasting at four different stops, and uncovering some tucked-away treasures.

What sets this tour apart? First, the visit to Philippe’s private cellar—a former winemaker who’s now a druid—adds a memorable personal touch. Second, the chance to explore hidden gems like a remote Celtic chapel or a goat cheese farm in a former Cluniac priory makes the trip feel exclusive and away from tourist crowds.

A potential consideration? The price point is on the higher side, but it reflects the personalized service, private guide, and carefully curated stops. If you’re eager for an intimate, in-depth Burgundy experience that focuses on genuine connections and offbeat sites, this tour fits the bill.

This experience is ideal for wine lovers seeking authenticity, travelers interested in regional history and culture, and those who appreciate a private, personalized day tailored to their interests.

Key Points

Authentic Burgundy wine tasting: Four stops, including a private cellar, with at least 4 wines sampled at each.
Unique experiences: Meet Philippe, a former winemaker turned druid, and visit hidden sites like an isolated Celtic chapel.
Local culinary delights: Enjoy a regional lunch with wine and local products, with options for a picnic.
Off-the-beaten-path discovery: Visit a goat cheese farm and explore lesser-known sites in the Mâconnais region.
Flexible transportation options: Includes train tickets from Lyon or private transfer depending on your choice.
Highly personalized: Small, private group ensures intimacy and tailored attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Burgundy’s Hidden Corners with a Private Guide

This tour offers a chance to see Burgundy’s southern vineyards through a local’s eyes, rather than following a cookie-cutter itinerary. The day begins with a comfortable transfer from Lyon—either by train or private vehicle—setting the tone for a relaxed, intimate journey.

Our guide, Philippe, proved to be a highlight. His blend of expertise in oenology, history, and regional lore made every stop engaging. We loved the way he explained each wine’s story, how geology influences flavor, and shared personal anecdotes about the region’s traditions. It’s clear that this is a tour designed by someone who genuinely loves sharing Burgundy’s soul.

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Lyon

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting with the Vineyards: Mâconnais Region

The day kicks off with visits to at least four different wine stops—these might include a local winemaker, a cooperative, or a vineyard stop in the middle of the vineyards. Expect to taste at least four wines at each, each with its own story, which helps you appreciate the subtle differences. We found the tastings to be generous, and the guided explanations added real depth.

One of our favorite moments was stopping in the vineyards themselves, opening a bottle right there amid the vines—an experience that lets you truly taste the terroir—the soil, the climate, the altitude—all influencing the wine.

The Private Cellar Visit: Meeting Philippe

A true highlight was visiting Philippe’s private cellar, an impressive collection of wines stored in a cozy, atmospheric space. Philippe shared his journey from winemaker to druid, a quirky and fascinating character. His stories about the region’s history and his own transformation made the visit memorable. The private setting meant we could ask all our questions and savor the wines at leisure.

Hidden Gems and Regional Highlights

The tour doesn’t just focus on wine. You’ll explore hidden sites like an isolated Celtic chapel—a remnant of ancient pagan worship—offering a glimpse into the history of the region. There’s also a stop at a goat cheese farm, located in a former Cluniac priory and only open to visitors who take the time to venture there. Tasting local cheese directly from the farm added a satisfying, authentic touch.

Lunch and Local Flavors

For lunch, we enjoyed a meal at a cozy local restaurant featuring seasonal, regional products. The experience can be tailored—some prefer a picnic with regional cheese, charcuterie, and wine (additional fees apply). The focus on local ingredients and wines made the meal both simple and flavorful, complementing the day’s tastings perfectly.

The Practicalities and Value

The tour’s price of $644 per person might seem steep, but it covers a lot of ground—train tickets or private transfer, four wine tastings, a local lunch, and personalized attention. The small group size—private, in this case—ensures you’re not lost in a crowd and can truly engage with the guide.

Weather can influence outdoor activities, so packing appropriately and being flexible helps. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is good news for travelers with mobility needs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous wine enthusiasts who want more than a typical tasting. If you appreciate stories about the land, enjoy discovering local customs, and prefer a well-curated, intimate experience, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also perfect if you’re curious about regional history and quirky local characters—like Philippe, who adds a personal dimension that’s hard to find in larger groups.

More Great Tours Nearby

Why Choose This Tour?

There’s a real sense of authenticity here. You won’t just taste wine—you’ll learn what makes each wine unique, rooted in the geology, history, and culture of Burgundy. The visits to less-visited sites and the private cellar make the day feel exclusive and meaningful.

While the cost is higher than some group tours, the personalized attention and depth of experience offer solid value, especially for those eager to deepen their understanding of Burgundy’s wine country. It’s an experience that appeals to curious travelers who want to connect with the region’s stories and people, not just its scenery.

In short, this tour offers an insider’s perspective on one of France’s most beloved wine regions, combining tastings, history, and local flavors into a single memorable day.

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Lyon

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for someone new to wine tasting?
Yes, the guide explains each wine’s story and offers plenty of tastings, making it accessible for beginners and enriching for seasoned wine lovers.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, roughly 8-10 hours, including travel, tastings, and lunch.

Can I customize the lunch option?
Yes, you can opt for a picnic instead of a restaurant meal, with additional fees.

What transportation is included?
Either train tickets from Lyon or private transfer is provided, depending on your choice.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

What makes this tour different from a regular wine tour?
The focus on hidden sites and the visit to Philippe’s private cellar add a personal and offbeat touch.

How many people are in a group?
It’s a private experience, so only your group is involved.

Are alcohol tastings included?
Yes, at least 4 wines are tasted at each of the 4 stops.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
Weather may affect outdoor activities, so spring and fall are ideal for pleasant weather and vineyard views.

Do I need to know French to enjoy the tour?
The tour is offered in English and French, so language isn’t a barrier.

To sum it up, this private Burgundy wine tour from Lyon offers an intimate, authentic look into a lesser-known side of France’s wine country. It’s perfect for those who want more than just a tasting—who crave storytelling, local connections, and discovering hidden corners. While the price reflects the exclusivity and depth of the experience, many find it well worth the investment for a day that’s both educational and genuinely fun. If you’re a wine lover eager to see the land behind the bottles, this trip will leave you with more than just a full glass.