Southern Burgundy Wine Tour – Full Day Shared tour from Lyon

Authentic Burgundy: A Full Day of Wine and Scenic Beauty from Lyon

Imagine spending a day wandering through some of France’s most celebrated vineyards, tasting exquisite wines, and soaking in the stunning landscapes of Southern Burgundy. This full-day shared tour from Lyon offers just that, taking you through the Macon and Beaujolais regions with a small, friendly group of no more than eight travelers. For $166.23 per person, you’ll enjoy about eight hours of culture, scenic drives, and wine tasting, all led by an informed and personable guide.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are two things: first, the personalized attention you get from a small group, and second, the chance to sample 11 to 12 wines from some of the region’s top estates. The transportation is all-inclusive and comfortable, which means you can relax and focus on the views and flavors rather than logistics. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that lunch is not included, so you’ll want to budget for a meal or snacks during the day.

This tour works especially well for wine lovers eager to explore without the hassle of planning multiple tastings or navigating unfamiliar roads. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy small-group intimacy and want a deeper, more authentic experience than a large bus tour.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 8 travelers ensures personalized attention.
• Tastings of 11-12 regional wines, including Pouilly-Fuissé, Pouilly Vinzelles, and Brouilly.
• Scenic drives along the famous wine route through picturesque villages and landscapes.
• Expert guidance that enriches your understanding of the region’s wine and history.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned minivan makes the day relaxed and enjoyable.
• Flexible timing with opportunities for photos, sightseeing, and tasting in a leisurely manner.

An In-Depth Look at the Burgundy Wine Tour

Starting Point: Lyon’s Bellecour Square

The journey kicks off in Lyon’s Bellecour Square, a vibrant meeting spot in the city center. At 8:50 am, your guide (likely a knowledgeable local) will meet you in front of the Office of Tourism and Congress of Metropolis of Lyon. The short walk to the waiting 8-seater minivan feels like a perfect way to start soaking in Lyon’s lively atmosphere. The small group size means you’re not just a number—you get to know your fellow travelers and your guide quickly, setting a friendly tone for the day.

Driving into the Heart of Burgundy: Romaneche-Thorins and Beaujolais

After a 40-minute drive, you’ll arrive in the northern part of the Beaujolais region, renowned for its granite terroirs and dramatic landscapes. The stop at Moulin-à-vent offers a wonderful photo opportunity and a chance to learn about the Gamay grape, which is the star here. The scenery is described as breathtaking, and it’s easy to see why this region is famous for its vibrant reds and whites.

Discovering Macon and Pouilly-Fuissé in Fuissé

Next, the tour heads to Fuissé, the birthplace of Chardonnay in Macon. Visiting a family-owned estate, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at wine-making and barrel aging, which adds real depth to the tasting experience. Expect to taste several white and red wines, including the highly regarded Pouilly-Fuissé. The guide’s detailed explanations highlight the finesse and freshness of these wines, with a slight oak finish that appeals to many wine aficionados. One reviewer noted that the wines are perfectly balanced and a true reflection of the regional style.

Admiring Solutré Roch: A Natural Marvel

A quick stop to La Roche de Solutre offers a break from tasting and a chance to appreciate one of nature’s masterpieces. This 493-meter-high limestone formation is a symbol of Southern Burgundy and a major Paleolithic site. The views over the vineyards and the surrounding countryside are said to be spectacular, and this stop provides a perfect photo op and a moment to breathe and absorb the landscape.

Strolling through Cluny: History and Gastronomy

The town of Cluny is famous for its historic abbey, but the tour includes a leisurely stroll through its streets. This part of the day is also a good opportunity to sample local cuisine, with many restaurants offering menus around 20 euros, though food is not included in the tour price. The warm, inviting atmosphere of Cluny makes it a fitting place to slow down and enjoy the local charm.

Visiting a Burgundy Wine Château: The Red and White Finale

In the afternoon, you’ll visit a pretty Burgundy wine château in La Roche-Vineuse, where the guide will take you through the vaulted cellar and the wine cellar, culminating in a tasting of six wines. The wines here are characterized by fruity bouquets, aromatic complexity, and a nice length on the palate. This part of the tour is especially praised for its friendly, relaxed environment and the detailed tasting notes that help you savor each sip.

Practical Details and Value

The transportation in an air-conditioned minivan makes the entire day comfortable, especially after a morning of sightseeing and tastings. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction with the guide and fellow travelers. The price of $166.23 is quite reasonable considering the 11-12 wine tastings, the guided visits, and the scenic drives.

However, since lunch is not included, you’ll want to plan ahead—perhaps a picnic or a reservation at a local restaurant. The tour’s focus on wine and landscapes provides a relaxing escape, perfect for those who prefer a balanced mix of tasting, sightseeing, and gentle walking.

Authentic and Knowledgeable Guides

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. One described their guide, Olivier, as incredibly knowledgeable, adding that the day was “fantastic” and “enjoyed learning about the history and wine.” Such personalized guidance makes a big difference when exploring a region with such depth and tradition.

The Experience’s Strengths and Potential Drawbacks

The small group size and personalized approach seem to be the biggest highlights, making for an intimate and authentic experience. The scenic routes and quality wines are also highly valued, with visitors noting the beautiful environment and delicious tasting opportunities.

A consideration is that since lunch isn’t included, travelers who want a full gastronomic experience might need to plan accordingly. Also, the 8-hour duration means a full day’s commitment, so it’s best suited for those with a flexible schedule interested in wine and scenery rather than quick sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Burgundy wine tour is perfect for enthusiasts wanting a curated, small-group experience. If you appreciate learning about wine production, enjoy beautiful drives and scenic stops, and prefer tastings in relaxed, friendly settings, you’ll find this tour meets and exceeds expectations. It’s also suitable for travelers who enjoy authentic regional atmospheres and want to get a true taste—literally and figuratively—of Burgundy’s renowned wines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in the tour?
No, food is not included. However, the tour stops at restaurants with menus around 20 euros, and you’re encouraged to plan for a meal or snacks during the day.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample about 11-12 wines, including notable appellations like Pouilly-Fuissé, Pouilly Vinzelles, and Brouilly, with a focus on both red and white wines.

How comfortable is the transportation?
Transportation is in an air-conditioned minivan, which ensures a comfortable ride through scenic routes and between stops.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, offering a more personalized experience compared to large bus tours.

Who leads the tour?
An English-speaking guide, with reviews praising guides like Olivier for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience engaging and informative.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes, starting around 9:00 am and returning to Lyon in the late afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially those interested in wine, scenic drives, and small-group experiences. It’s best suited for those with flexible schedules and a curiosity for Burgundy’s wines and landscape.

Final Thoughts

This Southern Burgundy Wine Tour from Lyon offers a well-balanced day of wine tasting, scenic drives, and cultural stops, making it a fantastic option for those eager to explore France’s wine heartland without the hassle of self-driving or large groups. The small-group setting, expert guide, and focused itinerary create a more authentic and engaging experience that many travelers cherish.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning from knowledgeable guides, appreciates beautiful vistas, and values quality wines, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip. Just be prepared to plan for lunch separately, so you can fully enjoy the tastings and sights without feeling rushed.

In all, it’s a great value for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike who want a taste of Burgundy’s legendary wines and landscapes, all wrapped into one memorable day.

Note: For more options or similar experiences, check out other tours listed in the related experiences links—each offers a different slice of Lyon’s rich regional flavors.