Beaujolais & Perouges Medieval Town (9:00 am to 5:15 pm – Small Group Tour Lyon

If you’re looking for a way to escape the city and soak up some genuine French charm, this Beaujolais & Pérouges small group tour offers a thoughtfully curated day out. It promises a blend of scenic landscapes, historical villages, and, of course, plenty of wine. Based on reviews and the tour itinerary, it’s clear this experience hits all the right notes for lovers of wine, history, and authentic towns.

What we love about this tour is how it balances personalized attention in a small group, the opportunity to taste locally produced wines directly from a family winery, and the chance to wander through medieval Pérouges, a town often described as a step back in time. Plus, the scenic drive through Golden Stones Country offers stunning views of ochre-colored villages and rolling vineyards.

However, one aspect to consider is the timing and pace—with many stops and a full day packed in, you’ll want to enjoy each moment without feeling rushed. This tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed yet immersive experience that combines wine, history, and picture-perfect scenery.

Who is this tour best for?

It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting to explore the less touristy backroads of Lyon’s surroundings. If you prefer flexible, smaller group experiences with an expert guide, this one should definitely be on your radar.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Wine tasting includes 4-5 local wines, with the opportunity to learn from a family winemaker.
• Beautiful villages like Oingt and Pérouges offer authentic medieval architecture and scenic views.
• Expert guides who provide informative commentary in English and French.
• Delicious regional cuisine available at a local bistrot—lunch is optional but highly recommended for full enjoyment.
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, stunning landscapes, and enjoyable wine and food experiences.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Meet & Start in Lyon

Your day begins early at the Lyon Office de Tourisme on Bellecour Square, a central spot easy to access with public transport. From there, a comfortable 8-seater van whisks you away into the countryside. The small group size (up to 8 travelers) means you’ll get more personalized attention—your guide, Olivier, or Sebastien, often shines with their local knowledge and friendly approach.

Discover Châtillon d’Azergues

Your first stop is in the medieval town of Châtillon d’Azergues, where 13th-century castles are surrounded by ancient ramparts. The quick 10-minute stop allows you to take photos of the well-preserved fortifications and soak in the history of this quiet, picturesque town. Reviewers consistently mention how these stops offer a more authentic experience compared to larger bus tours.

Explore Oingt, One of France’s Most Beautiful Villages

Next, the van takes you across several ochre-hued villages like Chessy Les Mines and Bagnols. Your main stop is Oingt, which ranks among France’s most beautiful towns. Here, you’ll wander down cobblestone streets, visit the Saint Mathieu church, and enjoy sweeping views of vineyards and rolling hills.

Guests describe the scenery as “stunning,” with one reviewer mentioning the “panoramic views of vineyards and medieval buildings.” This part of the tour offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to breathe in the fresh country air.

Visit a Family Winery in Moire

The highlight for many is the visit to a family-run winery in Moire. Here, you get to inspect the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy tastings of several Beaujolais wines, including white, rosé, and red. One reviewer noted the experience as “learning about terroir and tradition from the winemaker himself,” emphasizing how direct access to producers enriches the tasting.

The wine tastings are not just sampling—they are an educational journey, with your guide explaining the nuances of each wine and how the local soil and climate influence flavor. The relaxed environment makes it easy to ask questions and really connect with the process.

Lunch in Beaujolais

Lunch isn’t included in the tour price but is highly recommended. You’ll find local bistrot options serving regional cuisine, with menus starting around €17. Reviewers praised the lunch for its quality and regional authenticity—think hearty dishes paired with local wines. The guide offers translation and suggestions, making it accessible even if you’re not fluent in French.

Discover Pérouges, the Medieval Gem

In the afternoon, after a scenic 45-minute drive, you arrive in Pérouges, a step back into the Middle Ages. Its cobblestone streets and ancient houses from the 13th to 16th centuries make it a favorite among reviewers. Many mention the town’s role as a film set, including scenes from The Three Musketeers.

You’ll have about 30 minutes of free time to explore craft shops, try the local pancake called “galette,” or simply soak in the atmosphere. The town’s preserved architecture and storybook charm make it a highlight.

Return to Lyon

Your day wraps up with a comfortable drive back, arriving at Bellecour Square around 5:15 pm. Reviewers love this ending, especially after a day full of sights, tastes, and stories—perfect for unwinding and reflecting on a day well spent.

The Practical Side: Transport, Timing & Value

The 8-seater minivan offers a cozy, less hurried experience compared to larger tour buses. Air conditioning and easy access make the journey comfortable, and the small size ensures you can ask questions and customize your experience a bit more.

The tour runs from 9:00 am to approximately 5:15 pm, giving you a full day but not so long that it becomes exhausting. The timing allows ample opportunity at each stop—whether it’s wandering through villages, tasting wines, or enjoying a leisurely lunch.

Price-wise, at about $161 per person, the tour offers good value considering the inclusions: knowledgeable guides, multiple wine tastings, and visits to several charming towns. The wine tasting alone, featuring 4-5 wines, is a highlight for many, and the opportunity to learn directly from a family winemaker adds depth.

Reviews consistently praise the guides’ expertise and friendly manner, making the experience feel personal rather than touristy. Travelers also appreciate the balanced mix of sightseeing, tasting, and free time.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

Vineyard visits stand out as a core part of this tour. Unlike generic wine tastings, here you get insights into local terroir from the winemaker himself, which many reviews say elevates the experience. The villages—Oingt and Pérouges—are beautifully preserved and less commercialized, offering authentic glimpses into medieval France.

The culinary component—lunch at a local bistrot—is not included in the ticket price but is highly recommended. Reviewers describe it as “delicious regional cuisine,” often highlighting how the guide helps translate menus and explain dishes, adding to the culture.

The scenery—from misty valleys to ochre-colored villages—makes for superb photo opportunities and memorable moments. Travelers also mention the relaxing van ride, often described as restful and scenic, especially if you opt for a nap after a full morning of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is a gem for those who prefer small-group experiences, seeking to connect more deeply with local culture, wine, and history. It strikes a good balance between guided commentary and personal exploration, making it ideal for travelers who want an authentic taste of France outside the city buzz.

Wine lovers will especially enjoy the personalized tastings at the family winery, while history and architecture enthusiasts will find plenty to marvel at in Pérouges and the surrounding villages.

If you’re after a relaxed yet enriching day with plenty of photo ops, good food, and a chance to learn about regional wines, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just remember to bring your camera, a curious mind, and an appetite for regional stories and flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. However, there are local restaurant options, and prices start from around €17. The guide can assist with translations and recommendations.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 9:00 am and returns around 5:15 pm, giving you a full but manageable day of sightseeing and tasting.

What is the group size?
A maximum of eight travelers ensures a more personalized experience and easier interaction with the guide.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
While the wine tastings are included, meals are not. You might also want to budget for souvenirs or extra snacks.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a high-comfort air-conditioned 8-seater minivan, making the drive pleasant and scenic.

Can I participate if I don’t speak French?
Absolutely. The guide speaks both English and French, and reviews mention that communication is clear and friendly.

This Beaujolais & Pérouges tour offers a fantastic way to experience the scenic beauty, historical charm, and delicious wines of the region—all in a cozy, small-group setting. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just looking to explore charming villages, this day trip promises memorable moments and authentic insights into France’s Rhône-Alpes.