Beaujolais & Perouges Medieval Town (9:00 AM To 5:15 PM

Exploring the picturesque Beaujolais wine region and the charming medieval town of Perouges is an opportunity not to be missed. This small group tour from Lyon promises an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the lush vineyards and historic architecture that have captivated travelers for centuries. With a chance to meet a family-owned winery owner and sample the region’s exceptional Beaujolais wines, this tour offers a unique glimpse into the heart of French winemaking and cultural heritage. The personalized nature of the experience ensures a memorable journey for all who embark on this captivating adventure.

Key Points

A small group tour from Lyon exploring the picturesque Beaujolais wine region and the medieval town of Pérouges, lasting 8 hours.
Opportunity to visit a family-owned winery, sample 4-5 locally produced Beaujolais wines, and learn about the region’s unique terroir and winemaking traditions.
Guided tour of the charming medieval town of Pérouges, showcasing its well-preserved 15th-century architecture and remnants of the medieval fortifications.
Ample free time to wander the town’s charming streets and take in the timeless ambiance of the medieval setting.
Comfortable transportation by air-conditioned 8-seater minibus, with guiding in both English and French.

Tour Overview

This small group tour from Lyon explores the picturesque Beaujolais wine region and the medieval town of Pérouges over 8 hours. With a maximum group size of 8, you’ll enjoy the personalized experience as you’re transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus.

Your expert guide will share their knowledge of wine and the Lyon region throughout the day. Start by meeting a family winery owner and sampling 4-5 locally produced Beaujolais wines.

Then, take a guided tour of the charming medieval town of Pérouges before having free time to wander its cobbled streets independently. Complimentary transportation is provided, making this a hassle-free way to discover the best of Beaujolais.

Explore the Beaujolais Region

The Beaujolais region is renowned for its lush vineyards and exceptional wines, making it a premier destination for oenophiles and casual wine enthusiasts alike. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to visit a family-owned winery and sample 4-5 locally produced Beaujolais wines. The knowledgeable guide will share insights into the region’s unique terroir and winemaking traditions, heightening your appreciation for these distinctive vino.

Grape Varieties	Alcohol Content	Body	Tasting Notes	Food Pairings
Gamay	12-13% ABV	Light to medium	Cherry, raspberry, banana, spice	Charcuterie, grilled chicken, salmon
Pinot Noir	12-13% ABV	Light to medium	Red fruit, floral, earthy	Roasted pork, mushroom dishes, goat cheese
Chardonnay	12-13% ABV	Light to medium	Apple, citrus, mineral	Seafood, light pasta, salads

Meet the Winery Owner

After tasting the exceptional Beaujolais wines, you’ll meet the owner of the family winery who’ll share the personal story behind their legendary vintages.

You’ll learn how the winery has been passed down through generations, each adding their own touch to the time-honored process.

The owner will proudly guide you through the production, from pruning the vines to the careful blending that creates the region’s signature flavors.

You’ll gain a newfound appreciation for the dedication and artistry that goes into every bottle. This intimate encounter reveals the human element that makes Beaujolais wines so special, connecting you to the land and its passionate caretakers.

Sample Local Beaujolais Wines

Guests sip a delightful selection of 4-5 locally produced Beaujolais wines, savoring the region’s signature flavors.

They’ll meet the owner of a family winery, who’ll share insights into the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of each varietal.

From the light and fruity Gamay grape to the more robust and complex offerings, the wines showcase the diversity and quality of this renowned wine region.

The expert guide is on hand to explain the nuances of each pour, ensuring guests fully appreciate the terroir and craftsmanship.

It’s an immersive tasting experience that leaves everyone with a deeper appreciation for Beaujolais wines.

Guided Tour of Perouges

Next, the group ventures into the charming medieval town of Perouges, where they embark on a guided tour led by the expert guide.

Wandering the cobblestone streets, they marvel at the well-preserved 15th-century architecture, including the impressive ramparts and striking church steeple that dominate the skyline.

The tour highlights:

The beautifully restored historical buildings and houses that line the narrow lanes, giving the town a timeless ambiance.
The majestic town gate, a remnant of the medieval fortifications that once protected the community.
The opportunity to step back in time and imagine life in this quaint medieval setting, where the past seems to come alive around every corner.

Free Time in Perouges

Following the guided tour, visitors are granted ample free time to wander Perouges on their own, seeing the town’s timeless ambiance.

With no set itinerary, they’re free to explore the charming medieval streets and alleys at their own pace. Many choose to step into local shops, sample regional cuisine, or simply soak in the enchanting atmosphere.

Whether it’s admiring the half-timbered houses, taking in views from the ramparts, or discovering hidden corners, this self-guided portion allows travelers to truly connect with the character of Perouges. It’s a chance to savor the town’s living history and create their own memorable experiences.

Included Transportation and Guidance

The tour provides comfortable and convenient transportation throughout the day, with a high-comfort 8-seater minibus equipped with air-conditioning to shuttle visitors between the Beaujolais region and the medieval town of Perouges.

Guidance is provided by an expert who’s knowledgeable about the local wine and the Lyon region.

The tour includes:

Guiding in both English and French to ensure all participants can fully engage with the experience.
A wine tasting at a family-owned winery, where visitors can sample 4-5 locally produced Beaujolais wines.
A guided tour of the charming medieval town of Perouges, allowing travelers to enjoy its historic atmosphere.

Tour Accessibility and Exclusions

The tour is not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions or physical limitations. Those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or people with heart conditions or other serious medical issues should avoid this excursion. Plus, the tour is not wheelchair accessible. However, the meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for most visitors.

Exclusions	Details
Lunch	Available at local restaurants in the Beaujolais region
Hotel Pickup	Meeting point is at the Lyon Office de Tourisme building
Wheelchair Access	Tour is not wheelchair accessible
Medical Conditions	Not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Start and End?

The tour starts at 9:00 AM and ends at 5:15 PM. It’s an 8-hour small group tour that explores the Beaujolais wine region and the medieval town of Pérouges.

How Long Is the Drive From Lyon to Beaujolais?

The drive from Lyon to the Beaujolais wine region takes approximately 1 hour. The tour includes a visit to the picturesque medieval town of Pérouges, which is located within the Beaujolais region.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour doesn’t allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. Lunch is available at local restaurants in the Beaujolais region, which can be purchased separately. The tour includes a wine tasting but no other meals.

Is There a Dress Code for the Winery Visit?

There’s no formal dress code for the winery visit. Participants can wear casual, comfortable clothing. However, it’s best to avoid overly casual or sloppy attire out of respect for the winery owners and the wine tasting experience.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, visitors are welcome to take photos throughout the tour. The guide will encourage participants to capture the scenic vineyards, historic architecture, and unique experiences of the Beaujolais wine region and medieval town of Pérouges.