Explore Beaujolais: A Perfect French Getaway

Relaxing in Beaujolais

Finding tranquility in Beaujolais is effortless. Serene roads meander through verdant vineyards, historic stone villages, and serene forest trails. Adding a couple of wine tastings to your itinerary will allow you to unwind, as you’ll find yourself breathing more easily and releasing tension in no time.

This destination is particularly suited for independent travelers seeking an authentic French experience without undue complexity. A two-day visit enables you to effectively explore its offerings without feeling hurried, allowing ample room for spontaneous experiences. Located just 40 minutes from Lyon, Beaujolais feels like a world apart from urban life, boasting a density of attractions that extends beyond its acclaimed wines.

Best Time to Visit Beaujolais

During the summer months, especially in August, temperatures can reach a pleasant 26℃ (78℉), inviting visitors to escape the city heat. However, weekend travelers should anticipate throngs of locals from Lyon seeking the refreshing countryside.

The autumn season offers an excellent opportunity to witness the wine harvest, accompanied by the stunning foliage cast over the region’s greenery. Festivities such as the Fete du Paradis and the Vendanges Musicales festival contribute to the celebratory atmosphere.

Recommended Duration

With a compact layout and well-maintained roads, even in rural areas, Beaujolais can be effectively explored in two days by car. This allows sufficient time to discover quaint villages and detour to various notable wineries along the way.

For those seeking a more extended experience, a longer stay provides the opportunity to uncover the often-overlooked treasures of Beaujolais Vert, which includes superb hiking paths, a UNESCO Global Geopark, and a myriad of outdoor pursuits to engage in.

Navigating Beaujolais

For international visitors, Lyon serves as the primary gateway to the region. From central Lyon, Beaujolais can be reached by train in approximately 40 minutes or by car in 45 minutes, making it a popular weekend retreat for Lyon residents. Regular train services also connect Lyon with other major cities like Paris and Geneva.

While public transportation facilitates access to the region, further exploration requires personal initiative. Car rentals are available at Lyon’s airport, Villefranche-sur-Saone station, or Macon station. Increasingly popular bike tours, particularly those with electric bicycles, provide an enjoyable means to navigate the rolling terrain.

Tour operators like Semita Tours offer guided experiences that showcase vineyards and villages while providing wine tastings, allowing access to the rural trails less traveled by the average tourist.

Must-See Attractions

Unique Wine-Tasting Experiences

With over 2,000 winemakers representing 12 appellations, you will have an abundance of options for wine tastings. History enthusiasts may appreciate Château de la Chaize, which features the longest wine cellar in Beaujolais and splendid gardens designed by the gardener of Versailles. Similarly, Château de Corcelles pairs wine tastings with a guided tour of the castle—once a medieval stronghold and now a picturesque venue for events.

For a unique experience, partake in a wine tasting paired with a picnic in the vineyards at Domaine de Montmelas. Here, you can enjoy a bottle of your preferred wine alongside locally crafted salads, terrine, and praline tart.

For a breathtaking view, consider an aperitif experience atop the 18th-century Tower of Oingt, where you can dine while taking in panoramic vistas of the region’s rolling hills. Wine tasting is, of course, included.

Touring Villages

Idyllic villages serve as the heart and soul of France, and Beaujolais is no exception. Oingt shines brightly, recognized as one of France’s most beautiful villages. Moreover, it hosts fourteen artists who inhabit the hillside town, many of whom offer workshops for visitors to witness their craft firsthand or explore their completed works. From authentic Japanese kintsugi to artisan jewelry, a wide array of creations can be found here.

Another notable village is Ternand, a charming medieval settlement classified as a historic monument, prominently featuring the remnants of a 12th-century castle that overlooks the surrounding vineyards. Nature enthusiasts should consider stopping at Fleurie, where you can find accessible hiking and cycling trails, as well as stunning landscapes that may reveal Mont Blanc on particularly clear days.

Explore the Forests of Vert Beaujolais

While Beaujolais is known for its wine, the natural beauty of Vert Beaujolais should not be overlooked. This expansive area occupies the entire western side of the region and boasts walking trails, including the family-friendly Forêt des Expériences (the forest of experiences).

For those seeking a greater challenge, Mont Saint Rigaud—affectionately known as the Roof of the Rhône as it is the highest point in the area—features marked trails for hiking and a spring where you can hydrate along the way. If you prefer, you can drive most of the route to the summit, where an observation tower awaits.

For a refreshing retreat, Lac des Sapins offers a beach, climbing park, and activities such as archery and mountain biking.

Dining and Lodging Options

Le Café Terroir Chez Saint-Cyr has recently opened in 2024 and features a successful sibling restaurant in Lyon, renowned for its rotisserie meats served for two, including roasted pistachio sausage.

La Table du Donjon is a beloved family establishment located on the hillside of Oingt village, offering hearty French cuisine complemented by breathtaking sunset views.

Beurre Noisette presents a weekly changing menu, providing a delightful yet affordable dining experience (three courses for €32) that attracts a weekend crowd.

Le Clos Zélie is a welcoming family-run B&B characterized by the region’s iconic golden stone architecture. Features include an on-site pool, and yes, they produce their own wine.

Estimated Costs

Beaujolais presents an excellent value for wine enthusiasts, especially when compared to its neighboring region, Bordeaux.

While credit cards are generally accepted, carrying cash is advisable for smaller transactions like coffee purchases.

• Basic room for two: €60-90

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): €55-110

• Coffee: €4

• Dinner for two in a mid-tier restaurant: €100

• Glass of wine: €5-10

• Bottle of wine from region: €10-30

• Wine-tasting: €10-30