If you’re planning to set off on the Beaujolais wine route while visiting France, you’re in luck. Winalist’s team is mostly based in France and has extensive knowledge of the wine regions there. Together, we have prepared the best itinerary to discover the Beaujolais wine destination.
Your 2 days itinerary to discover Beaujolais
Beaujolais is one of France’s most beautiful winegrowing regions, much alike Piedmont in Italy. Most beaujolais wines are red and made using the Gamay grape, which has notoriously thin skin, thus the wines are often light-bodied and acidic. Discover more about Beaujolais wineries and all of the magic that awaits you there in our dedicated article and import our interactive map onto your cell phone for even easier use.
The following itinerary has been created from South to North but you can choose to do it the way you wish, whether you’re arriving from Paris to Lyon by train (see tickets here), driving there or whether you’re coming from Burgundy (further north).
Villefranche-sur-Saône
This medieval town is rich in history and architecture, featuring cobblestone streets and timber-framed houses. You’ll find several wine cellars where you can taste the region’s wines. Make sure to stop by the covered market to sample local products and don’t forget to visit the Notre-Dame des Marais collegiate church, an architectural gem of the city. Discover all the tours and wine tastings in Villefranche-Sur-Saone.
Saint Julien
Continue your journey to Saint Julien. This village is famous for producing Saint-Julien wines, but also for its historical heritage. You’ll find the Château de Saint Trys there, a historically listed monument, offering a panoramic view over the Saône Valley. The wines of Saint Julien are renowned for their balance and finesse. Head over to Blacé for a gourmet stroll through the romantic gardens of the Château de Champ-Renard, accompanied by a picnic.
Brouilly
Continue your journey to Brouilly, a renowned cru known for the quality of its wines. Here, Gamay grape varieties thrive on granite soils, producing Brouilly wines with aromas of red and black fruits. The region is also famous for Mont Brouilly, a volcanic hill that dominates the landscape. Its summit is crowned with a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site for the area’s winemakers.
Stop along the way to discover the wonderful Estate of Chateau de la Chaize and follow in the footsteps of the Marquis de Montaigu through a tour of the Chateau’s surroundings, its gardens, as well as the estate’s winery and historic cellar.
Just a bit further, you can also indulge in a culinary break in Cercié and visit the Maison Jambon winery, followed by a wine tasting and a Beaujolais “mâchon” (a traditional light meal).
Régnié
Régnié wines are renowned in the Beaujolais region, produce in the area spanning the towns of Régnié-Durette and Lantignié. Régnié, like the other ten Beaujolais crus, offers a unique and beautiful expression of the Gamay grape, with a vibrant color ranging from cherry to ruby. Nice place to stop by.
Morgon
Morgon is famous for its robust and structured wines. A cellar tour and wine tasting in Morgon is a must-do for if you appreciate full-bodied wines and miss it since the beginning of this trip. The village also marks the start of several hiking trails through the areas known as the famous “Morgon.”
Beaujeu
Continue to Beaujeu, the ancient capital of the Lords of Beaujeu and the true cradle of the region’s wine. Here, traditions blend with history. Enjoy a guided tour at the Musée du Terroir to dive into the region’s wine past. Also, discover its Saint-Nicolas church and the Beaujolais terroir house to learn about the different appellations.
Visit Domaine Frédéric Berne, true artisan winemakers in Beaujolais, for an exceptional tour, walk, and tasting that will teach you a great deal about the region and its winemaking expertise. Book your cellar tour at no cost:
Chiroubles, for the best view
With its exceptional view from the church’s terrace, Chiroubles is a must-visit.
This village, the highest of all the crus, offers wines of great finesse. The vineyards there are primarily composed of granite soils, giving Chiroubles wines their unique and distinctive character. The vines are terraced, maximizing sun exposure and optimizing grape maturation.
In Chiroubles, don’t miss to visit Christophe Savoye wine estate to meet passionate winemakers:
Fleurie
Beaujolais Fleurie is known as “the most feminine of wines” from its region. This famous wine designation mainly covers the commune of Fleurie, whose hillside panorama covered with vine shoots offers views of the Saône valley up to the outskirts of Mont-Blanc on clear days.
There you should visit the Château des Bachelards wine estate and get to discover (if you don’t already know it) the main principles of biodynamic viticulture:
You can then make a detour to Hameau Duboeuf, largest wine park in Europe, perfect for exploring the world of vineyards and wine with family. You’ll be able to educate yourself about winemakers’ craft through exhibits and audiovisual shows, and cap off the visit with a tasting of 4 wines from different appellations. Book your ticket now:
Moulin à vent
If you’re looking to learn more about Moulin-a-vent wines in a fun way, consider taking a detour to Romanèche-Thorins to visit the famous mill that we often see in photos of the region.
There, don’t forget to visit the Moulin à vent Château for a rich experience and a discover of the Beaujolais terroir!
Juliénas
Here, the history of wine intertwines with that of the Romans. Juliénas gets its name from Julius Caesar, and Roman ruins are plentiful. The Julienas wines are known for their structure and aging potential. Visit the Romanesque church or stroll through the narrow streets to feel the soul of this village.
During your visit to the city, take the opportunity to explore the vast and magnificent cellars of the Château de Juliénas:
Saint-Amour-Bellevue
Saint-Amour-Bellevue, with its evocative name, is the perfect spot for couples seeking romance. Enjoy a stroll through the vineyards before indulging in a wine tasting at one of the village’s estates. Nestled in the heart of Beaujolais, Saint-Amour-Bellevue offers an unforgettable experience for nature and wine lovers.
The lush vineyards, stretching as far as the eye can see, are a feast for the senses. They provide a spectacular view, especially during the harvest months when the ripe grape clusters are ready to be picked. The village itself is an architectural gem, with its stone houses and cobblestone streets. It’s easy to get lost in its narrow lanes, discovering hidden treasures along the way. The Saint-Amour church, with its colorful stained glass and pointed bell tower, is a must-visit. Saint-Amour is the most northern of
the Beaujolais crus, making it a unique destination for wine aficionados. Its position offers a slightly cooler climate, which contributes to the distinct flavor profile of its wines. This quaint village is not just a treat for the palate but a journey back in time, with its well-preserved buildings and historic charm. Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover or simply looking for a picturesque escape, Saint-Amour-Bellevue embodies the essence of French countryside romance, tailored to enchant American visitors with its storybook setting and exceptional wines.