Discover the Heart of Beaujolais in Burgundy, France
Nestled in the rolling hills of eastern France, the Heart of Beaujolais offers a captivating blend of rustic charm and world-class wines. This picturesque region, part of southern Burgundy, is renowned for its light, fruity red wines and stunning landscapes.
Towns and Villages
The Heart of Beaujolais is dotted with charming medieval villages and bustling market towns. Beaujeu, the historical capital, boasts narrow streets and half-timbered houses.
Villefranche-sur-Saône serves as the region’s modern capital, offering a vibrant atmosphere and excellent shopping opportunities. Don’t miss the Renaissance townhouses along Rue Nationale.
Wine Producers
The region is home to numerous family-owned wineries and larger estates. Château de Pizay in Saint-Jean-d’Ardières offers guided tours and tastings in a stunning 14th-century setting.
Domaine du Vissoux in Saint-Vérand is known for its high-quality Beaujolais and Beaujolais Villages wines. Book a tasting to sample their exceptional crus.
Accommodations
For a luxurious stay, consider Château de Bagnols, a 13th-century castle turned five-star hotel. It offers elegant rooms and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Budget-conscious travelers can opt for Le Cep d’Or in Fleurie, a charming family-run hotel surrounded by vineyards.
Dining
Indulge in regional specialties at L’Auberge du Cep in Fleurie. This Michelin-starred restaurant showcases local ingredients and an extensive wine list.
For a casual meal, try La Table du Donjon in Oingt. This bistro offers traditional Beaujolais dishes and panoramic views of the countryside.
Wine Shops & Bars
Cave du Château de Chenas offers an extensive selection of local wines. Knowledgeable staff provide personalized recommendations.
Le Caveau de Fleurie combines a wine shop with a cozy tasting room. Sample wines from various producers in a relaxed atmosphere.
Other Shops
Marché de Villefranche-sur-Saône showcases local produce, cheeses, and artisanal products. Perfect for picnic supplies.
La Maison du Terroir Beaujolais in Beaujeu sells regional specialties, including wine-infused chocolates and local crafts.
Attractions
Hameau Duboeuf in Romanèche-Thorins is a wine theme park. Interactive exhibits explain winemaking processes and regional history.
Mont Brouilly offers panoramic views of the Beaujolais vineyards. Hike to the chapel at the summit for breathtaking vistas.
Events
Beaujolais Nouveau Day (third Thursday of November) celebrates the release of new wines. Join festive parties across the region.
Les Sarmentelles in Beaujeu (November) features wine tastings, parades, and live music over five days.
Appellations
Beaujolais AOC covers the entire region, producing fruity, light-bodied reds.
Beaujolais Villages AOC represents higher quality wines from 38 specific villages. Look for these for excellent value.
Grape Varieties
Gamay reigns supreme in the Heart of Beaujolais. This thin-skinned grape produces light-bodied, fruity red wines with low tannins and high acidity.
Other varietals include Chardonnay for white wines and Pinot Noir in some areas bordering Burgundy.
Main Wine Styles
Beaujolais Nouveau, released annually on the third Thursday of November, is the region’s claim to fame. This young, fruity wine is best consumed within months of bottling.
Beaujolais Villages offers more complexity, while Cru Beaujolais from the ten designated villages provides the highest quality wines with aging potential.
Food Specialties
Pair your Beaujolais with local delicacies like Bresse chicken, known for its exceptional flavor and tender meat. Cervelle de Canut, a herbed cheese spread, is another regional favorite.
Don’t miss Andouillette, a traditional sausage, or Pralines de Lyon for a sweet treat.
Drives & Walks
Explore the Route des Vins du Beaujolais, a scenic drive through picturesque villages and rolling vineyards. Stop at wineries for tastings and enjoy panoramic views.
For hiking enthusiasts, the Sentier des Cabornes near Oingt offers a 7km trail showcasing traditional stone huts and beautiful landscapes.
Itineraries
3-Day Wine Lover’s Tour
- Day 1: Visit Brouilly and Côte de Brouilly, tasting at Château de la Chaize
- Day 2: Explore Fleurie and Moulin-à-Vent, with lunch in Romanèche-Thorins
- Day 3: Tour Juliénas and Saint-Amour, ending with a gourmet dinner in Belleville
Weekend Getaway
- Saturday: Wine tasting in Villié-Morgon, followed by a cooking class in Beaujeu
- Sunday: Visit the medieval village of Oingt, then relax at a wine spa in Vaux-en-Beaujolais
Getting There & Around
The nearest major airport is Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, about 50 km from Beaujolais. Rent a car for flexibility in exploring the region’s vineyards and villages.
Public transport options include trains to Mâcon or Villefranche-sur-Saône, with local buses connecting to smaller towns.
Best Time to Visit
Visit in September or October for the grape harvest season, offering a chance to participate in vineyard activities and local festivals.
November brings the release of Beaujolais Nouveau, while spring and summer provide ideal weather for outdoor exploration.
Sustainability Efforts
Many Beaujolais wineries are adopting organic and biodynamic practices. Look for the AB (Agriculture Biologique) certification on wine labels.
Support eco-friendly accommodations like Château de Pizay, which uses solar panels and practices water conservation.
Language Tips
Learn basic wine-related French phrases: “Je voudrais goûter ce vin” (I’d like to taste this wine) and “Quelle est votre spécialité?” (What’s your specialty?)
Download a translation app like Google Translate for on-the-go assistance in smaller villages.
Further Resources
- Official Beaujolais Tourism Website for up-to-date information on wineries and events
- Wine-Searcher’s Beaujolais Guide for detailed wine information
- Download the Route des Vins du Beaujolais app for self-guided tours and winery information
