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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

France

Nearby Destinations

Lyon: A short journey from southern Beaujolais, Lyon is a gastronomic hub. Regional trains (TER) connect Villefranche-sur-Saône directly to Lyon Part-Dieu and Perrache. Exploring Lyon independently is simple due to its public transport system. A full day, or more, unveils Lyon's many sights.

Mâcon (Burgundy): North of Beaujolais, Mâcon is a quick train or car ride. A half-day to full-day trip, it offers a town center and scenic Saône River walks. Mâcon is a gateway to the Mâconnais wine region of Burgundy, known for its Chardonnay wines.

Suggested Itineraries

  • Explore Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon), an UNESCO site with Renaissance architecture and traboules.
  • Visit the Fourvière Basilica for city views and nearby Roman theaters.
  • Wander through the Presqu'île, with its elegant squares and shops.
  • Explore Mâcon's town center, the Hôtel-Dieu, and venture into Mâconnais vineyards.

Natural Escapes

Discover natural landscapes beyond the vineyards.

Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat

Located south of Lyon, the Pilat Regional Natural Park presents a striking contrast to Beaujolais vineyards with its mountains, deep forests, and river valleys.

Activities

  • Extensive hiking and cycling opportunities on marked trails.
  • Explore charming hamlets and enjoy forest walks.
  • Discover scenic viewpoints throughout the park.

Gorges de l'Ardèche

Further south, these dramatic limestone canyons carved by the Ardèche River are a natural wonder. The "Pont d'Arc," a natural rock arch, is a famous landmark.

Activities

  • Canoeing or kayaking down the river.
  • Hiking along the canyon rim.
  • Exploring numerous caves within the gorges.

Cultural Excursions

Pérouges

  • A beautifully preserved medieval fortified village.
  • Wander through cobbled streets and artisan shops.
  • Taste the traditional "galette de Pérouges" (a local sweet pancake).
  • A popular film set due to its authentic medieval look.

Cluny Abbey

  • Visit the remnants of a significant medieval abbey in Europe.
  • A car journey of about 1 hour from northern Beaujolais.
  • Allow a half-day to full-day for this trip.
  • Roanne: Home to Maison Troisgros, a legendary Michelin three-star restaurant.

Multi-Day Extensions

  • Burgundy Wine Region:2-3 days
  • Explore Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards, Beaune, and Dijon.Train accessible from Mâcon or Dijon.
  • Rhône Valley Wine Region:1-2 days
  • Discover Syrah and Viognier wines south of Lyon.Accessible by train from Lyon.
  • Annecy and the French Alps:2-3 days
  • Enjoy mountain scenery, clear lakes, and charming alpine towns.Direct trains from Lyon to Annecy.
  • Wine Lover's Route:Beaujolais to Burgundy, then Rhône.
  • Nature & Culture Blend:Beaujolais, Pilat, Ardèche, Alps.

Travel Tip:

Plan visits to smaller, family-run wine domains in advance by calling or emailing to confirm availability for tastings.

Multi-Day Extension Details

Beaujolais serves as a starting point for broader regional explorations.

Burgundy Wine Region

Add 2-3 days to your journey for Burgundy, a prestigious wine region known for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Visit Beaune and Dijon.

Rhône Valley Wine Region

Consider 1-2 days for the northern Rhône Valley, famous for Syrah (Côte-Rôtie) and Viognier (Condrieu) wines.

Annecy and the French Alps

Allow 2-3 days for breathtaking mountain landscapes, clear lakes, and charming alpine towns like Annecy.

Wine Lover's Route

Start in Beaujolais, then journey north to Burgundy (Mâconnais, Côte d'Or), potentially east to Jura, or south from Lyon into the Northern Rhône for a diverse wine experience.

Highlights

  • Seamless transition between renowned wine regions.
  • Sample a wide array of wines, from Beaujolais to Grand Crus.
  • Convenient train connections between major wine hubs.

Nature & Culture Blend

Combine Beaujolais' vineyards and golden stone villages with hiking in the Monts du Beaujolais. Then head towards the Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat, Ardèche Gorges, or the French Alps for dramatic landscapes.

Experiences

  • Explore diverse terrains, from vineyards to mountains and gorges.
  • Discover regional natural parks and stunning geological formations.
  • Capture scenic beauty, from rolling hills to alpine vistas.

Transportation for Extensions

To Burgundy:Train from Beaujolais (Villefranche-sur-Saône or Mâcon) to Dijon or Beaune.
Within Burgundy:Car rental or specialized wine tours recommended.
To Rhône Valley:Easily accessible by train from Lyon.
To Annecy/Alps:Direct trains from Lyon to Annecy.
For Pilat/Ardèche:Car is the best transport option.
General Tip:Combine train travel for city-to-city and car rental for rural explorations.

Eco-Friendly Approach:

  • Choose trains over flights for domestic travel within France.
  • Embrace cycling and walking through vineyards and villages.
  • Consider an electric bike for assistance on hills.
  • Offset flight emissions through reputable carbon offset programs like Terrapass.
  • Look for accommodations with "Green " (Clé Verte) certifications.

Additional Excursions

Extend your journey with diverse experiences across the region.

Further Cultural Insights

Explore Roanne, known for its culinary excellence. Visit the Maison Troisgros for a high-end gastronomic experience.

Experiences in Roanne

  • Dine at the legendary Michelin three-star Maison Troisgros.
  • Experience unparalleled gastronomic artistry.
  • About an hour's drive west of Beaujolais.

Historical Perspectives

Visit Cluny Abbey for a glimpse into Europe's monastic past. The site was once among the largest and most influential medieval abbeys.

At Cluny Abbey

  • Explore the impressive remains of the abbey.
  • Discover the on-site museum.
  • Wander through the charming town of Cluny.

Natural Wonders Nearby

The Gorges de l'Ardèche offers dramatic limestone canyons. The "Pont d'Arc" is a natural rock arch that welcomes visitors to this scenic area.

Activities in Ardèche

  • Canoeing or kayaking on the Ardèche River.
  • Hiking along the canyon's edge.
  • Enjoy scenic views and cave exploration.

Parkland Exploration

Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat, south of Lyon, contrasts Beaujolais with its mountains and deep forests. It is a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Within Pilat Park

  • Extensive biking trails cater to all levels.
  • Peaceful forest walks provide a tranquil escape.
  • Discover charming small villages nestled in the landscape.

Itinerary Planning

Consider combining Beaujolais with other regions for a varied and enriching journey.

Wine Lovers

Extend your trip north to Burgundy or south to the Rhône Valley for diverse wine experiences.

Culture Enthusiasts

Focus on Pérouges, Cluny Abbey, and Roanne for historical and culinary insights.

Nature Seekers

Venture into Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat or the Gorges de l'Ardèche for outdoor pursuits.

Booking Experiences:

For pre-booked tours and activities, consider platforms such as GetYourGuide.

Planning Your Journey

Optimize your travel with thoughtful planning for multi-day trips.

Extended Regional Travel

1

Wine Lover's Route

Beaujolais, then Burgundy (Mâconnais, Côte d'Or), and potentially Jura or the Northern Rhône Valley. A comprehensive wine journey.

2

Nature & Culture Blend

Combine Beaujolais' vineyards and villages with hiking in Monts du Beaujolais, then explore Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat, Ardèche Gorges, or the French Alps.

3

Alpine Wonders

Journey east towards Annecy and the French Alps for spectacular mountain scenery, lake activities, and charming towns.

Considerations

  • Transportation: Trains connect major cities. Consider car rental for rural exploration.
  • Time Allocation: Plan sufficient days for each region to truly experience its offerings.
  • Accommodation: Book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
  • Activities: Research and pre-book tours or tastings.
  • Flexibility: While planning helps, allow for spontaneous discoveries.
  • Local Insight: Consult local tourist offices for current information.

Benefiting Local Economies

  • Stay in family-run B&Bs and gîtes.
  • Purchase from local artisans and markets.
  • Dine at traditional regional restaurants.
  • Buy wine directly from independent, family-owned wineries.
  • Use local service providers for taxis and bike rentals.
  • Attend local cultural events and festivals.

Partnering for Your Journey

Activity Bookings

Discover and book a variety of day trips and excursions through GetYourGuide.

Flight Compensation

For flight delays or cancellations, explore compensation options with Compensair.

Lounge Access

Enjoy airport lounge access globally with Priority Pass.

Local Engagement:

Your choices when spending money directly shape the Beaujolais economy. Support independent and family-owned businesses.
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