Discover the captivating Northern Cotes du Rhone region on a small-group wine tour departing from Lyon. This full-day excursion promises an intimate exploration of the area’s renowned winemaking traditions, guided by an expert who’ll unveil the secrets behind the celebrated Syrah and Viognier grape varietals. Prepare to savor 17-18 exquisite wines at three carefully selected wineries, all while enjoying the region’s stunning natural landscapes. With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour offers a truly personalized experience that’ll leave you with a deeper appreciation for France’s extraordinary wine culture.
Key Points
- Comprehensive full-day small-group wine tour from Lyon exploring the Northern Cotes du Rhone region, including visits to three wineries and tastings of 17-18 wines.
- Guided tour focused on iconic grape varietals like Syrah and Viognier, with insights into the region’s winemaking traditions and terroir.
- Comfortable air-conditioned transportation and knowledgeable English and French-speaking guide, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience.
- Scenic drives offering panoramic views of the Cotes du Rhone countryside, setting the stage for immersive winery visits.
- Accessible for most travelers, with limitations for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions; booking flexibility with free cancellation.
Tour Overview
The Cotes du Rhone Wine Tour is a full-day small-group excursion from Lyon, France that runs from 9:00 am to 5:15 pm.
This tour takes visitors to the Northern Cotes du Rhone wine-growing region, providing panoramic views in Vienne and an introduction to the region’s signature grape varietals.
Travelers will visit the birthplace of Syrah and Cotes Rotie vineyards, touring three wineries and tasting 17-18 wines, including Cotes Roti, Syrah, and Viognier.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers and has received 16 reviews with a 5.0 overall rating.
An English and French-speaking guide is provided, and transportation is via an air-conditioned minibus.
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Itinerary Highlights
Scenic drives transport visitors from Lyon to the Northern Cotes du Rhone wine region, offering panoramic views in Vienne and an introduction to the area’s signature grape varietals.
The tour then visits the birthplace of Syrah, exploring the renowned Cotes Rotie vineyards. Guests will tour three wineries, tasting 17-18 wines, including the region’s iconic Cotes Roti, Syrah, and Viognier.
Though lunch isn’t included, there are convenient dining options available at participants’ own expense.
This immersive experience allows visitors to explore the rich history and exceptional quality of the Cotes du Rhone appellation, without the hassle of driving and navigation.
Transportation and Guide
An air-conditioned minibus provides comfortable transportation for the tour, allowing guests to avoid the hassles of driving and navigation. The English and French-speaking guide handles all the details, ensuring a seamless experience for participants.
Service Provided | Description |
---|---|
Transportation | Air-conditioned minibus |
Language Support | English and French-speaking guide |
Navigation | Guide handles all the details |
Comfort | Comfortable travel experience |
Convenience | Avoid driving and navigation hassles |
The tour’s dedicated guide is instrumental in making the day an enjoyable and hassle-free experience for all.
Accessibility and Recommendations
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s located near public transportation. It’s also not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions, though most travelers can participate.
The wineries and vineyards visited may have uneven terrain or steps, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues. While the tour can accommodate a range of fitness levels, individuals with certain health conditions should consult with their medical providers before booking.
The tour’s guided nature and air-conditioned transportation, however, make it accessible for most visitors seeking an immersive Cotes du Rhone wine experience. Travelers are advised to consider their personal capabilities when deciding if this tour is the right fit.
Booking Information
Booking the Cotes du Rhone Wine Tour is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts and a lowest price guarantee.
Travelers can also opt for a reserve now and pay later option.
The meeting point is at the Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de la Métropole de Lyon, located on Pl. Bellecour in Lyon, France. This allows for convenient and hassle-free arrangements for the tour.
Guests can confidently plan their visit, secure in the knowledge that they can make adjustments if needed.
With these booking options, the Cotes du Rhone Wine Tour provides a seamless experience from start to finish, ensuring travelers can fully enjoy the scenic wine region.
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Wine Tasting Experiences
Visiting the wineries along the Cotes du Rhone tour provides travelers with a unique opportunity to enjoy the region’s rich winemaking traditions, uncovering the intricacies behind renowned varietals like Syrah and Viognier.
During the tour, guests will enjoy an in-depth exploration of three different wineries, sampling a total of 17-18 wines.
From the crisp, floral Viognier to the bold, peppery Cotes Rotie, each tasting offers a chance to appreciate the nuances that make these wines so distinctive.
With an expert guide on hand to share insights, travelers can delve deeper into the history, production methods, and flavor profiles that define the acclaimed wines of the Cotes du Rhone region.
Scenic Drive and Vistas
The scenic drive from Lyon to the Northern Cotes du Rhone region offers travelers panoramic views and an introduction to the area’s renowned grape varietals.
As the minibus winds through the picturesque countryside, guests will be treated to stunning vistas of the rolling hills and valleys that characterize this renowned winemaking area.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into the region’s history and the unique terroir that gives the local wines their distinctive character.
This scenic journey sets the stage for the immersive winery visits to come, whetting participants’ appetites for the exceptional Cotes Rotie, Syrah, and Viognier wines they’ll have the opportunity to sample firsthand.
Regional Grape Varietals
The tour explores the rich diversity of grape varietals that thrive in the Cotes du Rhone region, with a focus on the iconic Syrah and Viognier.
Syrah, the signature red grape, is known for producing full-bodied, deeply colored wines with notes of blackberry, pepper, and spice. In contrast, Viognier, the primary white grape, yields aromatic wines with flavors of apricot, honeysuckle, and citrus.
The tour provides an in-depth introduction to these regional specialties, allowing participants to savor their distinct characteristics and understand how the terroir shapes their unique profiles.
Through visits to local wineries, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the winemaking traditions that have flourished in this storied French wine region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour does not have a formal dress code. Visitors should dress comfortably in casual attire suitable for a day of wine tasting and moderate walking. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Is Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?
The information provided does not indicate whether gratuity is included in the tour price. Gratuity for the tour guide is typically not included and is at the discretion of the participants.
Can I Purchase Wine on the Tour?
Yes, participants can purchase wine on the tour. The tour includes visits to 3 wineries where travelers can sample and purchase wines from the Cotes du Rhone region, such as Cotes Rotie, Syrah, and Viognier.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Travelers can reserve now and pay later for added flexibility when planning their trip.
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Dietary-Restricted Lunch?
Though lunch is not included in the tour price, the guide can likely provide recommendations for vegetarian or dietary-restricted options nearby. It’s best to inquire about any special requests when booking the tour.
Recap
This small-group Cotes du Rhone wine tour from Lyon offers a delightful and immersive experience for wine enthusiasts.
Visitors will explore the stunning Northern Cotes du Rhone region, visit three renowned wineries, and sample a vast array of exquisite wines, all while enjoying panoramic views and gaining insights from an expert guide.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, this intimate excursion promises a memorable journey through France’s renowned wine culture.
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