beaujolais

There is a great deal more to the Beaujolais than its vineyards and cellars. Go beyond the rows of vines leading down to the Saone and you find yourself in a multitude of different landscapes, each with its own special character making it an ideal destination for a guided or independent walking holiday.

The Beaujolais region, located to the north and east of Lyon, is a series of elegant rolling hills summiting around 1000m above sea level. Despite the relatively gentle nature of their slopes, the scale of the peaks and the depths of the valleys create a landscape of great panoramas and rich contrasts. The character of the hills changes with altitude as the vines give way to forests and pastures.

In the far south lay the mountains of the Mont Lyonnais, which despite being geologically identical to the Beaujolais are distinct by their farming practices; the vines are replaced by meadows and fruit trees. Far from the tourist trails, these hills form some of the most stunning countryside in the area.

Further north is a region made up of about 40 parishes which is known as the “Golden stones”, so called, due to the colour of the limestone used in its historic buildings. Here you will find some of the prettiest villages in France, such as Oignt, perched on hilly promontories. Wherever you look, you'll find fortified remains, chateaux or churches adorning the vine covered slopes. The scale and gentleness of the slopes has created a sumptuous landscape of interlocking hills receding to the horizon, literally leaving you with the impression of flying over the hills. Hence this picturesque wine-growing area is often referred to as the local Tuscany.

Beyond the vineyards, the broad summits of the high Beaujolais hills are carpeted in woodland. The huge Douglas Fir has come to dominate some of these forests. By seeking out the hills and ridges between the woodland, you get spectacular views overlooking the vine covered, valley slopes. Away from the main transport routes, this upland area retains an isolated feel despite its proximity to Lyon, with farms and hamlets looking like they have not changed for centuries. Goats graze on the remote upland pastures, giving rise to some fine local cheese.

The Beaujolais is, of course, most famous for its wines. The vines adorn much of the slopes up to an altitude of 550m. There are three types of Beaujolais: the Beaujolais village, the Beaujolais classic and the 10 Beaujolais Crus. The Crus represent the finest wines and each is only grown in a very limited geographical area. Our holidays will allow you to sample their qualities and find out more about the unique methods used in growing the grapes and fermenting the wines.

As well as offering guided and independent walking holidays, we are able to provide guided day walks in the Beaujolais region of France for independent travellers. Whatever your area of interest or level of walk, we can create a day's guided walking to suit you, letting you experience more than you can find in the guide books.