• FREEDOM OF Beaujolais

• Choice of self-catering holiday rentals

• April - October

• Beautifully restored historic properties in different parts of the Beaujolais

• From: £125 p/p

• grade explained

• A week long independent Self catering Walking Holiday in the Beaujolais region of France. A choice of walks through historic villages, world famous vineyards, breathtaking ridges and hills, plus lots more to see and do in the area such as visiting Lyon - a world heritage city. A number of other activities are also possible including cycling and mountain biking
• Possibility of rental periods as short as 2 nights outside of the main holiday season (not June, July, August or early September) Please contact us for more information

• Picturesque rolling countryside with summits around 1000m providing exceptional views over the valleys carpeted in vines
• A choice of walks in a series of different regions with their own distinct character
• A choice of historic properties each with their own distinctive charm
• A region known for its wine and its gastronomic delights
• Beautiful historic villages, chateaux and churches
• Glorious autumnal colours late in the season

2. Self catering rental in renovated historic property for a week, walking maps and walking descriptions supplied to keep, welcome meal on arrival if required at Grille-Midi
3. Read more general information about our self catering independent holidays
4. Option of paying for a day's guided walking led by William Armstrong, who works for High Point Holidays from his base in the Beaujolais.

1. Travel to Beaujolais, insurance, food (except welcome meal), any extra costs - entrance fees, guided walking etc

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Walking Profile

The walks on this independent walking holiday vary in length and difficulty allowing you to chose walks that suit you and your interests. The Beaujolais region has an almost limitless number of possible trails which circum navigate the hills and valleys of this beautiful region. Your information pack will include suggestions for a dozen or so walks covering the best parts of the region. Most walks include some moderate ascents and descents. Lengths vary from a few kms up to around 20km. Paths are generally good, although they can be stoney and rough in places adding to the physical effort required on some walks.

Our representative William Armstrong is an experienced leader who has explored the local area in depth. As well as providing you with walking maps and notes, he will take great pleasure in giving you advice and explaining the best possible walks to suit your party. There is the option of paying for a day's guided walking (subject to availability). A selection of possible walks is listed below.

Cycling

There are a number of good cycle routes in the area. The Beaujolais would suit the keen cyclists, as most circuits would involve sizeable climbs. Away from the main roads, the routes are quiet and generally in good condition.

The area also has a large number of mountain biking trails - see our mountain biking page for more details

Selection of walks

The ridges above Perréon

This walk is an ideal introduction to the varying landscapes of the Beaujolais, with a climb up through the vineyards near Perréon within a picturesque, secluded valley. The ascent finishes on a ridge partly covered by protected moorland and pastures providing great panoramic views across the rolling hills

The French Tuscany

A gentle walk through the beautiful historic villages of the southern Beaujolais in the region of the “Golden Stones”, including Oingt (classed as one of the most beautiful villages in France), Theizé and Bagnols. Expansive landscapes reminiscent of the Tuscany hills span out in all directions.

The Grand Crus

A shorter walk amid the vines that make up the most famous Beaujolais Crus. Small hills and ridges allow you to climb above the vineyards and gain great views across the sea of grapes that spread towards the Saône.

A tour from the ancient capital

A great walk that starts and finishes at “Beaujeu” the ancient capital of Beaujolais. The path winds its way through the vines and up to the pine covered ridges above where an upland landscape of rolling hills is revealed. A tour of the ridges above allows you to experience a number of fascinating views across the Beaujolais hills.

The Azergues Valley

You can discover a number of secret treasures easily accessible from the Azergues valley by doing several small walks. Among the sights on offer are a number of fortified hill-top villages, some secluded valleys and a stand of giant Douglas pine trees - the tallest conifer trees in Europe.

An excursion into the Mont Lyonnais

In the South, the Beaujolais region merges with the hills of the Mont Lyonnais. This walk will provide you with an insight into this parallel landscape where the rows of vines are replaced by grazing cattle and fields of fruit trees. The hills offer amazing panoramic views stretching from the Massif Central to the Alps.

Le Gite de Grille Midi

Historic cottage in rural setting in the heart of the Beajolais region of France. Enclosed garden. All on ground floor. 2 bedrooms sleeping up to 6 persons. Possibility of renting extra rooms for larger groups. Wine tasting from owners vineyard

More properties to follow