Welcome to Beaujolais, a corner of France where life seems to sing between rows of vines and picturesque villages. Here, wine isn't just a drink, it's an invitation to explore, meet and share. Beaujolais is also about rolling green hills, historic sites that tell the story of centuries of history, and living traditions that keep the heart of this unique region beating. In this article, we take a look at the 15 must-sees in Beaujolais, magical places that promise unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a wine lover, history buff or simply looking for breathtaking scenery, follow us on a journey that will delight all your senses.
1- The Beaujolais Wine Route
The Beaujolais Wine Route takes you through an undulating landscape of vineyards and villages. This route is a real invitation to explore the richness and diversity of the region's wines, stopping for tastings directly with the producers. Each stop along the way is an opportunity to meet the winemakers, who generously share their passion and knowledge. Wine lovers, whether neophytes or connoisseurs, will discover unique flavors that bear witness to the richness of the Beaujolais terroir. The Beaujolais Wine Route promises a memorable adventure of breathtaking scenery and shared moments, punctuated by surprising discoveries and gustatory pleasures. Find out more about the Wine Route in our dedicated article! Opt for a beaujolais wine tour and taste wines in all their diversity!
2- Beaujolais Geopark
The Beaujolais Geopark is an open window on the history of the Earth, classified by UNESCO for its exceptional geological wealth. Through its trails, villages and remarkable sites, the park offers a multitude offascinating stories about the rocks, fossils and geological phenomena that have sculpted this region. Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in an educational journey, enhanced by breathtaking views and enriching encounters. The promise of adventure and discovery makes the Beaujolais Geopark a must-see destination for all those seeking to enrich their knowledge of the natural world.
3- Ternand
Ternand is a village that captivates with its authenticity and old-world charm. Surrounded by vineyards and nature, it seems suspended in time, with its narrow cobbled streets and medieval houses. It's the perfect place for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and immerse themselves in a peaceful setting. Visitors can explore the well-preserved architectural heritage, including the Romanesque church and the remains of the fortified castle, giving access to panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. To visit Ternand is to take a trip back in time and reconnect with the history of the Beaujolais region.
4- Beaujeu
Beaujeu is more than just a village; it's the historic cradle of this renowned wine region. Steeped in history, Beaujeu captivates visitors with its authentic atmosphere and rich heritage. Here, winegrowing traditions mingle with daily life, offering visitors a unique experience. The weekly market and local festivities, including the famous Sarmentelles festival, immerse visitors in the convivial atmosphere that characterizes Beaujolais. The village offers a complete immersion in Beaujolais culture and traditions. All in all, an enriching getaway for lovers of wine, history and authentic encounters.
5- Mont Brouilly
Mont Brouilly rises in the middle of the Beaujolais region, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. This mountain, with its summit accessible by hikers, is a symbol of the region. Its varied terrain and slopes attract not only wine lovers, for the wineries that surround it, but also hikers and cyclists, seduced by its landscapes and challenges. From the top of Mont Brouilly, you can see a sea of vines, villages and, on a clear day, the Alps on the horizon. Discover Mont Brouilly on a guided guided bike tour !
6- Belleville Hôtel Dieu
Belleville Hôtel Dieu is a former hospital. Transformed into a museum, it tells the story of centuries of care and dedication to local communities. Visitors can discover remarkable architecture, rooms preserved in their original state, and an impressive collection of antique medical objects. But Belleville Hôtel Dieu is also a place of culture, hosting temporary exhibitions that blend art, history and science. Strolling through its corridors and gardens is a unique experience, offering an in-depth look at the evolution of medicine and the social role of hospitals over time.
7- Carrières de Glay
The Carrières de Glay, located in the southern Beaujolais region, are an outstanding natural site. Thisformer quarrying site for yellow stone, which has shaped local architecture for centuries, is now a unique place for discovery and walking. Visitors can admire the impressive stone walls, evidence of human activity, while enjoying an unspoilt natural setting, rich in specific flora and fauna. The Carrières de Glay also offer an exceptional panorama of the region, with views of vineyards and golden stone villages. A walk around the quarries plunges you into a world apart, where industrial heritage meets nature.
8- Clochemerle
Clochemerle is famous for being the fictional village of a satirical novel that captured the essence of French rural life with humor and insight. But what attracts visitors to Clochemerle is very real: a charming village that seems to embrace the anecdotes and character described in the book. Lovers of literature and history come to explore its alleyways, discover the places that inspired memorable scenes, and immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere that the novel made famous. Literature aside, Clochemerle's charm lies in its winegrowing heritage, its panoramic views over the Beaujolais countryside, and its warm welcome typical of small French villages.
9- Fleurie
Fleurie is a village that immediately evokes elegance and finesse, just like the renowned wines that bear its name. This charming village is surrounded by rolling countryside, covered with vineyards that produce some of the region's best-loved crus. Fleurie attracts wine lovers from all over the world to sample its delicate, fragrant nectars, as well as those who love nature and traditional architecture. Visitors can stroll through its peaceful streets, discover its 19th-century church and enjoy magnificent views of Mont Brouilly. Fleurie embodies the quintessential French art de vivre, where conviviality and sharing are always the order of the day.
10- Le Hameau Duboeuf
Le Hameau Duboeuf, often referred to as the first oenopark in Beaujolais, is a celebration of vines and wine in all their forms. This unique theme park immerses visitors in the world of viticulture and winemaking through exhibits, themed gardens and even a vineyard mini-golf course. Visitors of all ages can discover the secrets of wine-making, from the history of the vine to tasting and the art of cooperage. It's an enriching and entertaining experience, perfect for families, wine lovers, or anyone curious to immerse themselves in French wine culture, all in a fun and welcoming setting. Find out more about Romanèche-Thorins here!
11- Oingt
Oingt, classified as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France", is a pearl of the Beaujolais region, offering visitors a plunge into a medieval setting. Perched on a hill and built entirely of golden stone, this village exudes charm and authenticity. A stroll through its narrow streets reveals architectural treasures, artisan workshops and breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Oingt is not only a feast for the eyes, but also a place steeped in history, bearing witness to the region's rich past. Discover other magnificent medieval villages in France! Set off from Lyon on a beaujolais wine tour including Oingt!
12- Mont Saint Rigaud
Mont Saint Rigaud stands as the highest point in Beaujolais, offering those who reach its summit a breathtaking panoramic view of the region and, on a clear day, far beyond. The mountain is a call to adventure for hikers, offering various trails through forests and meadows, where local flora and fauna can be observed in their element. At the summit, the observation tower marks the highest point and serves as a beacon for explorers. Mont Saint Rigaud isn't just a physical challenge, it's a spiritual experience, offering calm and serenity away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
13- Terrace de Chiroubles
The Terrace de Chiroubles offers an unforgettable visual and sensory experience in the heart of the Beaujolais region. This exceptional site, a veritable balcony overlooking the vineyards, invites contemplation and relaxation. From this natural terrace, you can lose yourself in the immensity of the wine-growing landscape. It's a popular vantage point from which to embrace a large part of the Beaujolais region, offering a breathtaking natural spectacle. To stop for a moment on this terrace is to take a break of pure beauty, where time seems suspended above the vines.
14- Villefranche-sur-Saône
Villefranche-sur-Saône is the vibrant heart of Beaujolais, a town that harmoniously blends history, culture and conviviality. With its lively streets, boutiques and covered market renowned for its local produce, the town invites you to discover the region's flavors and know-how. Villefranche-sur-Saône also boasts a rich architectural heritage, with historic buildings that tell the story of its flourishing past. It's an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding vineyards, but also a lively and festive place, where cultural events and wine-making traditions meet throughout the year.
15- Les Pierres Dorées
The Pierres Dorées are the soul of Beaujolais, named for the warm, luminous color of the limestone used to build the region's villages. Buildings, churches and houses in golden hues glisten in the sunlight, forming landscapes of spellbinding beauty sometimes reminiscent of Tuscany. It's an experience rich in color and emotion, offering not only exceptional panoramas but also a plunge into the heart of Beaujolais culture and traditions. Les Pierres Dorées is the reflection of a proud terroir and a region that constantly invites travel and discovery.
If the villages of Beaujolais appeal to you, then you'll also love our Top 25 most beautiful villages in France in 2024!
Discover the hottest activities in Beaujolais:
Which villages to visit in Beaujolais?
- Oingt: This village is famous for its golden stone architecture and spectacular views of the Beaujolais mountains. It is classified as one of France's most beautiful villages.
- Ternand: An enchanting medieval village on the Route des Vins, known for its ramparts, Romanesque church and half-timbered houses.
- Beaujeu: Often referred to as the historic capital of Beaujolais, it is famous for its rich heritage and the Sarmentelles festival celebrating Beaujolais Nouveau.
How do you celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau?
Celebrating Beaujolais Nouveau is a festive tradition that celebrates the arrival of the first wine of the annual Beaujolais harvest.
- Organize an evening of wine-tasting: Invite friends to an evening where Beaujolais Nouveau is in the spotlight. Offer different vintages to compare flavors, or mix with other wines for a broader tasting evening.
- Pairing food and wine: Beaujolais Nouveau goes well with many dishes. Prepare French specialties like coq au vin, charcuterie, cheese or even a Savoyard fondue to accompany the wine.
- Participatein a local event: Many cities around the world celebrate the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau with festivals and events. Look for events in your area or at a local French restaurant.
What are the 12 crus of Beaujolais?
- Saint-Amour: Often floral and fruity, ideal for romantic occasions.
- Juliénas: Rich in tannins, it offers aromas of red fruits and spices.
- Chénas: The rarest of crus, known for its complex structure and woody notes.
- Moulin-à-Vent: Among the most famous, renowned for its ageing capacity thanks to its robustness.
- Fleurie: Known for its violet fragrance, it is elegant and velvety.
- Chiroubles: The lightest of the crus, with floral notes and pleasant freshness.
- Morgon: Renowned for its black cherry flavors and ageing potential.
- Régnié: The last officially recognized cru, appreciated for its fruitiness and suppleness.
- Côte de Brouilly: Cultivated on the slopes of Mont Brouilly, it has a fine minerality.
- Brouilly: The largest cru in terms of production, with generously fruity wines.
- Beaujolais-Villages: Although technically not a "cru", it represents a step up in quality from standard Beaujolais.
- Beaujolais Nouveau: Not a cru, but an annual tradition of rapid vinification to celebrate the new harvest.
Where can you find green Beaujolais?
Beaujolais Vert, also known as Haut Beaujolais, is located in the north-western part of the Beaujolais region. This area is characterized by its rolling, green landscapes, in contrast to the more southerly areas dominated by vineyards. Beaujolais Vert is more rural and less known for viticulture than other parts of Beaujolais. It offers an ideal environment for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking and fishing, thanks to its dense forests and numerous waterways. The region is also rich in cultural and historical heritage, with many small traditional villages to discover.
