Rhône Valley Private Wine Tour

This morning, your private chauffeur and luxury Mercedes will collect you at Lyon airport. Head into the beautiful old town, Vieux Lyon. Enjoy a Rhône wine masterclass before lunch at Les Toqués du Fromage, tasting flagship wines from Northern and Southern Rhône. This is an excellent introduction to the places you will be visiting and will introduce you to the variety of wine styles of this extensive region.

After the tasting, settle in for a welcome lunch then at Daniel and Denise Saint-Jean, an authentic Bouchon (typical Lyonnais bistro) in the heart of Lyon’s Renaissance UNESCO-listed quarter. This is an excellent place to get a real feel for traditional Lyon cuisine; Chef Joseph Viola creates divine Lyonnaise dishes of very generous portions, served by the most attentive, professional waiters in the adorable dining room, which naturally features all the typical “Bouchon décor”: red-checked tablecloths, copper pots and pans, wood-paneled walls, and a striking zinc-topped bar. Depending on the menu, you may find the likes of Lyonnais sausage in brioche, Bresse chicken with morel mushrooms and Saint-Marcellin from “Mère Richard.”

After lunch, your local expert guide will lead you on a walking tour of Lyon to clear your head and perk up. Lyon’s old town, or “Vieux-Lyon” as it is known locally, is one of the largest old towns in France. Although the Vieux has been threatened over the years for sanitation reasons, it has been immaculately preserved. Split into three districts named after saints, the name of whom a church or the cathedral in each district is called St Paul, St. John, and St. George.

All these are striking buildings in their own right and worth visiting. “Cathédrale Saint-Jean” St. John’s Cathedral has a beautiful, grandiose façade, although it appears somewhat “short” because its towers are unfinished. The cathedral houses the 14th-century Lyon Astronomical clock, which is genuinely remarkable. (If you happen to be visiting in December, the light festival is beautiful). The view of the city from the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière is stunning and worth the climb.

You will then settle into your immaculate and utterly delightful hotel, Cour des Loges Lyon, A Radisson Collection Hotel, and enjoy a free evening to relax or catch up on jet lag.

Hit the wine country today! At 10 am, your chauffeur will collect you for a 30-minute drive south to visit the fabulous, world famous Guigal estate. Known for its exquisite Côte-Rôtie wines, Guigal produces legendary single-vineyard cuvées alongside wines from Saint-Joseph, Condrieu, Crozes-Hermitage and Côtes du Rhône.

Then, after just a short 30-minute drive, you’ll arrive at La Pyramide for lunch, where a gourmet extravaganza awaits you. La Pyramide holds two Michelin stars in 2026, with chefs Patrick Henriroux and David Castagnet leading the restaurant. A complete contrast to yesterday’s experience, you are greeted by a much more modern contemporary affair, from the décor to the food. An intense sensory experience; discover the infinite array of colors, aromas, tastes and textures that can be relished with wines from their exquisite collection.

After an outstanding lunch, head to the historic city of Vienne, stretch your legs, see the ancient Roman theatre, and more. This city is full of Roman architecture, and probably the most impressive is the Temple in the heart of the city, almost entirely intact and dating back to the 1st Century, or the all-imposing, truly magnificent amphitheater from around 40-50 AD, which sits at the foot of Mt Pipet. It’s quite a sight and incredibly large, seating over 11,000 spectators. It is still used today during the summer Jazz festival.

Then on to your elegant Relais & Châteaux hotel, Maison Pic. You won’t be terribly hungry for dinner. A free evening to explore your captivating abode, impeccably decorated in a contemporary style, be sure to check out the enchanting gardens.

Make the most of a leisurely breakfast before your chauffeur collects you. It’s just a 20-minute drive to your first port of call, the renowned Chapoutier. These guys have been knocking out sensational wines for over 200 years and produce outstanding examples in Hermitage, Côte Rôtie, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Saint-Joseph, Crozes-Hermitage and Luberon. Biodynamic methods have been at the heart of M. Chapoutier’s philosophy since 1991. Your tasting will most likely include Le Méal (Ermitage Blanc), La Mordorée (Côte Rôtie), Le Pavillon (Ermitage Rouge) and Croix de Bois (Châteauneuf-du-Pape).

Next up is a tantalizing wine lunch at Jaboulet Vineum. It’s a heavenly lunch venue where passionate staff, including the knowledgeable sommelier, guide you through a perfectly paired seasonal menu. The kitchen changes with the seasons, with the wines of Paul Jaboulet Aîné at the centre of the pairing.

After lunch, stroll through the vineyards up to Chapelle de l’Hermitage with a local wine expert. Enjoy a vineyard walk that concludes with a private tasting at a secret gem in the Hermitage appellation.
Then, chocoholics, brace yourself because next up is a visit to the Valrhona Boutique at the Cité du Chocolat in Tain l’Hermitage, the “Rolls Royce of Chocolate.” Taste your way through the Valrhona range and pick up some fabulous gifts before heading to your gourmet hotel for a blowout dinner onsite at its three-Michelin-star restaurant, Pic.

Restaurant Pic has a history dating back to 1889 and today holds three Michelin stars under Anne-Sophie Pic. Its tasting menus evolve, so the dishes served will be confirmed as part of your personal itinerary.

After breakfast, check out of Maison Pic and continue south with your chauffeur and luggage to Vaison-la-Romaine. Visit this historic town, which adopted the name Vaison-la-Romaine in 1924 in recognition of the importance of its Gallo-Roman heritage. The town is split geographically by the river Ouvèze; on the left bank, the “high town,” as it is called, clings to a steep hill and is well worth the effort of the climb for nothing more than the breathtaking panoramic view from the top. Stroll around the cobbled streets and maybe grab a coffee in one of the picturesque squares.

From Vaison-la-Romaine, continue to the captivating Chateau Saint Cosme in Gigondas for a private tour and tasting. It is probably the most ancient estate in the region and is steeped in history. The vineyards of Gigondas climb the slopes at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, whose limestone ridges rise to around 630 metres. Big, ripe, full-bodied reds dominate here, and you will sample fantastic examples at Chateau Saint Cosme.

Lunch follows and is a fine dining affair at Côteaux et Fourchettes. This delightful restaurant is located amid a sea of vines where prestigious appellations in the Southern Rhône Valley meet, such as Cairanne, Côtes du Rhône, Rasteau, and Plan de Dieu. The atmosphere and decor is funky and contemporary, and the wine list is extensive and fascinating to peruse. A tasting menu with cheese selection will be organized for you, and you can choose the wines on your own. A little over 15 minutes away, you will visit Beaumes de Venise.

Next, this enchanting hilltop village, full of caves, makes for an enjoyable digestive stroll before you have a fun wine tasting paired with Provençal bites, such as tapenade and goat’s cheese, at Domaine de la Pigeade. The Muscat de Beaumes de Venise makes for an exciting change. This fortified wine, made from either Muscat á petits grains blanc or noir, can range in color from amber to rosé or even purple.

One last stop before heading to your hotel at the stunning Domaine Montirius; this delightful family-run vineyard oozes love and harmony. You will be personally welcomed and hosted by the owner, Christine, who will introduce you to their range of wines from various appellations, including Vacqueyras, Gigondas, and Côtes du Rhône. A real treat!

Then, a 30-minute drive to your overnight destination, Hotel D’Europe in Avignon. It’s been beautifully restored and renovated, a historic building dating back to 1580 and one of the country’s oldest hotels. It boasts a prime location both near the river and centrally located. Bon Soir!

This morning you will get to see if some of the Michelin-starred experiences you have had over the last few days have inspired your own kitchen skills, with a fun cooking workshop. Your chef will meet you and first of all take you to Avignon marketplace, where he will help you discover and select the best seasonal produce. Once at La Cuisine de Valentine Cook workshop your chef will guide you through some authentic Provençale cooking practices and give you plenty of top tips from seasoning, cooking, serving and presenting the meal. Then once ready, sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor, bon appétit!

After lunch, you will have a VIP tour of the terrific Chateau de la Nerthe; this mythical Chateau was built in 1736 and is mentioned in documents as far back as 1560. La Nerthe was already shipping wine in bottle from 1776, a pioneering practice in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and built an international reputation during the late eighteenth century. The estate has changed hands several times, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries. The Richard family acquired the estate in 1985 and began restoring its historic property and vineyards. All 13 permitted varieties are planted, producing three red and two white wines. You will hear the fascinating viticultural and vinification practices they use, ending with a tasting of their marvelous wines.

Then, before heading back to Avignon, pop into the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape itself, a pretty medieval village perched on a hill from where you can admire the luscious vineyards. Once back at your hotel, enjoy a free evening to relax or explore, guided by our recommendations.

Today, you will explore the glorious Luberon and some of its beautiful medieval hilltop villages. Your first stop is at Domaine de la Citadelle, where striking views greet you everywhere you turn, whether overlooking the vast vineyards, up to the perched village or the stunning mountain range. The wines don’t cease to impress, undoubtedly thanks to the careful vineyard parcel selection, state-of-the-art winery and cellar and cutting-edge winemaking practices. You will enjoy a VIP tour and personalized tasting hosted by charismatic guides, including a visit to the fascinating corkscrew museum, which houses over 1200 corkscrews from the 17th century to the present.

Then on to Ménerbes; narrow streets lined with cute houses and the occasional boutique or café cling to the steep slopes that lead to the 16th-century Citadelle. After admiring the most spectacular view from the top, head to the Place de l’Horloge, where one of the grand, immaculately restored stone houses is home to the Maison de la Truffe et du Vin (House of truffles and wine) for lunch.

After a delicious lunch, which naturally features these exquisite ‘fruits,’ if you are visiting in truffle season, Robert, a lively local truffle farmer, will take you truffle hunting; this is fun and the ultimate French experience.

You will then visit Gordes, breathtakingly beautiful, which is considered not only to be the most beautiful village in Provence but also in France. It is equally striking to be admired from afar as you approach it, as it is fascinating to explore. Your chauffeur will also take you to the nearby Sénanque Abbey, with its familiar view of the abbey framed by lavender fields.

One last stop before heading back to Avignon at Roussillon; in total contrast to the white stone of the other villages, Roussillon is awash with color, resembling a painter’s palette of color thanks to the neighboring ochre quarry, quite a sight off-set against the pine-covered hills and green valleys. Then, a free evening in vibrant Avignon.

Get a real feel for this stunning city on a private walking tour of Avignon with your local expert guide this morning. Famous for its UNESCO world heritage Palais de Papes, the Pope’s Palace was home to the Pope and the center of the Roman Catholic Church for over 70 years in the 1300s. Near the palace, the Notre Dame des Doms Cathedral is also high on the list of “must-see,” with its impressive 6-meter-high gold-gilded Virgin Mary looking out from the top of the bell tower and protecting the city.

The medieval wall that surrounds the old town is a lovely sight. For a small city, it does have a lot to offer, and the picture-perfect cobbled streets are lined with boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and cafés. Simply taking a few moments to sit and watch the hustle and bustle in the vibrant squares is a real pleasure.

By lunchtime, you should have “walked up” an appetite, and you have a fabulous farewell lunch on La Mirande’s beautiful terrace to look forward to. This is an extraordinary finale to this gastronomic trail; the setting is stunning, and each plate that is presented in front of you is a real work of art. The kitchen is now led by chef Michele Donvito, whose tasting menus explore the flavors of Provence and change with the seasons.

After lunch, your chauffeur will take you and your luggage to Avignon TGV for the train to Lyon. On arrival, continue to Cour des Loges Lyon, A Radisson Collection Hotel, in the old town.

After a last breakfast at your supremely romantic hotel, carry on to Lyon airport, or your next port of call, or spend another day in Vieux Lyon- Bon voyage!