• Beaujolais - Classic ridge tour

• 8 day holiday: Starts Saturdays and Sundays every weekend during April, May, June, September and October and the following dates during July and August: 5, 6, 19, 20 July, 30 & 31 August.
• 9 day option: starts Saturdays only, on the same weekends

• 8 days: £540
• 9 days: £595

• 8 or 9 days: 6 or 7 days independent walking moving between guest houses

• Varied walking through vines, pastures and forests
• Sweeping views across rolling countryside from picturesque ridges
• Wine tasting visits in the region of the "Grand Crus"
• Region famous for its gastronomic delights
• Pretty villages and interesting historic sites on route

• 7 or 8 nights accommodation in several 2 and 3 star equivalent guest houses, double or twin rooms with own bathrooms. All breakfasts included, all lunches with the exception of arrival and departure days and 5 or 6 evening meals (depending on option)

1. Airport and station transfers from Lyon.
2. 7 or 8 nights' accommodation.
3. Full Board. (with the exception of lunches on day of arrival and departure, plus two evening meals)
4. Full walking notes and maps
5. Transport of luggage between guest houses

1. Travel between the UK and Lyon, France
   
2. Lunches on the day of arrival and departure
   
3. Transfers, other than those from Lyon.
   
4. Any excursions or entrance fees
   
5. Drinks to accompany evening meals in restaurants (A glass of wine is usually included with the meal in most guest houses.)
6. You can hire the services of a local expert guide for a half or full day – cost about 50 pounds per person per day

Walks

The walks average 15 to 20 km and include some sizeable ascents and descents, although they are generally no more than 500m at a time. The paths are generally good, although they can be rough and stoney in places. The walk described below is that incorporating a 9 day (8 night) holiday. If you decide on the 8 day (7 night option), you need to remove day 5.

Day 1: Arrival

Welcome, drive to Fleurie in the heart of the Beaujolais and settle in to your first guest house. Dinner in a local restaurant

Day 2: Fleurie to Julienas/Jullié

Your first day meanders through the vineyards of some of the most celebrated Beaujolais wines, where you will take time out to sample their qualities. Afterwards, you will climb onto a couple of modest ridges which provide 360 degree views over the sea of vines which spread as far as the Saone valley. After, you will visit the village of Julienas, where you will find some fine examples of Beaujolais architecture, including the Maison de la Dime with its stoned arched gallaries. B&B or hotel

Day 3: Jullié to Ouroux

After passing by the imposing Chateau de la Roche and the quiant Chapelle de Vatre, you will climb steadily away from the vines and onto the Beaujolais heights. Here, you will discover a completely different landscape of undulating grazed fields and forests. After traversing a broad ridge, you have the option of visiting Cenves, a pictureque village perched on the end of a promontory, or descending directly to Ouroux in the Grosne Valley. B&B

Day 4: Ouroux to Ardillats

A short day climbing steadily out of the valley up onto the heights surrounding Mont St-Rigaud; the highest point in the northern Beaujolais. Relax by the pool in wonderfull surroundings. B&B

Day 5: Ardillats/Monsols

You have the choice of a number of circular walks in the area, or relaxing by the pool at your B&B. There is also the chance to hire a local guide for half a day to explain in detail about the history and wildlife of this upland area. B&B

Day 6: Ardillats to St Didier sur Beaujeu

The day starts with a high level traverse taking in some great views across the upland Beaujolais. Following a small detour to the Croix de Rochefort where you literally look straight down upon Beaujeu (ancient capital of the Beaujolais), you will take a more gentle walk down to this interesting village. After a well-earned rest and drink in a local cafe, you'll be ready for the climb to your next B&B.

Day 7: St Didier to Marchampt

Another day exploring the heights with the option of walking to the Summit of Mont Soubran. After taking in views of the intimate valleys to the east, where vines and forests meet, you will follow a picturesque ridge offering breath-taking views across the Beaujolais and beyond. On a clear day, the Mont Blanc stands out proud on the horizon. B&B

Day 8: Marchampt to Fleurie

Your final walk leads back to Fleurie taking in a number of fine ridges with impressive views. On route you will have time to explore the village of Regnie-Durette, with its impressive two spired church and some traditional wine-growers houses. Your final descent will pass by the Chapelle de la Madonne, perched on a promontory overlooking the vinyards, providing one last chance to take in the impressive Beaujolais vistas.

Day 9: Departure

Return to Lyon and transfer home