If you’re dreaming of cruising through the rolling vineyards of Côte de Nuits in style, this Vintage Van Tour might just be the perfect fit. Although we haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and charming vintage vehicle paint a picture of a memorable and intimate Burgundy experience. What truly stands out are the knowledgeable guides, the nostalgic 1970 Combi T2, and the chance to taste around five wines in a relaxed setting.
That said, the tour isn’t for someone expecting a full day or a gourmet feast — it’s a compact, three-hour experience with a focus on scenery, education, and authentic wine tasting. If you’re a traveler eager for a personalized glimpse into Burgundy’s vineyards without the crowds, this tour offers a charming and insightful introduction.
Good To Know
- Limited Group Size: Small groups of up to 6 make for an intimate experience.
- Expert Guides: Guides are known for their deep Burgundy knowledge and friendly approach.
- Vintage Van Charm: The 1970 Combi T2 adds a nostalgic, fun element to the journey.
- Scenic Vineyards: Travel along the famous Grand Crus Road in Côte de Nuits.
- Authentic Tasting: About five wines are sampled in a cellar or estate, with commentary.
- Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with pay later option.
An Introduction to Burgundy’s Vineyards in Style
Traveling in a vintage van through Burgundy isn’t your typical wine tour — it’s a cozy, laid-back ride that combines scenic beauty with authentic tasting opportunities. The route along the Grand Crus Road promises stunning views of Côte de Nuits’ vineyard-covered hills, stretching between legendary sites like Chambertin and Romanée-Conti. You get to enjoy the scenery from the comfort of a well-loved 1970 Combi T2, which adds a touch of nostalgia and fun to the trip.
This isn’t a full-day affair but rather a three-hour window that packs in a lot. It’s perfect for those with tight schedules or anyone wanting an intimate tasting experience without the crowds. The tour is designed for small groups, limited to six people, ensuring you get plenty of personalized attention and insider stories from the guide.
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What to Expect from the Tour
Departure and Meeting
You’ll meet your guide at the hotel reception in Dijon at least 10 minutes early — punctuality is appreciated to keep everything running smoothly. The pickup is convenient, and from there, the adventure begins.
The Vintage Van Experience
Travel in a charming 1970 Combi T2, which adds a nostalgic vibe and makes the journey feel more like a fun road trip than a formal tour. The van’s vintage appeal is a hit among travelers, with reviews mentioning how “great” and “fun” the vehicle is. Keep in mind, the guide may need to switch vehicles if mechanical issues arise, but this rarely diminishes the overall experience.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyScenic Vineyard Driving
The real highlight is the drive along the famous vineyards of Côte de Nuits. As you pass through the lush landscape, your guide will share stories about the different plots, villages, and what makes each unique. Expect to see vineyards stretching out in every direction — picture-perfect scenes that make you want to snap endless photos.
The Tasting Experience
After a scenic drive, you’ll stop at a cellar or estate for a commented tasting. Here, you’ll sample about five wines, each selected to showcase the region’s diversity. The tasting is relaxed but educational — your guide, often knowledgeable and enthusiastic, will explain the differences in grape varieties, terroirs, and wine styles.
Insights from Reviews
Many reviewers mention the quality of the wines and the expertise of the guide. One from the US described the guide as “very knowledgeable,” and another appreciated the “remarkable” winery stop. A traveler from France called the guide “super,” highlighting the personalized attention and detailed explanations. These comments hint at a well-rounded, informative experience that appeals to both wine aficionados and casual enthusiasts.
The Value of This Tour
At $111 per person, this tour offers an affordable way to see some of Burgundy’s most iconic vineyards in a relaxed setting. The small group size and personalized guide service mean you get a more tailored experience than large coach tours. Plus, the inclusion of about five tastings provides a meaningful introduction to regional wines without feeling rushed or overwhelming.
While lunch isn’t included, the focus here is on the vineyards and wines, making it ideal if you prefer a dedicated tasting session. The tour’s duration of three hours allows you to enjoy the scenery and learn without it becoming a long day — perfect for combining with other activities in Dijon or Burgundy.
A Deep Dive into the Itinerary
Scenic Drive Along the Grand Crus Road
This stretch of road is one of Burgundy’s most celebrated vineyard zones. As you wind through the hills, you’ll see famous plots like Chambertin and Romanée-Conti. Expect commentary about the different vineyard classifications, their histories, and what makes each plot prestigious. It’s a chance to appreciate the landscape as a vital part of Burgundy’s wine identity.
Vineyard and Village Stops
While the tour doesn’t specify multiple stops, the guide’s insights help you understand the importance of the surrounding villages. You might learn about Vosne-Romanée or Gevrey-Chambertin, both renowned for their pinot noir and critical to Burgundy’s reputation.
The Cellar or Estate Tasting
The tasting takes place in a cellar or estate, where you’ll try around five wines. Reviewers have praised the selection, with one calling it “remarkable,” and a guest from Australia mentioning the knowledgeable guide explaining the different wine types. Expect a mixture of reds, likely pinot noir, and possibly some whites, depending on the estate.
The Guide’s Role
Guides are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and keen to share Burgundy’s secrets. They’ll tell you stories about the region’s plots and villages, making the experience more than just a tasting. This personalized approach enhances the overall value, especially if you’re eager to learn about Burgundy’s wine culture.
Practical Details and Tips
Transportation and Group Size
Travel is in a vintage van that seats up to six guests, creating an intimate atmosphere. Be prepared for the possibility of vehicle changes due to mechanical issues, though this is uncommon. The small group size means plenty of personal attention and a relaxed pace.
Timing and Duration
The tour lasts approximately three hours, beginning at a designated time — check availability for starting times. The brief duration makes it ideal for those on a tight schedule or wanting a taste of Burgundy without a full-day commitment.
Pricing and Value
At $111, the tour offers a good balance of affordability and quality. The inclusion of a scenic drive, expert commentary, and five wine tastings makes it a compelling choice for beginner wine lovers and seasoned connoisseurs alike.
Cancellation and Flexibility
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later, booking flexibility is a plus, especially if your plans are not set in stone.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience suits travelers seeking a personalized, small-group journey into Burgundy’s wine country. If you appreciate charming vintage vehicles, scenic drives, and insightful guides, you’ll find this tour memorable. It’s particularly good for those with limited time but who still want an authentic taste of the Côte de Nuits.
It’s also ideal for first-time visitors wanting a gentle introduction to Burgundy wines, or wine enthusiasts eager to learn about key vineyards in a relaxed environment. The focus on smaller-scale tastings and expert storytelling makes it accessible and engaging.
The Sum Up
This small-group Burgundy tour in a vintage van offers a delightful balance of scenic beauty, expert insights, and authentic wine tasting. The nostalgic vehicle adds fun to the journey, while the knowledgeable guides ensure you understand what makes Burgundy wines so special. The limited group size enhances the intimacy, making it a personalized experience that stands out from larger, more commercial tours.
While it’s a short experience, the thoughtful itinerary and quality tastings make it a valuable introduction to the Côte de Nuits. It’s well-suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, informative, and charming way to explore one of France’s most celebrated wine regions.
If you’re after a friendly, educational, and scenic taste of Burgundy’s vineyards — and don’t mind a 3-hour adventure — this tour could be just what you’re looking for.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for wine beginners? Yes, the guide’s explanations and the relaxed tasting environment make it accessible for all levels, from novices to seasoned wine lovers.
What’s included in the price? The tour includes transportation in a vintage van, a guided explanation, and a tasting of about five wines in a cellar or estate. Lunch is not included.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.
What language is the tour offered in? The tour is available in both English and French, depending on your preference.
Are there any vehicle issues I should worry about? The tour provider reserves the right to change vehicles if mechanical issues occur, but this is rarely a problem and doesn’t typically affect the experience.
How long does the tour last? It runs for approximately three hours, making it suitable for those with tight schedules or as part of a full day in Burgundy.
Will I visit multiple wineries? The tour stops at one cellar or estate for tastings, focusing on quality and depth rather than quantity.
What should I wear? Dress comfortably for a scenic van ride and a wine tasting — layers are recommended, especially if it’s a cooler day.
Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the vintage van provides a cozy, nostalgic ride, with the small group size ensuring a relaxed atmosphere.
Can I join if I’m traveling solo? Definitely. The small group format makes it easy for solo travelers to join and enjoy the experience with others.
This vintage van tour combines charm, expertise, and scenic beauty into a compact Burgundy journey that’s hard to beat for those seeking a personal touch and a genuine experience.
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