The 9 most beautiful villages in Beaujolais, treasures to discover

Beaujolais is a French wine-growing region renowned for its wines and picturesque landscapes. The villages that dot the region are treasures to be discovered and explored. In this article, we invite you to discover the 9 most beautiful villages in the Beaujolais, where history, heritage and traditions combine to create an unforgettable journey.

1. Oingt, the pearl of the Beaujolais

Oingt is often considered to be the most beautiful village in the Beaujolais region, and for good reason. Perched on a hill, it offers uninterrupted views of the vineyards and surrounding mountains. Its cobbled streets, golden stone houses and 12th-century church give it an undeniable charm. Don’t forget to visit the Mechanical Music Museum, which houses a unique collection of old and unusual instruments.

Strolling through the narrow streets of Oingt, you can also admire the château, which dates back to the 13th century and was restored in the 19th century. It now hosts exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. A stay in Oingt is a must if you want to discover the heritage and beauty of the Beaujolais region.

2. Ternand, a medieval getaway on the Wine Route

Ternand is a medieval village on the famous Beaujolais Wine Route. Its rich historical heritage will transport you back in time, with its ramparts, Romanesque church and half-timbered houses. Don’t miss a visit to the village cellars, where you can taste the local wines and learn more about the region’s winemaking expertise.

The village of Ternand is also surrounded by footpaths that allow you to explore the wine-growing landscapes and exceptional panoramas that this part of the Beaujolais region has to offer. Finally, for history buffs, the remains of Ternand castle, dating back to the 11th century, are well worth a visit.

3. Beaujeu, the capital of the Beaujolais region

Beaujeu is often referred to as the “Capital of Beaujolais” because of its historic role in the development of the wine region. The village boasts a remarkable architectural heritage, including the 14th-century church of Saint-Nicolas and the Couvent des Cordeliers, a former monastery founded in the 13th century. Art lovers won’t want to miss the Musée Marius-Audin, which houses a collection of works of art and objects linked to the history of the Beaujolais region.

Beaujeu is also the birthplace of the famous Sarmentelles festival, held every November to celebrate the launch of Beaujolais Nouveau. This festive and convivial event celebrates Beaujolais wines, local gastronomy and traditional music.

4. Charnay, a typical hilltop village

Charnay is a charming village perched on a hill, with an uninterrupted view over the vineyards and mountains of the Beaujolais region. Its narrow, steep streets, golden stone houses and 11th-century Romanesque church give Charnay a peaceful, authentic atmosphere.

The village is also surrounded by footpaths, ideal for exploring the wine-growing landscapes and exceptional panoramas that this part of the Beaujolais region has to offer. Finally, don’t forget to visit the “Maison du Pressoir”, an old 16th-century wine press that bears witness to Charnay’s rich wine-growing past.

5. Vaux-en-Beaujolais, in the heart of the vineyards

Vaux-en-Beaujolais is a picturesque village nestling in the heart of the Beaujolais vineyards. Its architectural heritage is typical of the region, with its golden stone houses and cobbled streets. The 14th-century church of Saint-Blaise is a fine example of Gothic architecture.

The village is surrounded by vineyards and cellars where you can taste Beaujolais wines and learn more about the region’s winemaking expertise. Vaux-en-Beaujolais is also the starting point for a number of hiking trails, allowing you to explore the wine-growing countryside and enjoy exceptional views of the Beaujolais mountains.

6. Bagnols, a picturesque stopover not to be missed

Bagnols is a charming, picturesque village in the Beaujolais region, with a pastoral setting and a rich architectural heritage. Its golden stone houses, flower-filled lanes and 13th-century château bear witness to the region’s history and traditions.

The village is also surrounded by vineyards and cellars where you can taste Beaujolais wines and learn more about the region’s winemaking expertise. Don’t forget to visit the church of Saint-Maurice, a fine example of Romanesque architecture, and stroll through the narrow streets of Bagnols to enjoy its peaceful, authentic atmosphere.

7. Châtillon d’Azergues, the jewel of the Beaujolais region

Châtillon d’Azergues is a medieval village in the heart of the Beaujolais region, whose château is considered to be the finest in the region. Built in the 13th century and restored in the 19th century, the Château d’Azergues is a true architectural masterpiece, with its towers, ramparts and formal gardens.

The village of Châtillon d’Azergues also boasts a rich architectural heritage, including the 11th-century church of Saint-Martin and the remains of the medieval ramparts. The cobbled streets and golden stone houses give Châtillon d’Azergues a peaceful, authentic atmosphere, perfect for exploring and relaxing.

8. Jarnioux, an exceptional village not to be missed

Jarnioux is a village in the Beaujolais region that richly deserves its place in this top 9. Its architectural heritage is remarkable, including the 16th-century Château de Jarnioux and the church of Saint-Pierre, which houses 13th-century frescoes. The cobbled streets and golden stone houses give Jarnioux an authentic, peaceful atmosphere.

The village is also surrounded by vineyards and cellars where you can taste Beaujolais wines and learn more about the region’s winemaking expertise. Last but not least, Jarnioux is criss-crossed by a number of hiking trails, allowing you to discover the wine-growing landscapes and exceptional panoramas that this part of the Beaujolais region has to offer.

9. Chessy les Mines, in the heart of the Pierres Dorées Beaujolais region

Chessy les Mines is a member of the “Beaujolais des Pierres Dorées” region, which owes its name to the characteristic colour of its stone houses. The village boasts a remarkable architectural heritage, including the 12th-century church of Saint-Pierre and the 13th-century Château de Chessy.

The wine-growing countryside surrounding Chessy les Mines is ideal for hiking and exploring the Beaujolais vineyards. You can also visit the cellars and taste the local wines, learning more about the region’s winemaking expertise. Finally, be sure to take a stroll through the cobbled streets of Chessy les Mines, to enjoy its peaceful, authentic atmosphere.

In conclusion, the Beaujolais region is full of picturesque and charming villages, where history, heritage and traditions come together to offer an unforgettable journey. Each of these 9 villages is well worth a visit, so don’t hesitate to explore these Beaujolais treasures on your next trip to this magnificent French wine region.