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Destination and stays in Beaujolais
Destination and stays in Beaujolais Route des vins Group

Beaujolais, UNESCO Global Geopark

An exceptional geology to discover

Mont Brouilly - Geopark Beaujolais Mont Brouilly - Geopark Beaujolais
  • Bagnols - Typical Village in Pierres Dorées Bagnols - Typical Village in Pierres Dorées
  • Panoramic view from Roche d'Ajoux Panoramic view from Roche d'Ajoux
  • Beaujolais heritage in Montmelas Beaujolais heritage in Montmelas
  • Forest and undergrowth Beaujolais in Propières Forest and undergrowth Beaujolais in Propières
  • Geosite - Geopark Beaujolais Geosite - Geopark Beaujolais
  • Bagnols - Typical Village in Pierres Dorées
  • Panoramic view from Roche d'Ajoux
  • Beaujolais heritage in Montmelas
  • Forest and undergrowth Beaujolais in Propières
  • Geosite - Geopark Beaujolais

Beaujolais, the first vineyard in the world to be recognised as a UNESCO World Geopark

Recognised in 2008 by UNESCO, this designation was awarded to the region for its exceptional geology, its conservation and the education it provides.


Covering the foothills of the Massif Central, the Azergues Valley and the Saône Valley, Beaujolais soil has undergone many changes over the centuries, giving it one of the most complex geologies in France. The most outstanding proof is, of course, the Beaujolais wine! Gamay is one grape variety but with 12 Appellations d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC), all different thanks to the diversity of the soils!


A major regional jewel, the Geopark has been recognised as an Emblematic Tourist Site of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region thanks to the impact it has brought to the region.


When you explore the Beaujolais Geopark, you will be on the lookout for geosites that showcase the specific features of Beaujolais. Whether it is grazing areas, forests or vineyards, you just have to climb from the peaks of Mont Brouilly, Mont Saint-Rigaud or the Terrasse de Chiroubles to understand the complexity of the Beaujolais landscape. Golden stones, white stones, grey stones, granitic or volcanic rocks, limestone, and clay adorn our villages. Taking a stroll in Oingt, Châtillon, Charnay or Lucenay gives you a glimpse of how men exploited the underground stones to build their houses. Visit the Espace Pierres Folles in Saint-Jean-des-Vignes to unlock secrets from the history of geology in Beaujolais!


Discover this unique natural area throughout the year thanks to a series of geo-events. Artists, heritage lovers, winegrowers, geologists, all invite you to learn more about Beaujolais through different facets.

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Contact the Beaujolais tourist office

Villefranche : ouvert toute l’année
D’octobre à avril : du mardi au samedi de 10h à 12h30 et de 14h à 17h
De mai à septembre : du lundi au samedi de 10h à 13h et de 14h30 à 18h.
Fermé les jours fériés