Switzerland is known for its ski slopes, watches, and chocolate—but also for its castles and fortresses that, over the centuries, protected the political and economic interests of the regions.
French-speaking Switzerland has over a hundred castles, most of which were built by the Counts of Savoy. As such, many of them follow the characteristic "Savoyard square" style. Here's our selection of the most beautiful castles in French-speaking Switzerland—perfect for uncovering the secrets hidden behind their walls.
1. Château d'Aigle, Vaud
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Built at the end of the 12th century by the Saillon family for the House of Savoy, this castle was erected on ancient Roman ruins to protect the town of Aigle and monitor the Rhône Valley and the route to Col du Pillon and Pays-d’Enhaut. It now houses the Vine and Wine Museum, preserving the viticultural heritage of Vaud.
2. Château de Vufflens, Vaud
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Located in Vufflens-le-Château, this fortress was originally built in the 12th century and later rebuilt in the 15th century. After changing hands several times, it ended up with the Senarclens and later the de Saussure family. Surrounded by 8 hectares of vineyards, the castle produces AOC wines aged in its own cellars.
3. Château de Gruyère, Fribourg
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Overlooking La Gruyère, this is Switzerland’s second most-visited castle after Chillon. Built in the Savoyard square style, it holds treasures such as stained glass, Toison d'Or cloaks, mural decorations, and troubadour paintings. You might get the chance to visit it during the Fribourg Tour.
4. Château de Grandson, Vaud
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LLocated in Grandson, this is the second-largest castle in Switzerland. It played a key role in the Battle of Grandson between Charles the Bold and the Swiss Confederates. The fortress, once protected by the lake, is now a national heritage site and one of Switzerland’s best-preserved castles.
5. Château de Morges, Vaud
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Built by the Duke of Savoy to oppose the prince-bishop, this castle served both strategic and residential purposes. Since 1925, it's been a military museum showcasing collections of weapons, armor, and flags.
6. Château d'Oron, Vaud
© Schönegg
Located in Oron-le-Châtel, this 12th-century castle served as a fortress controlling the Broye Valley passage and later as a prison. Now a national heritage site, it is open to the public with exhibitions, concerts, banquets, and events.
7. Château de Chillon, Vaud
© Andrea Caramello
On the shores of Lake Geneva in Veytaux, this 10th-century castle is Switzerland’s most-visited historic monument. With a strategic location between the Vaud Riviera and the Rhône plain, its 110-meter length and 50-meter width follow the oval shape of the island it sits on.
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8. Château de Vullierens, Vaud
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This 1308 castle sits on a 100-hectare estate and has remained in the same family for over 700 years. The surrounding Iris Gardens boast nearly 50,000 irises and over 400 varieties in seven themed gardens, each named after figures important to the estate’s history.
9. Château de Prangins, Vaud
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Built in 1723 by a Parisian banker, this castle overlooks Lake Geneva and is surrounded by gardens with rare heritage plant varieties. It now hosts the French-speaking branch of the Swiss National Museum.
10. Château de Tourbillon et Basilique de Valère, Valais
© Nolan Krattinger
Located on a hill in Sion, Tourbillon Castle (13th century) was naturally protected by steep terrain. It was heavily damaged in conflicts and burned down in 1788. Nearby, the Valère Basilica houses the oldest playable organ in Europe. You may visit them during the Valais Tour.
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