Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle is the most visited historic building in Switzerland, a romantic medieval fortress built on a rocky islet at the edge of Lake Geneva, its towers and turrets mirrored in the water beneath the Alps. Home to the Counts of Savoy, its vaulted halls, painted chambers and lakeside dungeon, immortalised by Byron in a famous poem, make it one of the most beautiful castles in Europe.

Highlights

• The lakeside setting - the castle rising from the water beneath the mountains.
• The vaulted halls - the great chambers and painted rooms of the Savoys.
• The dungeon - the lakeside vault made famous by Byron's poem.
• The courtyards and towers - the ramparts and keep to explore.

When to go

Spring to autumn for the best weather and lake boats; it is a mostly indoor sight, so also good on a poorer day. Arriving by lake steamer from Montreux makes a beautiful approach.

What to expect

It is very popular, so it can be busy, especially with tour groups; arriving early or by boat helps. It is a set indoor route through the rooms rather than a vast estate. The lakeside walk from Montreux is a lovely way to reach it.

Nearby

Montreux and its lakeside promenade are close; the Lavaux vineyards and the Alps rise nearby.

Key facts