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Chillon Castle (annex)
Chillon Castle, located on a rocky islet along the shores of Lake Geneva, is widely regarded as one of Europe's best-preserved medieval fortresses and Switzerland's most visited historic site. Its strategic location allowed occupants to control the narrow passage between the steep Alpine slopes and the water since the Bronze Age. The castle reached its architectural peak during the 13th-century Savoyard period under Peter II of Savoy, who expanded the site into both a formidable fortress and a lavish princely residence. From 1536 to 1798, it served as an administrative center and arsenal for the Bernese conquerors before being claimed by the Canton of Vaud following the local revolution. It achieved global literary fame through Lord Byron's poem "The Prisoner of Chillon," which tells the story of François Bonivard, a clergyman imprisoned in the castle's dungeons. The structure is unique for its dual design, presenting a heavily fortified facade toward the land and a graceful residential palace toward the lake.
- Location: Switzerland
- Top sights: Fort de Chillon · Chillon Castle · Villeneuve Plage (Riviera)
- Nearby: Vevey (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | -2 | 2 | 7 | 11 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 13 | 9 | 3 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 92 | 72 | 90 | 81 | 127 | 114 | 115 | 120 | 81 | 94 | 90 | 101 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The first written record of Chillon Castle dates back to the year 1150.
- Peter II of Savoy undertook major renovations and expansions during the 13th century.
- François Bonivard was imprisoned and chained in the castle dungeons from 1530 to 1536.
- The castle complex comprises 25 buildings organized around three main courtyards.
- Lord Byron famously carved his name into a pillar in the dungeon during his visit in 1816.
- The site features well-preserved 14th-century murals in the grand Camera Domini room.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Chillon Castle (annex) (9)
Chillon Castle🏰 castle
Moated castle in Veytaux in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland.
Saint-John
Church building in Montreux in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland.
Grotte du Scex du Chatelard
Cave in the Scex du Chatelard rock, a natural attraction.
Pressoir
Historic wine press or winery, a testament to winemaking.
OPENeSPACE
Arts centre in Montreux, with exhibitions and cultural events.
Temple Saint-Vincent
Church building in Montreux in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Who is the most famous prisoner of Chillon?
What is the best way to reach the castle?
Is photography allowed in the castle?
Is Chillon a water castle?
How much time should be planned for the visit?
Chillon Castle (annex): where is it located?
Chillon Castle (annex): what is there to see?
Chillon Castle (annex): when is the best time to visit?
Chillon Castle (annex): why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
