The picturesque Château de Chillon is on Lake Geneva in the canton de Vaud (french speaking). It is one of the most famous castles in Switzerland and probably Europe as well.
It started as a Roman outpost, guarding the strategic road from France and Switzerland over the alps down to Italy.
The first written records date back to 1005. It belonged to the counts of Savoy until the Bernese took over in the 16th century. The bernese coat of arms is still visible on the picture above (with the big bear). By 1798 the Vaudois threw out the Bernese German speaking authorities with the help of French troops. In 1803 the castle was taken over by the canton of Vaud.
There are great audioguides to visit the castle offering helpful explanations.
Chillon often has special events and exhibitions going. Check out their calendar here.
It is about an hour’s car ride away from Berne.
