Switzerland's Oldest Castle Sits On An Alpine Lake And Is Its Most Visited Historic Building

Perched along the shores of Lake Geneva, you'll find an enchanting historic castle that will make you feel as though you've wandered into a fairy tale, and it deserves a spot at the top of your Switzerland itinerary. The entire country is a paradise for nature lovers and history buffs year round. During the spring and summer the landscapes come alive and the historic cities are abuzz with locals and tourists. You can hike through verdant green meadows scattered with wildflowers surrounded by majestic mountain views. When the weather turns colder and the snow begins to fall it transforms into a wonderland worth adding to your winter bucket list. 

Travelers from around the world flock there during the cold weather months to indulge in some of Europe's best skiing and snowboarding in iconic resort towns like St. Moritz. You can take a winding ride on some of Europe's most famous scenic trains like the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express that cross over heart-pumping viaducts towering hundreds of feet above deep gorges and pass through tunnels carved straight through mountains. Those interested in luxury and relaxation will adore visiting the stunning Belle Epoque era hotels along the shores of sparkling alpine lakes, or cruising the water. (Lake Geneva's vintage boats are one of the best ways to enjoy the area.)

There's endless beauty to explore, but don't forget to experience some of Switzerland's amazing historic sites during your trip. Chillon Castle has presided over the lake for hundreds of years, and is one of the best spots to visit if you're a fan of history and medieval architecture. 

The earliest written records mentioning Chillon Castle are from the year 1150. Historians estimate that it was likely constructed much earlier, sometime in the 11th century by the House of Savoy – a feudal family who ruled over much of the Alpine regions. It is named for the small rocky island on which it was built – Chillon translates to "rocky platform" in a long forgotten language. Despite existing for over 800 years, the castle remains remarkably well-preserved and regarded as one of the most immaculate Medieval castles in all of Europe. Castles from this era are scattered all across the continent, but many of them are in ruins, or have required extensive rebuilds. Amazingly, Chillon Castle has survived countless European wars and remains entirely intact, with only minor renovations and preservation efforts over the years.

The enchanting castle was originally used as a summer palace, and its noble occupants would spend their summers enjoying the lovely mild weather at the lake, leaving the castle mostly empty during the winter. It underwent improvements in the late 1200s under the guidance of a well-known architect from the time period named Pierre Mainier.

Designed as an opulent escape, the castle's spacious rooms were often used to throw parties for the nobility and their guests. The walls were adorned with beautiful paintings and frescoes, some of which are still able to be viewed by visitors today thanks to restoration efforts. Eventually political power shifted and the castle changed hands, and was ruled by the Bernese for a time before French revolutionaries took over. In 1803, ownership passed to the Canton of Vaud and the castle was used for storing weapons and ammunition then as a prison until historic renovations began in the late 1800s.

In more modern times, Chillon Castle has been a source of inspiration for artists and creatives. Countless visitors have fallen in love with its beauty, and the surrounding scenery. It has been made immortal through the words of poets and authors. In the 1700s the castle was mentioned in a novel by Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Lord Byron wrote an epic poem called "The Prisoner of Chillon" about a Protestant historian who was held in the castle's dungeon. Percy Bysshe Shelly, Victor Hugo, Charles Dickens, and Ernest Hemingway are just a few of the many literary legends who visited Chillon Castle and found it inspiring.

Any visitor who gazes out of the castle windows over the remarkable views of the lake can easily see why it has become one of Switzerland's most beloved historic sites. To enter, you must first pass over a picturesque drawbridge over a moat to the rocky island on which the structure is perched. Once inside, you can explore the grand rooms with sky high ceilings, towering windows, and stunning courtyards. Various items dating back to the Middle Ages that were discovered during archeological digs are displayed throughout the castle. Antique furniture and weapons are also on display.

You can reach the castle easily by train or car, as it is near a major roadway, but for a romantic experience opt to stroll along the lakeshore on the scenic Chemin Fleuri promenade from the city of Montreux. The walk takes a little over a half hour, and the multi-purpose path is lined with public art displays. If you're lucky enough to visit during the spring or summer you'll find the pathway lined with countless species of colorful flowers. You can also visit the castle via boats that depart from all around Lake Geneva.