Best castles around Saint-Blaise offer a journey through history in a region characterized by its proximity to Lake Neuchâtel and surrounding landscapes. The area features a mix of well-preserved castles and historical sites, providing various opportunities for exploration. Visitors can discover structures ranging from medieval fortresses to more recent chateaus, often situated with scenic viewpoints.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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Château Valangin is a small castle. It contains a museum that is open (as of 2024) from March to October. The opening times are as follows. Wed - Sat 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Sun 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Entry is free with the Raiffeisen Memberplus card. The museum extends over three floors. Not wheelchair accessible! In the gardens, 9 different herbs and flower beds display crops from the Middle Ages. The castle complex also has a picnic area and a barbecue area.
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A beautiful half-ruin. There is a museum in the intact part of the castle. Exploring the outside area is free. There is an interesting walking tour. The view from the castle is also very beautiful.
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Cressier Castle or Manor of Reynolds. Cressier was once a small lordship that extended over the territory of the current municipality of the same name for about 8 km to the south-east of Murten. The family of the Lords of Cressier, confirmed in the 12th century, came to an end in the 14th century. After a marriage, the lordship became the property of the Bubenbergs of Bern, who had to cede it to Lombard bankers established in Murten by the name of Asinari. In 1403, the indebted family had to sell their property. Source and more: http://www.swisscastles.ch/Fribourg/cressierd.html
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Cressier Castle or Herenhaus de Reynold. Cressier used to be a small lordship that extended over the territory of the current municipality of the same name to approximately 8 km in the southeast of Murten. The family of the Lords of Cressier, confirmed in the 12th century, came to an end in the 14th century. After a marriage, the estate became the property of the Bubenbergs of Bern, who had to cede it to the Lombard bankers named von Asinari, established in Murten. In 1403 the indebted family had to sell their property. Source and more: http://www.swisscastles.ch/Fribourg/cressierd.html
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Very nice town. Highly recommended for a short stay.
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Château (castle) The castle, whose origins date back to the 12th century, is one of the highlights of your visit. Brief description of the outside: a tour along the outer walls gives an overview of the various parts of the building, which are grouped around a large and a smaller courtyard to the south. You can enter from rue de la Collégiale or via the cloister. South side: the Philippe de Hochberg gallery is built on a raised wall and widened by a series of three-tiered bases. Six windows with stone mullions break through the yellow sandstone masonry. Twelve coats of arms, restored in 1898, commemorate the occupation of the country by the Confederates in the 16th century. West side: the Romanesque part is one of the few examples of civil architecture of that era in our country. Various parts of the west façade, with three cornices lying one above the other and richly decorated with vine leaves and tendril ornaments, were completely rebuilt in 1866 from yellow sandstone. East side: the eastern façade of the castle can be reached through a passage under the corner tower. The mighty towers and the fortress-like character of the high walls, at the foot of which the roofs of the old town nestle closely together, are impressive. Text / Source: Jura Trois Lacs Drei Seen Land https://static.mycity.travel/manage/uploads/8/58/91778/2/neuchatel-a-pied.pdf?regionFilters%5b%5d=0
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Several castles in the region are suitable for families. Le Landeron Old Town offers a charming medieval character ideal for cycling through, which can be fun for children. Cressier Castle is located in a small, sleepy town amidst vineyards, providing a picturesque setting for a family visit. Additionally, Valangin Castle features a museum, gardens with medieval crops, and a picnic area, making it a great spot for a family outing.
Yes, Valangin Castle houses a museum within its intact part, showcasing its history. It's open from March to October, Wednesday to Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Neuchâtel Castle, with origins dating back to the 12th century, is also a significant historical site, though parts may be undergoing renovation.
For breathtaking views, Neuchâtel Castle offers a wonderful panorama of Lake Neuchâtel from its walls. Valangin Castle also provides beautiful views from its complex, and the Ruins of Erguel Castle are a popular hiking destination with scenic viewpoints amidst the forest.
Absolutely. The Ruins of Erguel Castle are a popular hiking destination. For more extensive outdoor activities, you can explore various routes in the region. For example, there are several MTB Trails around Saint-Blaise and Gravel biking routes that pass near historical sites and offer opportunities for circular walks.
The region's castles are generally enjoyable year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor areas and castle grounds, with vineyards around places like Cressier Castle being particularly beautiful. Summer is ideal for combining castle visits with activities around Lake Neuchâtel. Some castle museums, like Valangin Castle, have specific opening seasons, typically from March to October.
Accessibility can vary. For instance, Valangin Castle's museum is explicitly noted as not wheelchair accessible, extending over three floors. It's advisable to check specific accessibility details for each site before your visit, especially for older structures.
While specific cafes directly adjacent to every castle are not detailed, the region offers amenities. Le Landeron Old Town, being a charming medieval settlement, likely has local establishments. Valangin Castle provides a picnic and barbecue area, suggesting options for bringing your own food.
Beyond exploring the castles, the Saint-Blaise region offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB trails, road cycling routes, and gravel biking options. Many of these routes pass through scenic landscapes, including vineyards and areas with views of Lake Neuchâtel, often near the historical sites.
Le Landeron Old Town is highly regarded for its remarkable 'vielle ville' (old town). Visitors appreciate its charming medieval character, which makes it a unique place to explore, especially by bike.
Cressier Castle is nestled in a small, sleepy town, surrounded by vineyards. It offers a classic medieval castle experience in a picturesque setting, ideal for those looking for a tranquil historical visit.
Yes, the Ruins of Erguel Castle are a significant site. The remains of its once 30-meter-high tower stand out from the forest. Built in the 12th century, it's now a popular destination for hikers interested in historical ruins.
Visitors frequently highlight the historical depth and scenic beauty of the region's castles. They appreciate the well-preserved medieval character of places like Le Landeron Old Town, the stunning views from Neuchâtel Castle, and the unique combination of history, museum, and picnic areas at Valangin Castle. The integration of castles within beautiful natural landscapes, such as vineyards and forests, is also a common point of praise.


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