Top 20 Castles in Haute-Savoie
Best castles in Haute-Savoie are found within a region of the French Alps known for its diverse historical architecture. This area features a range of castles, from medieval strongholds to elegant residences, each offering insights into centuries of history. Situated amidst picturesque landscapes, including Lake Annecy and Lake Geneva, these structures provide a historical dimension to the natural beauty of the region.
Best castles in Haute-Savoie
- The most popular castles is Château de Duingt, a castle that overlooks Lake Annecy. This impressive castle is part of a picturesque village known for its charming streets and historic houses.
- Another must-see spot is Château de Ripaille, a castle with a special forest and vineyard. This 15th-century castle was formerly the residence of the Dukes and Counts of Savoy and is surrounded by 120 hectares of land.
- Visitors also love Montrottier Castle, a medieval fortress constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries. It houses fascinating collections from a wealthy collector, covering various themes and artifacts from around the world.
- Haute-Savoie is known for its medieval fortresses, ducal residences, and romantic castles. Visitors can explore a variety of architectural styles and historical periods across the region.
- The castles in Haute-Savoie are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 310 upvotes and 145 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Yvoire Medieval Village
Highlight • Settlement
Take the time to stroll through its historic center and get lost on the trails of the many natural spaces of this town in the Thonon-les-Bains agglomeration.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Château de Ripaille
Highlight • Castle
The castle itself has been classified as a historic monument since 1942. The surrounding buildings (for example, the entrance pavilion, the Bonne de Bourbon tower, the pavilion, the Carthusian cell and the agricultural buildings of the former Carthusian monastery) are classified since 1991.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Thonon-les-Bains
Highlight • Lake
Designed by engineer Auguste Alesmonières, the total length of the line is 230 meters, including 86.8 meters of curve.
Inaugurated on Easter Monday, April 2, 1888, the Thonon cable car was used to overcome the difficulties of communication between the city and the port.
During its existence, the Thonon cable car was always in operation, only occasionally was it stopped for technical or political reasons.
It was renovated three times: in 1951 and 1989 (to modernize the mechanism) and most recently in 2010.
The new facility, which was inaugurated in 1989, is fully automated, which meant that the drivers in white blue-collar coats disappeared. The cabins now have a capacity of 54 seats.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Château de Duingt
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Montrottier Castle
Highlight • Castle
Detailed information in English and French can be found here:
chateaudemontrottier.com/en
Due to the proximity to the "Gorge du Fier" and the legendary legends between the castle and the gorge, a visit to both places of interest on the same day is a must.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Château St. Michel du Lac
Highlight • Castle
Later, in the 15th century, it had the reputation of housing demons or treasures and of being a meeting place for followers of the "Sabbaths" who were suspected of making pacts with Satan.
It was celebrated by all the famous visitors to the valley in the 18th and 19th centuries: de Saussure, Chateaubriand, Lamartine, Victor Hugo "The imposing palace, the old citadel ... is there, lonely and gloomy like the crow that caws joyfully at its demise" (Victor Hugo)
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Larringes Castle 74500
Highlight • Castle
The location chosen for its construction was not fortuitous, a real strategic point in terms of the extraordinary view it offered from the Swiss Alps to Fort l'Ecluse at the end of the Jura chain, and from there to Mont- White.
It has had several owners, from the Counts of Allinges, to the Counts of Savoie, then to the Lavanchy, Détraz, De Franlieu families and finally the current owners, the De Stoutz family.
The restoration work of the castle undertaken by Mr. W. De Stoutz, made it possible to fit out the castle in residence as well as a part in offices
It is now private property and cannot be visited.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Bastille Stone of the Château de Thonon
Highlight • Monument
After the storming of the Bastille in 1789, Palloy, a builder, was tasked with demolishing the famous building.
He proposed to the cities of France to buy the stones of the famous fortress as "anecdotes". In 1792, after the invasion of Savoy by French troops, he offered one of these stones to the town of Thonon. Later, after the return of the kings from Piedmont-Sardinia, the stone was found badly damaged in the garden of an Italian family. Finally, at the end of the 19th century, the Bastille stone was placed in the old wall of the Château de Thonon.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Château d'Yvoire
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Château des Avenières
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles in Haute-Savoie.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Haute-Savoie
Walker's Haute Route – The ultimate alpine adventure
MaxiRace - The complete tour of Lake Annecy
Haute Route Alps 2025 — Assaulting the Alps
Transalps MTB – Chamonix to the Mediterranean Sea
L'Omomarto – The evil genius and the exploit
Europe Trail (GR 5) – Hike from Landry to Thonon-les-Bains
Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc – following the footsteps of legends
Road to Lisbon – bikepacking the Alps, Pyrenees and Picos de Europa
Naples to North Cape — Two friends, one purpose and many scoops of ice-cream
Follow the sun – riding from Germany to the south of France
Other adventures in Haute-Savoie
Tips from the Community
This is a medieval castle, built around 1290–1300 by Béatrix de Faucigny to guard the access route to the Chamonix priory monastery and the Arve valley.
1
0
Unfortunately, the chateau was closed during our visit.
1
0
A very interesting château. Admission is €10. If you also visit the gorge, it's only €8. The owner has collected souvenirs and curiosities from all over the world. Therefore, inside you can admire porcelain, weapons, and works of art from Europe, Africa, China, Japan, and more.
1
0
really nice spot to spend some time when the weather is good plus it's fully accessible from annecy by the cyclelane
1
0
Unfortunately not open to visitors - but still an impressive sight from the outside.
4
0
Béatrice, Lady of Faucigny, had this fortress built on this promontory or mollard at the end of the 13th century. It defended the entrance to the Chamonix valley. It included a square main building measuring 30 x 13 m, closed to the south by a round tower 9 m in diameter and 17.50 m high. It served as the residence of the castellan, an administrator who represented the seigneurial power on site. Later, in the 15th century, it had the reputation of housing demons or treasures and of being a meeting place for followers of the "Sabbaths" who were suspected of making pacts with Satan. It was celebrated by all the famous visitors to the valley in the 18th and 19th centuries: de Saussure, Chateaubriand, Lamartine, Victor Hugo "The imposing palace, the old citadel ... is there, lonely and gloomy like the crow that caws joyfully at its demise" (Victor Hugo)
4
0
Yvoire is one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France. Its medieval heritage, its label as a flowery town, and its privileged position on the banks of Lake Geneva have something to do with it. Take the time to stroll through its historic center and get lost on the trails of the many natural spaces of this town in the Thonon-les-Bains agglomeration.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles in Haute-Savoie are particularly family-friendly?
Several castles in Haute-Savoie welcome families. The Château de Ripaille, for example, is surrounded by 120 hectares of forest and vineyards, offering space for exploration. The Yvoire Medieval Village, which includes the Château d'Yvoire, is also noted as family-friendly with its charming streets and lakeside setting.
Are there castles in Haute-Savoie that offer scenic views or natural surroundings?
Absolutely. The Château de Duingt provides beautiful views overlooking Lake Annecy. The Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, while not in our highlights, is famously perched on a rocky spur with stunning panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains. The Château de Ripaille is situated on the shores of Lake Geneva within a large estate featuring vineyards and a French-style park.
Which castles in Haute-Savoie showcase authentic medieval architecture?
For authentic medieval architecture, the Montrottier Castle, constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries, is an excellent choice. It features a cylindrical keep and military architecture from that period. The Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard also boasts elements from its 10th-century origins, evolving through centuries into a romantic neo-Gothic appearance.
What is the best time of year to visit castles in Haute-Savoie?
The spring and summer months (April to October) are generally ideal for visiting castles in Haute-Savoie, as the weather is pleasant for exploring the grounds and many castles offer extended visiting hours. For example, the Château de Ripaille is open for visits from April 1 to October 31.
Can I find castles in Haute-Savoie that are easily accessible or wheelchair-friendly?
The village of Duingt, home to the Château de Duingt, is noted for being fully accessible from Annecy via a cycle lane, making it an easy destination to reach. While specific accessibility within each castle can vary, the surrounding areas and villages often offer good access.
What kind of historical collections can I see in Haute-Savoie castles?
The Montrottier Castle houses fascinating collections bequeathed by Léon Marès, including items related to music, games, clothing, furniture, and artifacts from Africa and the Far East. The Château d'Annecy, now a museum, features the Museum of Alpine Popular Art with regional sculptures, paintings, and vernacular furniture, as well as the Regional Observatory of the Alpine Lakes.
Are there outdoor activities or routes near the castles in Haute-Savoie?
Yes, Haute-Savoie offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find various MTB Trails, Mountain Hikes, and Road Cycling Routes throughout the region. For instance, the area around Lake Annecy, near Château de Duingt, is popular for cycling with routes like the 'Lakeside Path at Lake Annecy'.
What makes the Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard unique?
The Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard is unique for its dramatic setting overlooking Lake Annecy and its history spanning over 1,000 years, having been continuously owned by the de Menthon family for 23 known generations. Its romantic, neo-Gothic appearance is famously said to have inspired Walt Disney for Sleeping Beauty's castle.
What can I expect when visiting the Château d'Annecy?
The Château d'Annecy, dominating the old town, offers a blend of medieval defensive architecture and elegance. It now functions as a Castle-Museum, showcasing regional heritage, art, and the ecosystem of the Alpine lakes. You can explore its collections and various exhibitions, including contemporary art.
Are there any castles in Haute-Savoie that are private and cannot be visited?
Yes, some castles in Haute-Savoie are private residences and not open to the public. For example, Larringes Castle, built in the 10th century, is private property and cannot be visited, though it remains an impressive sight from the outside.
What are some notable features of the Château de Ripaille?
The Château de Ripaille is renowned for its Gothic architecture with Renaissance elements, its historical significance as a former ducal residence and monastery, and its extensive 120-hectare estate. This estate includes vineyards producing AOC Ripaille wine, and a beautiful French-style park with views of Lake Geneva.
What do visitors appreciate most about the castles in Haute-Savoie?
Visitors to Haute-Savoie's castles frequently appreciate the blend of rich history, diverse architectural styles, and stunning natural landscapes. The komoot community has shared over 145 photos and given more than 310 upvotes, highlighting the picturesque settings, well-preserved heritage, and the unique experience each castle offers.
Most popular routes in Haute-Savoie
Most popular attractions in Haute-Savoie
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides in Haute-Savoie:
