Top 5 Castles around Fully
Castles around Fully Switzerland offer a journey into the region's medieval past, with several notable historical structures located within the surrounding Valais canton. These sites provide insights into historical building practices and strategic importance. The area's geography, characterized by the Rhône Valley and Alpine landscapes, often places these castles in elevated positions. Visitors can explore these historical landmarks, which are integral to the cultural heritage of Valais.
Best castles around Fully
- The most popular castles is Saillon Medieval Village, a historical site that was first mentioned in 1052 as the castle of the Bishop of Sion. It features the Bayart keep and reinforced city walls from around 1260.
- Another must-see spot is Château de Saint-Maurice, a castle located at the entrance to Saint-Maurice in the Canton of Valais. This 15th-century castle, also known as the “Castle of the Governors,” once played an important role in military and judicial affairs.
- Visitors also love Bayart Tower, Saillon Castle, a 13th-century tower that dominates the Rhône valley and the village of Saillon. You can climb to the top and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
- Fully is known for its historical sites, including medieval villages and castles. These structures offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and strategic importance.
- The castles around Fully are appreciated by the komoot community, with 216 upvotes and 27 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Château de Saint-Maurice
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Saillon Medieval Village
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First mentioned in 1052 as the castle of the Bishop of Sion. Under the rule of the Savoys, the town was one of the most important commercial and military bases in the Valais until 1475
Saillon's history begins early. Hunters from the Mesolithic period (ca. 10,000 - 5,500 BC) may have occupied the portal of the Poteu cave. However, excavations in the first half of the 20th century could not attest to their presence. Saillon was then continuously inhabited since the Neolithic period (Bourneaux's tomb, 4,000 BC) and the Bronze Age (around twenty tombs reported at the foot of the hill between the Salentze and Bourneaux rivers). The remains of an important Roman villa from the 2nd century near the Salentze river indicate the importance of the site at that time. On the same site, the first Christian sanctuary of Saillon was built in the 6th century. The foundations of the walls of this Carolingian church are still visible and the reworked chancel forms the current St. Lawrence Chapel. When anarchy and insecurity replaced the order that reigned in Charlemagne's empire, the population of Saillon retreated to the more easily defended hill. It is known that a castle stood in Saillon in 1052, as it was one of the properties donated to the Chapter of Sion by Bishop Aymon of Savoy. Its strategic location was of interest to Savoy, which took possession of Saillon at the beginning of the 13th century. Around 1260, Pierre II had the city walls reinforced and the Bayart keep built, whose name comes from Lady Bayart, the owner of the property. The Dukes of Savoy had the ambition to turn Saillon into a fairground that would provide shade for their enemy, the Bishop of Sion. It should also be noted that the first written mention of vines in Valais appears in 1052. The dream of glory came to an end in 1475 when patriots from Upper Valais took over Lower Valais and set fire to the Savoyard castles, including that of Saillon. From then on, the village quickly became a peaceful village in the countryside again
Text / Source: Association, The most beautiful Swiss villages, Lugano
borghisvizzera.ch/de/scheda/saillon
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La Bâtiaz Covered Bridge, Martigny
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This is the last wooden bridge in Valais that is still navigable.
Here, a bridge was swept away by the floods of the Dranse river in 1635 and later by the Giétroz debacle (1818). A new bridge was then built in 1829, covered with a structure supported by larch wood arches. The bridge was consolidated in 1920 and is the last arched bridge in Valais that is still navigable.
Text / Source: Office de Tourisme de Martigny
martigny.com/de/aktivitaten/holzbruecke-la-batiaz-5286/?gt-reset
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Bayart Tower, Saillon Castle
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Saillon Old Town
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Tips from the Community
Superb. You can continue over the footbridge at Farinet with your mountain bike, descend to Leytron or climb to Ovronnaz and descend to Chamison.
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Magnificent view and thrilling climb in the tower
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A must for cyclists, a magnificent place
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The Pont de la Bâtiaz is the last remaining wooden bridge for vehicles in Valais. It was first washed away by the floods of the Dranse in 1635, and later again by the Giétroz disaster in 1818. A new bridge was built in 1829. Today it is roofed and has larch arches. In 1920 the bridge was strengthened. It is currently the last arch bridge still in use in Valais. Architecture and location: Dating from the 19th century, the Pont de la Bâtiaz is an impressive example of craftsmanship in local larch wood. The bridge spans the wild Dranse River, which is prone to flooding.
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Construction of the Château de la Bâtiaz began around 1260. It is the only surviving testimony of the medieval period in this region. The castle often changed hands between the House of Savoy and the Bishops of Sion.
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Clinging to the mountain above the Rhône, the Château de Saint-Maurice (15th-17th century) has been a venue since 2005 for major temporary exhibitions for all audiences around the theme of drawing, press cartoons and comic. It also presents a permanent exhibition on its history, access to which is commonly available through the temporary exhibition. It is one of the highlights of the exhibition of drawn narration in French-speaking Switzerland. https://www.viefrancigene.org/fr/resource/poi/castello-di-saint-maurice/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical castles can I visit near Fully?
The Valais canton, surrounding Fully, is rich in historical castles. Notable sites include the medieval ruins of Château de Tourbillon in Sion, the impressive 13th-century Château de la Bâtiaz in Martigny, and the historic Château de Saint-Maurice. Additionally, the Saillon Medieval Village offers a glimpse into the past with its Bayart keep and reinforced city walls.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit in the Fully area?
Yes, several castles and historical sites near Fully are suitable for families. The Saillon Medieval Village is a great option, offering an immersive historical experience. The Château de Saint-Maurice also hosts temporary exhibitions that can be engaging for all ages, and its location near the Grotte aux Fees adds an element of adventure.
What are the best castles for panoramic views near Fully?
For breathtaking panoramic views, the Château de Tourbillon in Sion is highly recommended. Perched on a hilltop, it offers stunning vistas of Sion, the Rhône Valley, and the Valère Basilica. The Bayart Tower, Saillon Castle also provides a magnificent view of the Rhône valley and the village of Saillon from its summit.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region around Fully offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find various hiking trails, such as those listed in the Hiking around Fully guide, or more challenging routes in the Mountain Hikes around Fully guide. For runners, there are also dedicated Running Trails around Fully. Many of these routes pass by or offer views of the historical sites.
Where can I experience local Valaisan gastronomy and wine near Fully?
For a unique culinary and wine experience, visit the Château de Villa in Sierre. This 16th-century residence is now a cultural and culinary hub, renowned for its extensive wine shop featuring over 650 Valaisan wines and a specialty restaurant serving traditional Valaisan dishes like raclette and fondue.
What is the history behind the castles in the Valais region?
The castles in the Valais region, including those near Fully, have a rich history rooted in medieval times. Many, like the Château de Tourbillon, served as fortified residences for powerful bishops or as strategic military and commercial bases, such as the Saillon Medieval Village under Savoyard rule. They reflect the region's past struggles for power and control over vital trade routes.
Is there public transport available to reach castles near Fully?
While specific public transport details for each castle vary, towns like Sion and Martigny, which host castles such as Château de Tourbillon and Château de la Bâtiaz, are generally well-connected by Swiss public transport. From these towns, local buses or short walks can often lead to the castle sites. It's advisable to check local schedules for the most up-to-date information.
What makes Château de Saint-Maurice unique?
The Château de Saint-Maurice, also known as the “Castle of the Governors,” is unique due to its strategic location at the entrance to Saint-Maurice in the Canton of Valais, built on the Saint-Maurice Gorge. This 15th-century castle once played a crucial role in military and judicial affairs. Today, it hosts major temporary exhibitions focused on drawing, press cartoons, and comics, blending history with contemporary art.
Can I visit the Bayart Tower in Saillon?
Yes, you can visit the Bayart Tower, which is part of the ruins of Saillon Castle. This 13th-century tower dominates the Rhône valley and the village of Saillon. Visitors can climb to the top to enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area, making for a thrilling experience.
What is the best time of year to visit castles around Fully?
The best time to visit castles around Fully and in the Valais region is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically mild, making outdoor exploration and enjoying the panoramic views more pleasant. Some castles may have seasonal opening hours or special events during the summer.
Are there any easy walking trails around the castles near Fully?
While some castles, like Château de Tourbillon, involve a moderate climb, many areas around the medieval villages and castle ruins offer easier walking paths. For instance, exploring the Saillon Medieval Village itself involves walking through its historic streets. You can also find various routes in the Hiking around Fully guide that might include easier sections or loops.
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