On the south-western shore of Lake Neuchâtel, Château de Grandson has watched over the small town of the same name for almost a thousand years. This imposing castle is one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Switzerland and holds an important place in the country’s history. During a visit, you walk through centuries-old halls, uncover stories of knights, dukes and battles and enjoy beautiful views over the lake.
Read this article in DutchA strategic location on Lake Neuchâtel
When you see the castle, it is immediately clear why this spot was chosen. Château de Grandson was built on a rocky outcrop beside what was then the shore of Lake Neuchâtel. From here, the lords of Grandson could keep watch over both the boats crossing the lake and the important trade route that ran along the water’s edge. Today, the lake lies a little farther from the castle. This is because the water level was lowered in the nineteenth century as part of major works to prevent flooding in the region.
Even from a distance, the castle’s impressive, almost square shape stands out. With its high walls, solid towers and enclosed courtyard, Château de Grandson still has the atmosphere of a medieval fortress. Because it has barely been altered in any major way over the centuries, it is now considered one of the best preserved castles in Switzerland.
Almost a thousand years of history
The first fortified tower on this site was built around the year 950. By the eleventh century, it had developed into a true castle and became the seat of the powerful House of Grandson. In the thirteenth century, Othon I de Grandson, also known as Otto, left the greatest mark on the castle. He oversaw a major reconstruction that transformed it into the impressive fortress you see today. Othon was not only an influential nobleman in the County of Savoy but also a trusted adviser to King Edward I of England. He took part in crusades, military campaigns and diplomatic missions on behalf of several European rulers.
After the House of Grandson died out, the castle passed through the hands of several owners. Its most famous chapter began in the fifteenth century during the Burgundian Wars. In 1476, Charles the Bold laid siege to Château de Grandson after it had been captured by the Swiss Confederation. When the garrison surrendered, he ordered the defenders to be executed. Shortly afterwards, the Battle of Grandson took place, ending in a surprising victory for the Swiss forces over Charles the Bold’s army. The battle became a decisive turning point in the Burgundian Wars and brought the Swiss an enormous collection of captured treasures, securing its place as one of the defining events in Swiss history.
Fifteen years of restoration
After centuries of use, alterations and changing ownership, one of the largest restoration projects in the castle’s history began in 2011. Over the next fifteen years, almost the entire complex was carefully restored. The work went far beyond repairing walls, roofs and historic rooms. The surrounding grounds were redesigned and made more accessible for visitors, while more than one hundred specialist companies contributed to the project.
In the spring of 2026, Château de Grandson reopened its doors. Visitors can now explore the completely redesigned permanent exhibition: Grandson: 1,000 Years of History. Spread across fifteen rooms on four floors, the exhibition takes you through nearly a millennium of history. Modern displays, interactive features and original artefacts bring the castle’s story to life in an engaging way while carefully preserving its historic character.
A visit to Château de Grandson
As you explore the castle, you wander through atmospheric courtyards, centuries old halls, imposing defensive walls and several towers. Along the way, there are beautiful views across Lake Neuchâtel, the Jura Mountains and the surrounding vineyards. It is this combination of history, architecture and landscape that makes a visit to Château de Grandson so memorable.
Even if medieval history is not your main interest, Château de Grandson is well worth a visit. More than anything, it is the atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression. You are walking through a fortress that has been part of the Swiss landscape for almost a thousand years and whose remarkable past can still be read in its walls.
Where to stay
During my visit to northern Vaud, I stay at Hôtel La Prairie in Yverdon-les-Bains. The hotel is set in a peaceful green area within walking distance of the historic centre. Its comfortable rooms and spacious terrace make it a pleasant place to unwind after a day full of new impressions. From the hotel, you can walk to Yverdon-les-Bains station in about ten minutes or take the bus, which stops right outside the hotel. From there, it is a short train journey to Château de Grandson.
Discover more of northern Vaud
A visit to Château de Grandson is easy to combine with several other highlights in northern Vaud. Just a few minutes away is Yverdon-les-Bains, known for its historic centre, thermal baths and the Grande Cariçaie, one of Switzerland’s largest wetlands. The rural town of Echallens also makes a worthwhile stop, home to the Swiss Museum of Wheat and Bread and the historic Moulin d’Echallens. If you enjoy discovering local produce, head to Bonvillars. At La Sauvageraie you can learn all about truffles, while Domaine La Boulaz offers the opportunity to taste wines produced in the surrounding vineyards. Continuing south, the lakeside town of Morges makes a fitting final stop on your journey through Vaud. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, visit Maison de la Rivière and the historic Château de Morges and soak up the relaxed atmosphere on the shores of Lake Geneva. Vaud has far more to offer than its famous lakeshore alone. From medieval castles and historic towns to vineyards and nature reserves, the canton is full of surprises!
