Grandson Castle
Château de Grandson
A 13th-century five-tower castle on the southern shore of Lake Neuchâtel, where Swiss forces decisively defeated Charles the Bold of Burgundy in 1476.
Grandson Castle was begun in the 11th century. Its main structure that survives today, with five round towers and high walls, dates from the 13th century, making it one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Switzerland. In 1476, Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, massacred the garrison here. A few days later, the Swiss Confederation routed the Burgundian army nearby and seized a great deal of booty. The Battle of Grandson was a turning point in Swiss history. Inside the castle are a knights' hall, an exhibition of weapons and armour, a model of the battle, a collection of vintage cars and a courtyard with excellent views over the lake. Admission is about CHF 15. The castle can be reached by train or by Lake Neuchâtel boat.
Opening hours
Apr–Oct daily 08:30–18:00; shorter in winter
Nearby sights
- Maison de l'Absinthe, Val-de-Travers
- La Presta Asphalt Mines
- Creux du Van
- Gorges de l'Areuse
- Ethnography Museum of Neuchâtel
- Valangin Castle
- Neuchâtel Castle & Collegiate Church
- Neuchâtel Old Town