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Castle · Annecy, Auvérnia-Ródano-Alpes
Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard
Castle with pointed towers on a rocky spur above the Lac d'Annecy, inhabited by the same family for centuries and furnished with period pieces.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard
The Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard sits on a rise above the village of Menthon-Saint-Bernard on the east shore of the Lac d'Annecy. It is an old medieval fortified house, enlarged over the centuries and restored in the 19th century in a neo‑Gothic style, with pointed roof towers.
The castle has been inhabited by the same family since the Middle Ages and houses furniture and décor from various periods. According to tradition, São Bernardo de Menthon was born there; he is the patron saint of mountaineers and gave his name to the Grand and Petit‑Saint‑Bernard passes.
The visit includes salons, a library and kitchens, and the terraces offer views of the lake and the mountains. During French school holidays there are family visits and events, such as the Château du Père Noël at the end of the year.
The castle is not open year‑round: the season usually runs from April to November, with more days in summer. Check opening days before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 1h30.
Best time
From July to early September, when it is usually open every day. In spring and autumn it opens fewer days a week, generally on weekends and public holidays. Check before you go.
How to get there
It is about 12 km from Annecy along the east shore of the lake. By car it takes about 20 minutes; there is also a bus to the village and, in season, a boat to the Menthon pier.
Tip
Combine with Talloires, a neighboring lakeside village. From the Menthon pier to the castle it's an uphill walk.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard
Is the castle open year-round?
No. The season usually runs from April to November; in summer it's open every day, and outside that season on fewer days. Check before you go.
Who is São Bernardo de Menthon?
The patron saint of mountaineers, who according to tradition was born at the castle. The passes of the Grand and Petit-Saint-Bernard are named after him.
How to get there without a car?
By bus to the village of Menthon-Saint-Bernard or, in season, by boat to the pier, then walk to the castle.