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Château de Vullierens

Switzerland

The architecture of Château de Vullierens, along with its magnificent gardens and sculpture park, constitute one of Switzerland’s most remarkable heritage sites, offering an incomparable 180° view of the Alps, Mont Blanc, and Lake Geneva. 
Château de Vullierens is considered a perfect example of early 18th-century Swiss architecture and was built on the foundations of a 13th-century fortified castle. The 100-hectare estate has remained in the same family for 700 years. Every year, it attracts thousands of visitors who are passionate about gardens and lovers of contemporary art and sculpture.

The flowering season begins with late tulips, followed by bluebells, rhododendrons, peonies, irises, alliums, roses, daylilies, hydrangeas, dahlias, among others, and ends with the autumn foliage of the estate’s century-old trees. The iris collection, started in 1955, is considered one of the most modern in Europe, with 400 varieties to choose from. Many award-winning American hybrids are featured, including several varieties of irises that bloom again in the fall. At the height of the season, thousands of flowers create an incomparable 4-hectare mosaic. The gardens and themed walks offer additional enjoyment, and the bridle path, lined with historic trees such as redwoods, oaks, and what is undoubtedly the oldest tulip tree in Switzerland, completes the floral display. Some of the trees were recognized as remarkable by the canton of Vaud.

The sculpture park features more than 100 large contemporary works by 31 Swiss and international artists, including Beverly Pepper, Alan Jones, Gillian White, Laura Ford, Dorothy Cross, Christian Lapie, Etienne Krahenbuhl, Manuel Torres, Pol Quadrens, Manuel Carbonnel, Mireille Fulpius, Carles Valverde, Herbert Mehler, and Werner Pokorny. It is open year-round by appointment.

The nearly 7-hectare vineyard is undergoing biodynamic conversion and the wines have obtained organic certification as well as numerous awards. The vines are planted with Arbane, Chasselas, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier, Petit Meslier, Pinot Noir, Gamaret, Garanoir, and Galotta. The estate’s six wines can be tasted free of charge at the estate, and the historic cellars are open to visitors. Wine tourism events are held regularly.

Visitors can enjoy two cafés, a shop, and exhibitions. A children’s trail completes the offering. Born of a generous nature sculpted by time, a kingdom reveals itself to children. A world made of nature, to touch, see, listen to, and feel. 

Château de Vullierens 

Les Jardins du Château de Vullierens
CH-1115 Vullierens

Switzerland

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