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About this place
Bâtie-Beauregard is a ruined hilltop castle in the municipality of Collex-Bossy, north of Geneva, close to the village of Bossy. It is one of the few surviving traces of medieval fortifications in the canton of Geneva.
What is Bâtie-Beauregard?
The French name roughly means "building with a fine view". The stronghold stood on the right bank of Lake Geneva and protected the northern edge of the lands held by the lords of Gex. It is first documented in 1299, while the lordship itself was founded around 1270, according to the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland. Sources disagree on exact construction dates, so treat them as approximate.
What is its history?
Over time the site was known as Bâtie-Champion, Bâtie-sur-Versoix and simply La Bâtie. Today the spot is called La Vieille-Bâtie, "the old Bâtie". The fief passed through the families of Compey, Menthon, Champion, Crose, Gillier and Vasserot. Michel de Gillier bought the lands and the title of baron from the heirs of the Champion and Crose lines.
The castle ended its days during the wars of religion. Genevan forces captured it in 1589 and pulled it down the following year. Only ruins remain.
The lordship of Bâtie-Beauregard covered three defensive points: the castle itself, a fortified house at Collex and another at Le Vengeron.
Can you visit the ruins?
The land is private and, as far as published information goes, closed to visitors. Check local access rules before you go and respect any fences. The site works best as a short stop during a walk or bike ride around Collex-Bossy and Genthod.
How do you get there?
Collex-Bossy lies in the canton of Geneva, a short drive from the city centre and Geneva airport. A car or bicycle is the easiest option; from there, explore the countryside around Bossy village.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Bâtie-Beauregard? In the municipality of Collex-Bossy, canton of Geneva, Switzerland.
When was the castle destroyed? Geneva took it in 1589 and demolished it in 1590.
Does the castle still stand? No. Only ruins remain at the place called La Vieille-Bâtie.
Can I walk in freely? No. The site is private and normally not open to the public.
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