Boudry Castle

Boudry Castle (Château de Boudry) crowns a natural rise above the small town of Boudry in the canton of Neuchâtel, in French-speaking Switzerland. It houses the Museum of Vine and Wine, which makes it a natural stop on the wine route along Lake Neuchâtel.

What is the castle and how old is it?

The fortress has roots in the 12th or 13th century, depending on the source, and appears in written records from the early 14th century. It soon passed under the control of the counts of Neuchâtel. Over the centuries it was partly demolished, extended and reworked, so the building mixes several eras. In the 18th century it faced demolition. Local winegrowers saved it: the Compagnie des Vignolants du Vignoble Neuchâtelois took it on, and major restoration work in the 1950s turned it into the Maison du Vignoble neuchâtelois.

What can you see inside?

The Musée de la vigne et du vin opened here in 1957 and is regarded as the first Swiss museum devoted entirely to the history of viticulture. Highlights include:

• a Roman mosaic of a symposium at the entrance,
• two historic wine presses,
• one of Jean Lurçat's largest tapestries, showing a grape harvest,
• displays on cooperage and the economic role of winegrowing,
• temporary exhibitions.

The castle also hosts the cantonal Œnothèque, where you can learn about and taste Neuchâtel wines.

How do you get there?

Boudry lies a few kilometres west of the city of Neuchâtel. The easiest way is by tram or train from Neuchâtel, followed by a short walk up to the castle hill from the town centre. The coordinates are roughly 46.949 N, 6.834 E.

When is the best time to visit?

The museum generally opens Wednesday to Sunday in the afternoon, but hours and ticket prices change, so check the museum's site before you go. Spring and early autumn work best: the surrounding vineyards are green, and the grape harvest runs in September and October.

What else fits into the visit?

Boudry has a historic centre with narrow lanes, and trails run between the vineyards with views of the lake. Pair the castle with a tasting at a local winery or a day in Neuchâtel.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit the museum inside Boudry Castle?

Yes. The Musée de la vigne et du vin occupies the castle and welcomes visitors in the afternoon, Wednesday to Sunday. Confirm current hours before travelling.

What language is spoken in Boudry?

Boudry is in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, so signs and conversation are mainly in French. In tourist spots you can usually get by in English too.

Can you taste wine here?

Yes. The castle houses the cantonal Œnothèque, and the area has many wineries offering tastings of Neuchâtel wines.

How long should you plan for?

The museum takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Add a walk through the town and the vineyards, and half a day is comfortable.