Valeyres Castle with shed, charcoal kiln, and laundry room

Château de Valeyres in Valeyres-sous-Rances is a former fortified manor in the canton of Vaud, known today mainly as a wine estate with a public tasting cellar. It stands in the Jura-Nord vaudois region, in a small village at the foot of the Jura, west of Lake Neuchâtel.

What is this castle, and what is its history?

The core of the building is a medieval fortified house of the de Gallera family, dated to the 15th century. The Manuel family bought it in 1629, and the wall paintings inside date from 1639. In 1707 it passed by marriage to the von Bonstetten family, which is why it was long called the "Maison de Bonstetten". Around 1820 it was remodelled in the neoclassical style. Sources disagree on the construction date: some describe a large Bernese-style house built in 1630, while the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland traces it back to the 15th century.

What can you see on site?

From the outside you see a solid, regular manor with neoclassical touches, surrounded by farm outbuildings. The heritage register lists the property as a complex with a shed, a charcoal kiln and a laundry house, the typical working base of a historic country estate. Interiors are private, so visits are limited to the wine side of the estate.

Can you taste wine here?

Yes. The estate has been a winery since 1945, when Alphonse Morel acquired it. His son Marc-Antoine ran it next, and since 2004 his grandson Benjamin has been in charge. The Château de Valeyres cellar welcomes visitors for tastings, on Saturday mornings according to the canton's tourism information. Confirm the hours with the producer before you go.

How do you get there?

Valeyres-sous-Rances lies near Orbe and Yverdon-les-Bains. Driving is easiest, about 40 minutes from Lausanne. By public transport, take a bus from Orbe and walk to the village centre, where the château stands.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and early autumn, when the vines are green and the weather suits walks in the surrounding hills. September and October bring the grape harvest.

Frequently asked questions

Can I go inside the castle? No. The building is a private residence and the winery's base. The tasting cellar is open to visitors.

How old is the castle? The oldest part is a 15th-century fortified house. Its present look comes from 17th-century works and the remodelling around 1820.

Who owns it? The Morel family, who have run it as a wine estate since 1945.

Is it the same as Domaine du Manoir? No. Domaine du Manoir is a different estate in the same village, with roots in the 15th century and former monastic land.