Top 8 Castles around Bex
Best castles around Bex are situated in the Canton of Valais, a region characterized by its position at the entrance to the Saint-Maurice Gorge and proximity to the Rhône River. This area features a landscape of steep escarpments, river valleys, and vineyards. Historically, the region has been significant for military, judicial, and commercial activities, with many structures reflecting centuries of development. The castles here often served as strategic strongholds and administrative centers.
Best castles around Bex
- The most popular castles is Aigle Castle, a castle that was originally a fortified tower built in the 12th century. It became a prestigious residence for the Governors of Aigle and features painted decorations from the 16th and 17th centuries.
- Another must-see spot is Saillon Medieval Village, a historical site with a castle first mentioned in 1052. Visitors can explore the remnants of its past as a commercial and military base, including the Bayart keep and historical vineyards.
- Visitors also love Château de Saint-Maurice, an impressive castle built between the 15th and 17th centuries. It once played a significant role in military and judicial affairs and now hosts temporary exhibitions on drawing, press cartoons, and comics.
- Bex is known for its fortified castles, medieval villages with castle ruins, and historical residential castles. The region offers a variety of historical sites to see and explore, from strategic strongholds to cultural exhibition venues.
- The castles around Bex are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 210 upvotes and 27 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Château de Saint-Maurice
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Aigle Castle
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It was the Bernese, whose coat of arms still surmounts the entrance gate, who gave Aigle Castle its original appearance. They expanded the walls, built new buildings, and added apartments and administrative offices. Aigle Castle thus became not just a fortified castle but the prestigious residence of their representatives, the Governors of Aigle. Numerous painted decorations from the 16th and 17th centuries can be admired during a visit to Aigle Castle.
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Saillon Medieval Village
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First mentioned in 1052 as the castle of the Bishop of Sion. Under the rule of the Savoys, the town was one of the most important commercial and military bases in the Valais until 1475
Saillon's history begins early. Hunters from the Mesolithic period (ca. 10,000 - 5,500 BC) may have occupied the portal of the Poteu cave. However, excavations in the first half of the 20th century could not attest to their presence. Saillon was then continuously inhabited since the Neolithic period (Bourneaux's tomb, 4,000 BC) and the Bronze Age (around twenty tombs reported at the foot of the hill between the Salentze and Bourneaux rivers). The remains of an important Roman villa from the 2nd century near the Salentze river indicate the importance of the site at that time. On the same site, the first Christian sanctuary of Saillon was built in the 6th century. The foundations of the walls of this Carolingian church are still visible and the reworked chancel forms the current St. Lawrence Chapel. When anarchy and insecurity replaced the order that reigned in Charlemagne's empire, the population of Saillon retreated to the more easily defended hill. It is known that a castle stood in Saillon in 1052, as it was one of the properties donated to the Chapter of Sion by Bishop Aymon of Savoy. Its strategic location was of interest to Savoy, which took possession of Saillon at the beginning of the 13th century. Around 1260, Pierre II had the city walls reinforced and the Bayart keep built, whose name comes from Lady Bayart, the owner of the property. The Dukes of Savoy had the ambition to turn Saillon into a fairground that would provide shade for their enemy, the Bishop of Sion. It should also be noted that the first written mention of vines in Valais appears in 1052. The dream of glory came to an end in 1475 when patriots from Upper Valais took over Lower Valais and set fire to the Savoyard castles, including that of Saillon. From then on, the village quickly became a peaceful village in the countryside again
Text / Source: Association, The most beautiful Swiss villages, Lugano
borghisvizzera.ch/de/scheda/saillon
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Monthey
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Bayart Tower, Saillon Castle
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Tips from the Community
Superb. You can continue over the footbridge at Farinet with your mountain bike, descend to Leytron or climb to Ovronnaz and descend to Chamison.
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The descent from Chatel to Monthey is sensational! The other way around, however, is hell due to the traffic!
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Magnificent view and thrilling climb in the tower
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A must for cyclists, a magnificent place
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The Old Town hosts the market every Wednesday, the ideal place to take a little break
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photogenic castle complex, which can also be visited
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Monthey is located in the heart of the Chablais region at the gates of Val d'Illiez. It's a great starting point for your adventures in the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much time should I allocate for visiting castles around Bex?
Visiting a single castle, especially one with exhibitions like Château de Saint-Maurice or Aigle Castle, can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours. If you plan to explore the surrounding grounds, vineyards, or medieval villages like Saillon Medieval Village, you might want to dedicate half a day or more to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Bex?
Yes, several castles around Bex are considered family-friendly. Aigle Castle, with its rich history and painted decorations, offers an engaging experience for all ages. Château de Saint-Maurice often hosts temporary exhibitions that can appeal to families. Additionally, exploring the historical site of Saillon Medieval Village provides an interactive journey through history.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Bex?
The castles around Bex can be visited year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the castle grounds and nearby vineyards. Summer provides longer daylight hours, ideal for combining castle visits with other outdoor activities. During winter, the region takes on a different charm, though it's advisable to check specific castle opening hours as some may have reduced schedules.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region around Bex offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find excellent gravel biking routes, such as the 'Aigle Castle – Illarsaz Suspension Bridge loop'. For road cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous road cycling routes, including scenic loops from Saint-Maurice. If you prefer running, explore the running trails, like the 'Scenic Forest Gravel Path loop from Pont-Neuf'.
Are there cafes or restaurants near the castles?
Yes, you will typically find cafes and restaurants in the towns or villages where the castles are located. For instance, Aigle Castle is situated in the town of Aigle, which offers dining options. Similarly, Saillon Medieval Village and Monthey have local establishments where you can enjoy a meal or a coffee.
What historical significance do the castles around Bex hold?
The castles around Bex, located in the Canton of Valais, have significant historical importance. They often served as strategic strongholds, administrative centers, and commercial bases due to the region's position at the entrance to the Saint-Maurice Gorge and proximity to the Rhône River. Castles like Château de Saint-Maurice played crucial roles in military and judicial affairs, while Aigle Castle became a prestigious residence for governors.
Can I reach the castles around Bex by public transport?
Switzerland has an excellent public transport network. Many castles, especially those located within or near towns like Aigle or Saint-Maurice, are accessible by train or bus. It's recommended to check local transport schedules for the most convenient routes to specific castle locations.
What should I wear when visiting castles in the Bex region?
For castle visits in the Bex region, it's advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes, as you may encounter uneven terrain, stairs, and extensive grounds. Dressing in layers is also recommended, as temperatures can vary, especially when exploring both indoor and outdoor areas. Check the weather forecast before your visit to prepare for sun, rain, or cooler temperatures.
Are there viewpoints near the castles around Bex?
Many castles in the region offer excellent viewpoints due to their strategic locations. Aigle Castle, for example, provides views over the surrounding vineyards and the Dents du Midi. Château de Saint-Maurice, perched on the Saint-Maurice Gorge, also offers impressive vistas of the Rhône River and the steep escarpment.
Are dogs allowed at the castles around Bex?
Generally, dogs are often allowed on the outdoor grounds of castles but may be restricted from entering indoor exhibition areas or historical buildings. It's best to check the specific rules for each castle you plan to visit beforehand. Always keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.
What makes the castles around Bex unique?
The castles around Bex are unique due to their diverse architectural styles, reflecting centuries of development from fortified towers to prestigious residences. They are often nestled amidst stunning natural landscapes, including vineyards and river valleys, offering a blend of history and scenic beauty. Many, like Château de Saint-Maurice, have adapted to host cultural exhibitions, adding a modern dimension to their historical significance.
Are there any less crowded castles to visit around Bex?
While popular sites like Aigle Castle and Château de Saint-Maurice can attract crowds, exploring the broader historical context of the region, such as the remnants of Saillon Medieval Village, might offer a more tranquil experience, especially during off-peak hours or seasons. Monthey also features historical sites including a 'new castle' that might be less frequented.
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