The Vanel Castle Ruins

Perched atop a steep hill about a kilometre east of Rougemont, the ruins of Vanel Castle incite you to a journey into the region’s past. Its hilltop location affords superb views along the length of the valley.

Built in the tenth century by the Counts of Gruyère, the ancient fortified manor house constituted a considerable baronial edifice. Complete with towers, ramparts, battlements and drawbridge, it was was well able to withstand any potential siege and provide a refuge for the valley’s population.

The castle also served as a customs post; the only viable road leading to the strategic Mosses, Sanetsch and Pillon Passes ran right through its curtain wall. The castle was abandoned in 1407, having been besieged and sacked by the Bernese the previous year.

The ruins are now a classified historical monument.