The Vanel Castle Ruins
The remains of one the oldest castles built by the Counts of Gruyère stand not far from Rougemont.
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. 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.
Practical informations
The Ruines du Vanel can be reached from Rougemont via hiking trails offering beautiful views over the valley.
Access
From the centre of the village of Rougemont, access is on foot by following hiking trail number 11.
| The Vanel Castle Ruins |
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