Destination Léman
Perched opposite each other on the same hill, the ruins of Château-Neuf and Château-Vieux offer a sight that is as striking as it is unexpected. It is hard to imagine that, in days gone by, these two neighbouring fortresses engaged in actual battles, hurling stones at one another using catapults… and yet, their walls still bear the marks of this rivalry.
Rising to an altitude of 717 metres, the Châteaux des Allinges viewpoint offers a 360° panorama that ranks among the most remarkable in the region. The view takes in:
Nestled between lake and mountains, the site invites visitors to contemplate and explore a landscape shaped by millions of years of history, from the Molassic Sea to the great Alpine glaciers.
The ruins of Château-Neuf and Château-Vieux overlook the Allinges hill, bearing witness to a rich and eventful medieval past. These two strongholds, both neighbours and rivals, have left their mark on local history through their conflicts.
The site also played an important role in the late 16th century. It served as a residence for Saint Francis de Sales (1567–1622) during his evangelising mission between 1594 and 1598, following the reconquest of the region by the Duke of Savoy. Even today, the place retains a spiritual dimension and remains a site of pilgrimage.
In the heart of Château-Neuf, the 11th-century Romanesque chapel is a major heritage site. Listed as a Historic Monument, it houses an ancient fresco in its semi-circular apse, a valuable artistic and historical artefact.
To really explore the area, the “Boucle des châteaux” is the perfect walk.