Switzerland
Discovering Gruyères
by Daniel Smajovits
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the Gruyères region provides an enchanting experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure, promising a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Anchored by the medieval town of Gruyères, no visit to the region is complete without stops at both La Maison Cailler and La Maison du Gruyère for indulgence in chocolate and cheese respectively.
La Maison Cailler
Located in the picturesque town of Broc, La Maison Cailler is a testament to the country’s rich chocolate-making tradition. Established in 1898, Cailler is Switzerland’s oldest chocolate brand, and La Maison Cailler offers an immersive experience into the world of Swiss chocolate. The interactive visitor center takes guests on an exciting journey through the history and production of the country’s best chocolate, complete with unlimited tastings.
La Maison du Gruyère
No visit to Gruyères is complete without a taste of its world-famous cheese. In production since 1115, a visit to La Maison du Gruyère will allow you to discover the secrets behind its delicious flavor. Visitors can observe the entire production process, from the milking of cows to the aging of cheese. Large windows provide a clear view of the cheesemakers at work, and panels explain each step of the process. Your admission includes three cheese samples – aged at 3, 6 and 12 months – allowing you to discover for yourself what makes the cheese so unique.
Gruyères
A beautiful hike or short drive from La Maison du Gruyère is the heart of the region: the medieval town of Gruyères. The town will transport you back into the Middle Ages, serving as a perfect example of how Switzerland looked and felt in the 13th century. Home to La Château de Gruyères, the HR Giger Museum, The Tibetan Museum and Le Calvaire, in addition to a host of restaurants and hotels, you can spend an afternoon or multiple days exploring, hiking and truly getting to know this incredible region.
Depending on when you visit Gruyères, you might be lucky enough to partake in one of the region’s famous festivals, such as their annual Medieval Festival, Cheese Festival or the bi-annual Double Cream Festival. Each highlights the region’s incredible culture and history.
Before booking your trip, we recommend investing in the new DayPass La Gruyère, which includes admission to three most popular attractions of La Gruyère: Maison Cailler, the Gruyères Castle and La Maison du Gruyère. Passholders also receive priority access, allowing you to skip most lines. Should you not have your own transportation, the pass includes all local public transport as well.
From Geneva, the drive to the Gruyères region is just over one hour, however, there is regular train service between Geneva Cornavin via Lausanne and the region. Should you opt to drive, there is ample parking at the base of the medieval city of Gruyères as well as at both La Maison Cailler and La Maison du Gruyère.
Gruyères is more than just a picturesque town; it’s a cultural and historical gem set amidst the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps. Whether you’re drawn by its rich history, unique museums, outdoor activities, or culinary delights, Gruyères promises an unforgettable experience that caters to all types of travelers.
