Situated in the heart of the Valais region of Switzerland, Château de Sion is a stunning medieval castle that is steeped in history. The castle, which dates back to the 12th century, is a popular tourist destination and offers a wealth of activities for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the castle’s many rooms and towers to admiring the breathtaking views of the Rhone Valley, here are 10 things to do in Château de Sion.
1. Tour the Castle
The best way to explore the castle is to take a guided tour. During the tour, visitors will get to learn all about the castle’s history and architecture, as well as visit some of the castle’s most impressive rooms and towers.
2. Visit the Castle Museum
The Château de Sion Museum is located in the castle’s old granary and showcases a variety of artifacts from the castle’s history. Visitors can learn about the castle’s past inhabitants, the development of the castle over the centuries, and the castle’s role in the region’s history.
3. Admire the Views
The castle’s location provides stunning views of the Rhone Valley and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can admire the views from the castle’s terrace or from the top of the castle’s towers.
4. Explore the Gardens
The castle’s gardens are a great place to relax and take in the views. The gardens are filled with a variety of plants and flowers, and feature a number of pathways and benches for visitors to explore.
5. Take a Wine Tour
The Valais region is known for its wine production, and visitors can take a tour of the local wineries to learn all about the region’s wines. Tours can be booked at the castle, and visitors can sample some of the region’s best wines.
6. Visit the Local Markets
The local markets in the Valais region are a great place to pick up some local produce and souvenirs. Visitors can browse the stalls and sample some of the region’s delicious specialties.
7. Go Hiking
The surrounding area is a great place for hiking, and visitors can explore the region’s many trails. There are trails for all levels of hikers, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
8. Visit the Local Churches
The Valais region is home to a number of churches, including the Church of St. Maurice, which dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore the churches and learn about their history.
9. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
The Valais region is known for its delicious cuisine, and visitors can enjoy a variety of local specialties such as fondue and raclette. There are a number of restaurants in the area that serve traditional Valais dishes.
10. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
For a unique experience, visitors can take a hot air balloon ride over the Valais region. The views from the balloon are spectacular, and visitors can admire the stunning views of the Rhone Valley and the surrounding mountains.
Château de Sion is a stunning castle that is filled with history and offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the castle’s many rooms and towers to admiring the breathtaking views of the Rhone Valley, there are plenty of things to do in Château de Sion.