Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes · Haute-Savoie, France

Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard

A turreted vision above Lake Annecy that has never been sold: the Menthon family has held it for roughly a thousand years across some twenty generations. Birthplace of Saint Bernard of Menthon, patron of mountaineers and namesake of the Alpine passes and their famous dogs.

At a glance

Built: 12th century onwards
Style: Alpine castle turned romantic residence
Commissioned by: Menthon family
Signature feature: Turreted silhouette high above Lake Annecy
Continuity: c. 1,000 years in the same family — never sold
The saint: Birthplace of St Bernard of Menthon, patron of mountaineers
Library: Some 12,000 volumes, with medieval manuscripts
Visiting: Open to visitors (seasonal calendar)