At the foot of the Vaud Alps, vineyards and mountain scenery meet in Aigle. The vineyards lie on steep slopes and terraces, offering views of the surrounding mountains. Aigle’s wine-growing region stretches between the Alps and Lake Geneva and covers approximately 135 hectares. Chasselas is its signature grape variety. This is a chance to discover two sides of the region: the landscape of the vineyards and the wine culture reflected in its museum, cellars and tastings.

Castle, Museum and Old Town

Château d’Aigle dates from the late 12th century, is part of Aigle’s cultural heritage and is surrounded by vineyard terraces. The castle houses the Musée de la vigne, du vin, de l'étiquette. Its collections are organized around five themes: viticulture, visual arts and imagery, wine drinking, the winegrower and their work, and wine labels. The museum’s perspective therefore spans everything from cultivation and the people involved to the enjoyment of wine and the design of labels. Numerous temporary exhibitions complement the collection; the program may change.

Espace Graffenried also combines exhibitions with historic architecture: it presents temporary exhibitions in a renovated former town hall dating from the 16th century. Admission is free, and public guided tours are also available. As the program may change, it is worth checking the dates before your visit.

A stroll through the old town reveals the arcades of Rue Jérusalem, fountains and sculptures. The Cloître district is one of the oldest inhabited areas of Aigle. For a different perspective, follow the Balade des arbres remarquables: starting at the tourist office, it takes you to 22 remarkable trees in Aigle. While the old-town walk focuses on architectural details, this route puts the trees in the spotlight.

Wine, Tastings and Local Products

The wine cellars in Aigle offer a variety of wine-tasting options; offerings may change. One wine-tourism experience begins with a self-guided visit to the Musée de la vigne et du vin and continues with a sharing platter of local specialties and two glasses of regional wine. A visit to the Hugo-Reitzel factory introduces visitors to the production of gherkins, pearl onions, mustard and other products from Aigle. The experience ends with a tasting of Reitzel products at the HUGO Shop. Check the visit and booking conditions in advance.

Trails and Active Exploration

Summer hiking trails in Aigle lead from the old town’s historic lanes to sunny ridges above the Rhône plain. Several signposted routes for hiking, Nordic walking, running and mountain biking start at the Glariers sports area; distances range from 2 to 40 kilometers. This lets you choose your preferred distance as well as activity. The Sentier des vignes connects the most beautiful vineyards and main tourist attractions of the Chablais. A hiking route from Yvorne to Ollon also passes through the Chablais vineyards and Aigle.

Cycling enthusiasts can visit the UCI World Cycling Centre independently or as part of a guided tour. The permanent exhibition showcases bicycles from various cycling disciplines; a guided tour also includes a walk around the sports facilities. Visit options and tour content may change. In the forest, Parc Aventure Aigle offers twelve courses, including four designed especially for children aged 4 to 7. Piscine d'Aigle has a 50-meter Olympic-size swimming pool; access may vary by season.

Getting to Aigle

Aigle is about half an hour by train from Lausanne; journey times and schedules may change. By car, take the A9 and exit at Aigle, exit 17. When choosing your stay, you can weigh up the different options: the castle and exhibitions, wine tastings, walks or sporting activities.

Discover More Destinations

Gryon, Leysin, Villars-Sur-Ollon, Barboleusaz, Aigle, Villeneuve Vd, Bex, Les Mosses, Corbeyrier, Ollon Vd, Ormont-Dessous, Ormont-Dessus, Roche Vd, Lavey-Morcles, Yvorne, Chessel, Lavey-Les-Bains

For the broader travel overview: Vaud.