Winetouristic stroll in the region of Morges
From the villages in the Morges vineyards, there is a fantastic view of Lake Geneva, the medieval town and, weather permitting, Mont-Blanc, which is exactly opposite. The winetouristic hike in this picture postcard scenery offers a fun discovery of the region, its specialties and wines. Starting out from Vufflens and its impressive castle, the free app called Vaud:Guide shows you the way along approx. 4 miles (most of which is in the vineyards and some in the town of Morges) and about thirty historic, unique and must-see sites. Each of these sites presents a challenge to participants, who can reply to multiple-choice questions, find a specific location thanks to their GPS or make a selfie in front of a beautiful panorama. All this can make you win points! For novices: Don’t panic. The answers are quite straightforward for those with an observant eye.
Balade oenotouristique de Morges (Raphaël Dupertuis)
Balades Oenotouristique Morges - Keystory ST été 2019 (© Schweiz Tourismus / Giglio Pasqua)
Balade oenotouristique (© Suisse Tourisme)
Dégustation vin (© Suisse Tourisme)
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swiss fountains
Fountains played a major part in village life because women and children made their way to them every morning and evening. Responsibility for these water sources was entrusted to the "fontainiers" or fountain superintendents, who limited the time allocated for cleaning tasks so as to guarantee that water for drinking would remain clean.
Most of the region's fountains date back to the mid-19th century. They all feature the same design with large, low basins to provide easy access for watering the animals and for cleaning work. When drinking water became available in households towards the end of the 19th century, the fountains ceased to be public utilities and instead, became much-appreciated decorative monuments.
19th century fountains (@CVM)
19th century fountains (@CVM)
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Departure station for the train MBC
There is usually a MBC train once per hour during the week, and once every two hours on Sunday. The journey lasts 6 minutes and you alight at the fifth stop, "Le Marais" station, which is just after the "Vufflens-le-Château" station.
Departure station for the BAM ( (©BAM)
Gare MBC - Le Marais (@CVM)
Departure station for the BAM (@CVM)
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Temple of Vufflens-le-Château
The Temple of Vufflens-le-Château was built in 1864 on the site of the former church, which could not be restored. The only remnant of the old church is one of the two bells dating from the 15th century. In those days, before the Protestant reformation, most of the inhabitants of the Pays de Vaud belonged to the Catholic faith. The bell's age and an inscription – Sanctre Petre, ora pro nobis (Saint Peter, pray for us) – lend it a unique character. An enlarged reproduction of the engraving can be viewed at the rear of the Temple.
Temple of Vufflens-le-Château (@CVM)
Temple of Vufflens-le-Château (@CVM)
Temple of Vufflens-le-Château (@CVM)
Temple of Vufflens-le-Château (@CVM)
Temple of Vufflens-le-Château (@CVM)
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Wines from the House of Bolle
The Domaine du Plessis at Vufflens-le-Château, owned by the Bolle family, welcomes you to taste its wines.
The Domaine du Plessis at Vufflens-le-Château forms part of the prestigious heritage of the House of Bolle, which was founded in 1865.
Chasselas, Gamay, Pinot Noir, Gamaret, Garanoir and Chardonnay: Bolle grows all these varieties of white and red grapes on the six hectares of clay-limestone soil that make up the domain. Discover them all on the spot, where tastings are held every Tuesday. If you like very subtle white wines with a long mineral finish, Chasselas is ideal for you. Lovers of fruity red wines will be enchanted by the Pinot Noir that is matured in oak barrels.
As well as the Domaine du Plessis, the House of Bolle operates the Château de Vufflens vineyard and the Domaine de Sarraux-Dessous in the commune of Begnins. A total of 44 hectares of vineyards are cultivated in compliance with environmental standards and on the basis of integrated production.
Experts at the House of Bolle also share their passion for wine at "La Licorne", a wine centre at Morges where over 500 vintages from all over the world are on sale.
Wines from the House of Bolle (@CVM)
Wines from the House of Bolle (@CVM)
Wines from the House of Bolle (@CVM)
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Domaine de la Balle et des Abbesses
The perey family were already cultivating grapevines in Vufflens-Le-Château in the 15th century.
The domain has been passed down through generations and has grown during the years. As of 1981, Michel Perey begins to run a part of the family domain and dedicates his time, in particular to viticulture. In 1985 he re-creates a wine cellar and wine stocking, which had ceased in 1929. The Domaine de la Balle is born. In 2006, his wife Suzanne, opened a small “Pinte” (a bar in Switzerland) to enhance the domain’s products. In 2009, following their training to be cellarwomen and winegrowers, Solange and Lucie Perey highlight the magnificent Domaine des Abbesses in Echandens.
These vine and wine enthusiasts have the pleasure in hosting wine tasting at the Domaine de la Balle in Vufflens-Le-Château or at the Domaine des Abbesses in Echandens. Visitors are welcome during the estate’s opening hours or upon request. There are various packages offering wine tastings served with local products or even full menus. Certified by Vaud Œnotourisme (Vaud Wine Tourism), the Perey family offers these gourmet moments both at Domaine de la Balle and Domaine des Abbesses.
Domaine de la Balle et des Abesses (©Suisse Tourisme)
Domaine de la Balle et des Abesses (©Suisse Tourisme)
Domaine de la Balle et des Abesses
Domaine de la Balle et des Abesses
Domaine de la Balle et des Abesses
Domaine de la Balle (© Domaine de la Balle)
Domaine de la Balle (© Domaine de la Balle)
Domaine de la Balle (© Domaine de la Balle)
Domaine des Abesses (© Domaine des Abesses)
Domaine des Abesses (© Domaine des Abesses)
Domaine des Abesses (© Domaine des Abesses)
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Covered picnic area
A picnic site is provided for walkers in the heart of the village of Chigny: set back from a residential road, the site is protected by a small roof so it is available in all weathers. Two benches and a table can be used to eat or enjoy an impromptu aperitif during a well-deserved break!
Covered picnic area (©cvm)
Covered picnic area (@CVM)
Covered picnic area (@CVM)
Covered picnic area (@CVM)
Covered picnic area (©CVM)
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Beehives
The lucky bees in this apiary only have to fly a few meters to savour the nectars from the orchards and vines that belong to the "Agrilogie" school on the Marcelin site.
Like many of their colleagues in the French-speaking region of Switzerland, the beekeepers at this apiary carry out two seasonal harvests: in spring for flower honey and in summer for tree honey.
It is impossible to estimate the number of bees that inhabit the ten hives in the site, but there are an average of 40,000 bees per hive – more than enough for a "big buzz"!
Bees are sweet little creatures, but even so – take care as you approach the hives! The apiarists are present on the site on the evening of the first Wednesday in every month, when they will be happy to share information about their passion with you.
Ruches d’abeilles (@CVM)
Bienenstöcke (@CVM)
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Agrilogie Marcelin training centre
The enormous Marcelin site above Morges is home to three training centres including the "Agrilogie". This school trains a thousand young farmers, wine-growers, cellar masters and orchardists.
The practice-based training largely takes place on the land. Students of viticulture tend the white and red grape varieties at the Domaine de Marcelin, which cover more than seven hectares. The wine obtained from them is vinified and sold on site.
The "Magaz’à vin" shop opens in the evening on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays and on Saturday morning. The shop also sells fruit grown by the students in the huge orchards that also belong to the "Agrilogie".
Agrilogie Marcelin training centre (@CVM)
Agrilogie Marcelin training centre (@CVM)
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The "capite": a vineyard hut
This exclusively Swiss term refers to a small, isolated house or a sentry post. In viticulture, the "capite" is a modest hut where wine-growers would take a break during their long working days. Later on, some "capites" were converted into storage facilities while others were transformed into charming venues for tastings, places to gather with friends or even accommodation with views of the lake and the vines.
The "capite": a vineyard hut (@CVM)
The "capite": a vineyard hut (@CVM)
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Cave du Signal
Mr. Lionel Widmer welcomes you to Echichens to discover and taste the wines of the Cave du Signal.
Dégustation de vin (© Cave du Signal)
La terrasse (© Cave du Signal)
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A wine vat
Vats are used to mature the wine after it has fermented, until it is bottled. They are made of different materials and their capacity varies.
Vats made of stainless steel, cement or ordinary steel have longer lifetimes and are easier to maintain. They are used for short-term vinification and their neutral composition allows all the fruity aromas of the wine to be preserved.
Wooden vats are known by various names: barrels, casks, kegs or puncheons. Casks have limited capacity – about 225 litres – and they can only be kept for three or four years. A barrel is made from an assembly of thicker woods so as to extend its lifetime, while a keg usually has a large capacity of 1,000 to 15,000 litres. Wooden vats are greatly appreciated for the vinification of red grape varieties. They allow the wine to breathe, thereby encouraging it to mature. The wine becomes impregnated with the deep vanilla aromas of the wood over several months, giving it an intense feel in the mouth.
Cave du Signal (© MRT)
A wine vat (@CVM)
A wine vat (@CVM)
A wine vat (@CVM)
A wine vat (@CVM)
A wine vat (@CVM)
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Sibò
Every month, in addition to the traditional menu, a special menu will be suggested to let you discover the traditional cuisine of a region. Pizzas are prepared by a real pizzaoili and the pasta is handmade before you, just like my grandmother used to do. Our products are selected with care and the majority come directly from Italy.
Sibò restaurant (© Sibò)
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Superb view of the lake and Morges
Enjoy a superb vista of Lake Geneva, the town of Morges and (in fine weather) Mont Blanc, the mythical peak of the French Alps.
Lake Geneva, Europe's largest lake, takes its French name (Léman) from the Celtic language; it means "large water". The lake was formed when the Rhone glacier retreated, and it stretches from Valais to Geneva; it shares its surface area between Switzerland (with about 60%) and France. In summer, its shores welcome water sports enthusiasts and bathers.
From this viewing pulpit, you can also admire the charming town of Morges. The lake shores at Morges were already inhabited in the Bronze Age; the submerged remains of these dwellings built on piles are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Morges itself, and its famous castle, were founded in the Middle Ages by the eminent Savoy family.
Nowadays, the town of Morges has over 15,000 inhabitants and is renowned for its lifestyle: gastronomy, wines and numerous events are just some of the attractions it offers.
Les vignes du Signal (© Cave du Signal)
Signal d'Echichens (Marc Baertsch)
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Bus-Stop : En Grassiaz
If you want to continue your wine tourism walk through the old town of Morges, you can take the 704 bus to Morges train station stop. The bus stop here every 15 minutes, according to the timetable posted at the bus stop. You pass 6 bus stops before reaching your destination.
Échichens (© Rodriguez)
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History of gas lanterns
The French word for gas lantern – "réverbère" – originates from the Latin verb "reverbere", which means "to hit". Technically speaking, the light from the lamp is magnified when it "hits" mirrors in the lantern. Ever since towns came into being, people have always sought a solution for public lighting that is aesthetically pleasing as well as safe. The Romans pursued this quest by setting up a system of lighting for the main city districts with the help of torches and oil lamps. The use of reflective lanterns for public lighting dates back to the start of the 19th century: the gas lanterns that were used back then had to be lit by hand every day.
History of gas lanterns (©CVM)
History of gas lanterns (©CVM)
History of gas lanterns (Bailly Vincent)
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History of Protestantism and Catholicism in Switzerland
Switzerland played a key part in the history of Protestantism thanks to two major figures who helped to introduce and spread it: one was Ulrich Zwingli, who introduced the "reformation" in Switzerland during the 1520s with the backing of the city of Zurich; the other was Calvin, who was concerned to promote Protestant unity from his base in Geneva, in opposition to other Swiss cities, the German Lutherans and the Anglicans.
The history of Protestantism's evolution in Switzerland was shaped by many struggles (such as the Kappel War in 1531 and the Thirty Years' War in Europe) and by the "counter-reformation". Nowadays, Berne is the only canton that has retained a strong Protestant majority (72%). In the Lake Geneva Region (Canton of Vaud), Protestants account for about 50% of the population while Catholics represent 30%. The Canton of Geneva is bi-denominational, with a majority of Roman Catholics in relative terms.
History of Protestantism and Catholicism in Switzerland (©CVM)
History of Protestantism and Catholicism in Switzerland (©CVM)
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Tanners' district
Leatherworkers played a major part in the economy of Morges during the 15th and 16th centuries, and the tanners followed in their footsteps from the early 18th century onwards. This district near the lake attracted these craftsmen, after whom Rue des Tanneurs is named.
In 1793, three craftsmen simultaneously rebuilt their adjacent houses at the start of Rue des Tanneurs. The building in the middle is particularly noticeable because of its three-storey rear façade, fronted by wooden galleries. Its owner in those days, François Guibert, added a hat factory and a tannery to his house.
Tanners' district (©CVM)
Tanners' district (©CVM)
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Protestant Church
Present since 1306, the Protestant church of Morges was rebuilt in accordance with Erasme Ritter’s plans, between 1769 and 1771. After an accidental subsidence of the façade, Léonard Roux from Lyon, was put in charge with new plans. This key monument in Morges is today classified as being of national cultural importance.
The church organises classical and organ music concerts throughout the year.
Le Temple protestant de Morges (© MRT)
Le Temple protestant (© Sacha Fehlmann)
Le Temple protestant (© Grégoire Chappuis)
Le Temple protestant en hiver (© John Golay)
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View of Mont Blanc
Although Mont Blanc is over 80 km away on the other side of Lake Geneva and across the frontier, this famous peak can be seen very clearly from the jetties at Morges if the weather is fine. So it is not surprising that the lakeshore promenade between the landing-stage and the castle have taken the name of "Quais du Mont-Blanc".
Rising to over 4800 meters, Mont Blanc is the highest summit in the Alpine range and in all of Western Europe. It is silhouetted majestically between Mont Ouzon and Mont Billiat, two French peaks which are not as high but are closer to the shores of the lake.
View of Mont Blanc (©Sacha Fehlmann)
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Morges Town Hall
The origins of this mansion which houses the administration of Morges probably date back to the foundation of the town itself. The municipality of Morges acquired the two private buildings in 1510. They were combined as the Town Hall, and they have been home to the political life of Morges since 1518. Originally, the building also contained an inn and some shops which later made way for the "corn market". Some years later, the commune felt that its accommodation was too cramped, so it bought the neighbouring house and rebuilt it in 1620, when it became an integral part of the Town Hall.
Apart from the very modern renovation work that was undertaken recently, Morges Town Hall is unique because of its impressive polygonal tower, an unusual structure in an urban setting. It is definitely the oldest local authority building in the canton and it stands out as a major example of Gothic architecture.
Hôtel-de-ville de Morges (©ChristopheCosset)
Morges Town Hall (©Mathieu Chollet)
Town Hall Morges (©Mathieu Chollet)
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Paderewski Museum
Located in the old Bernese granary from 1991 to 2016, the Paderewski Museum is now established in Morges' Castle and displays a new design which is both modern and interactive.
Since spring 2023, an audio-described version of the exhibition offers the visually impaired the possibility of receiving the museum's content on their smartphone, by scanning the Vocaléo tags.
The renowned Polish pianist, composer and statesman Ignacy Jan Paderewski lived in Morges from 1897 until 1940, the year before his death.
The museum brings memories of this musician and politician alive with the help of archived documents, a huge library, recordings and some of Paderewski's belongings. Discover his story, and learn how this pianist became a true hero of the Polish cause during his country's most difficult years.
Paderewski Museum (Mathieu Chollet)
Paderewski Museum (Mathieu Chollet)
Paderewski Museum (© MRT)
Paderewski Museum (© Thematis SA)
Paderewski Museum (© Thematis SA)
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Lydia von Auw's birthplace
Seen from outside, this house (which was rebuilt in 1769) looks the same as the neighbouring buildings. But when you push the heavy front door open, you will discover an unexpected area: an enormous courtyard with a staircase turret. On each floor, the steps open onto a gallery which gives access to the two wings of the building. Formerly, the northern section abutted against the surrounding wall that used to protect the mediaeval town.
Lydia von Auw, the first female pastor in the Lake Geneva Region, was born in this house in 1897. This pioneering figure had a dual career as a pastor and a renowned historian. Residents and tradespeople in the Grand-Rue still remember this great lady who lived in Morges for nearly 100 years.
Lydia von Auw's birthplace (©CVM)
Lydia von Auw's birthplace (©CVM)
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Domaine Henri Cruchon
Domaine Henri Cruchon is above all a know-how passed down from generation to generation, a passion that encourages innovation and respect of the product, which in turn creates subtle and high-quality wines.
On the estate, the work is carried out as a family, with respect for the grapes and the environment.
Convinced of the importance of quality grapes, grown in a healthy and natural environment, Henri Cruchon and his sons turned to biodynamics in the year 2000. Today, some thirty of the 42 hectares of vines are cultivated according to this demanding method, which prohibits all chemical products and protects the ecosystems.
Among the 34 wines, made from 16 different grape varieties, several vintages are regularly praised by the media or professional competitions.
To remember: the pinot blanc, the chasselas Les Peytolères, the Noblesse de chardonnay and especially the pinot noir Le Raissenaz Grand Cru.
To taste these nectars, the Cruchon family welcomes visitors to their large and welcoming cellar, from Monday to Saturday, or by appointment for workshops or group tasting sessions.
Cave du Domaine Henri Cruchon (© Catherine Cruchon)
La famille Cruchon (© Pontus Wallstén)
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Castle of Vufflens (private)
Dating from the 15th century, Vufflens Castle is the most significant example of a small group of fortified Romandy castles from the middle ages, characterised above all by its brick construction. This impressive edifice with its donjon towering 60m, is privately owned and unfortunately is not open for public viewing. A pleasant 30 minute-walk through the vineyards between Vufflens-le-Château and Denens, offers a stunning view of this magnificent castle, the lake and the Mont-Blanc. There is also a possibility to combine walking and the train, with the MBC train, linking Bière, Apples and Morges.
(© Sacha fehlmann)
(© John Golay)
L'hiver au Château de Vufflens (© Jacques Schmid)
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Commune de Vufflens-le-Château
The castle of Vufflens, built in the 15th century, represents the most outstanding example of a small group of Vaud castles dating from the Late Middle Ages, above all characteristic because they were built of bricks.
This impressive building with its 60 metres donjon is a private property and unfortunately not open to visitors. But one can very well admire it from the outside.
An agreeable promenade of 30 minutes through the vineyards between Vufflens-le-Château and Denens offers a splendid view on this magnificent castle, Lake Geneva and Mont-Blanc. There is also the possibility to combine a walk with a train ride on the railway line BAM between Bière, Apples and Morges.
Vufflens Le Château (© Vincent Bailly)
(© Commune de Vufflens-le-Château)
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Échichens
Situated between Jura and Lake Geneva, facing the Mont Blanc, Échichens benefits from a privileged situation. The commune is close to Morges. Its elegant white church, built in 1893, can be admired thanks to its hillside situation (465 metres above sea level) between the vineyards.
There are three winemakers working in their wine cellar and one winegrower who deal with 30 hectares of vineyard and produce high-quality wine. They are widely known and appreciated for their work, originally working for the Morges appellation.
The numerous events (athletic, artistic, theatrical, social), organized by the six enterprises, artists or craftsmen, show that Échichens is a lively village. At Echichens there are also three establishments of public and regional utility: Cité radieuse, École Pestalozzi, EMS Fondation Silo and also the bakery-grocery and the Café Vaudois with its beautiful terrace.
At Echichens there is also a place called Le Signal. In former times this place was used as an intermediate station for visual signals such as fire signals. They were used in order to alert in case of war. Nowadays, Le Signal d’Échichens is a magnificent outlook on the vineyards, Lake Geneva and the Alps.
(© Vincent Bailly)
Marché Cité Radieuse Echichens (© Cité radieuse)
(© Commune d'Échichens)
Signal d'Echichens (Marc Baertsch)
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