Château de Tourbillon is a late-13th-century castle now standing in ruins atop a steep rocky hill about 182 m above the city of Sion in Switzerland's Valais canton, long the residence of the Prince-Bishops of Sion. Burnt in the 1417 Raron affair and rebuilt, it was finally destroyed by fire in 1788, leaving today's dramatic crenellated walls, tower and the well-preserved Saint-Georges chapel. It forms an iconic twin silhouette with the Basilica of Valère on the opposite hill, and its summit offers a 360° panorama over the Rhône valley, the Alps and surrounding vineyards. As of 2026 the ruins are still freely open during the regular season, making it a rewarding half-day of a short but steep climb rewarded by sweeping views.
The imposing crenellated wall ruins and central tower — climb up for a panorama of Sion, the Rhône valley and the Alps
The well-preserved Saint-Georges (Saint-Georges & Saint-Grat) chapel with 14th–15th-century murals (Annunciation, Crucifixion, Saint George slaying the dragon)
The twin silhouette with Valère basilica on the facing hill — Sion's signature viewpoint
The whole hill is a protected natural area; in spring and summer the uphill path through wildflowers and vineyards is a sight in itself
Golden-hour and sunset views over the ramparts and the Valais landscape — a photographer's favourite
Good to know
SafetyThe final stretch to the top is steep, rocky and can be slippery. Wear comfortable trainers or hiking shoes with ankle support, and take care near the wall edges — many parts of the ruins have no railings.
SeasonThe site closes in winter (roughly mid-November to mid-March). The open season is generally mid-March to mid-November, but confirm the exact opening dates and hours on the official website before you go.
SeasonThere is almost no shade on the hill, so midsummer midday brings strong sun and heat. Bring water, a hat and sunscreen, and climb in the early morning or late afternoon for comfort.
RulesThe castle hill is a protected natural area. Keep to marked paths, do not damage the ruins, and avoid smoking or camping. Drone use may be restricted, so check the rules first.
MannersThe Saint-Georges chapel is a religious and heritage space. Keep quiet inside, do not touch the murals, and follow the guide's instructions during guided tours.
CautionSwitzerland is very safe, but stay alert to pickpocketing and lost items at busy spots like Sion station and on buses. A Swiss Travel Pass may be worth it if you take many trains, and the price and scope of any combined-site tickets should be confirmed on site or via official sources.
Practical info
From Sion station it is about a 15–30 minute walk (through the old town toward Place Maurice Zermatten and uphill), or take a bus and finish the last stretch on foot up the hill. The ruins are free to enter during the regular season, with set times for the chapel and guided tours; verify the opening season, hours and any ticket details (including combined tickets) on the official website before visiting.
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