Every winter, the majestic Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard sets aside its medieval airs to don one of the most beautiful seasonal decorations: that of the Santa Claus Castle. Clinging to the mountainside and overlooking Lake Annecy, this already magical place becomes the setting for a true winter tale.
Passing through its illuminated gate, as seen in the video below, an immediate sense of wonder envelops you. Warm lights, festive music, children’s smiles… everything announces a timeless visit.
A spectacular transformation: when history meets enchantment
The medieval architecture of the castle, its turrets and large vaulted rooms perfectly suit the Christmas atmosphere. But when the first decorations appear, the place completely transforms:
- string lights running along the ramparts,
- snow-covered fir trees,
- hanging lanterns,
- fairy-tale staging in every room,
…as if Santa Claus himself had set down his bags on the heights of the lake.
The contrast between the historic décor and the enchanted atmosphere creates a unique ambiance, both majestic and warm.
Inside: a route designed for young and old
The visit lasts about 45 minutes but the experience can easily extend over several hours given how much there is to see and do.
● Santa Claus’s House
The heart of the route. Here you discover his office, his letters, his globe, his workshop… Every detail is designed to immerse visitors in the magical preparation for the night of December 24th.
● The historic rooms decorated for the occasion
Bedrooms, lounges, medieval kitchens… You wander through period settings enhanced by the warmth of lights and old objects revisited in a festive version.
● The enchanted forest
An immersive staging with glowing animals, forest sounds, and a wintery atmosphere. It’s one of the children’s favorite spots.
● Creative workshops and outdoor activities
Depending on the day:
- decoration creations,
- story readings,
- small outdoor ice rink,
- gourmet stalls (crepes, hot chocolate, Savoyard treats),
- mini artisan market.
All in a gentle, friendly, and family atmosphere, enhanced by musical performances and meetings with elves.
A highlight: arriving at the castle at dusk
Arriving just before nightfall remains one of the best choices.
The sun disappears behind the mountain, the first lights twinkle on the façades, and you see the silhouettes of visitors entering, amazed.
This is exactly what the video you sent me captures: that magical transition where the castle comes to life, lights up, and becomes a film set. Impossible not to feel like a child again.
A warm, authentic, and Savoyard atmosphere
What makes the visit unique is not just the beauty of the place — it’s the atmosphere.
The volunteers and castle teams, always smiling, contribute to this family atmosphere.
Everywhere you find local touches:
- natural decoration (wood, pine cones, wool),
- Savoyard artisanal products,
- scents of mulled wine and cinnamon,
- little surprises around the stone staircases.
You truly feel the desire to create a simple, authentic, warm Christmas, far from commercial artifices.
Practical information (2025-2026 edition)
Opening dates
From November 14, 2025 to January 3, 2026.
Hours
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday (outside holidays): 4pm – 11pm
- Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday & holidays: 10am – 11pm. Please note the interior of the castle is only accessible on weekends.
Prices (varying by date & time)
- Adults: €5 on weekdays and €8 on weekends
- Children: €3 or €6
- Under 3 years: free
- Free entry possible after 6pm on certain evenings
- Unlimited passes available online
Access
- Free parking around the castle
- Shuttles provided on weekends and during very busy periods
- Strollers allowed
- No pets allowed
My personal feeling
Every year, I return to the castle for this special visit. And each time, the same impression: a timeless moment.
The view of Lake Annecy, the softness of the lights, the children running towards Santa’s house… you forget everything else.
The place manages to blend heritage, tradition, and imagination, without overplaying it: just enough to dream, to share, to savor the start of winter.
Should you go? Absolutely.
Whether you are with family, as a couple, or even with friends, the visit to the Santa Claus Castle in Menthon-Saint-Bernard is one of the most successful experiences in the region during the winter season.
Between the magical atmosphere, meticulous decorations, historical discoveries, and friendly activities, it’s an outing not to be missed if you are near Annecy or in Haute-Savoie during the holidays.
