Between Lake Neuchâtel and the foothills of the Jura, the Bonvillars wine-growing region extends across an altitude of 450 to 550 metres; the vineyards are mostly on slopes. Viticulture, village history and truffle culture give the area several facets to discover along trails, at tastings and in local establishments.
Viticulture, village character and trails
The wines of Bonvillars get their mineral character from limestone and gravelly soils. The region’s wines include Pinot Noir and other red grape varieties with pronounced tannins and distinctive aromas. Domaine de la Boulaz and Cave des Viticulteurs de Bonvillars sell wines directly on site. Visitors can also meet winegrowers, taste their wines and learn more about their passion for viticulture.
The history of the Cave goes back to the Société des viticulteurs du district de Grandson: 18 winegrowers founded it on 20 March 1943; it was the predecessor of Cave des Viticulteurs de Bonvillars. In 1948, the Cave moved into its newly built premises in Bonvillars. The village itself is also part of the cultural context: Bonvillars is listed in the Swiss Federal Inventory of Heritage Sites of National Importance. A menhir around three metres high also stands among the vineyards.
The Balade à Fritzo is a 2.5-kilometre educational trail with an elevation gain of 60 metres. It covers vines and wine, the shaping of the wine-growing landscape, village architecture, wild nature and sacramental wine, and is described as accessible to everyone. Those wishing to look beyond viticulture and take in several localities can explore the Balade œnotouristique de Bonvillars AOC: it runs through the AOC vineyards as well as Champagne, Onnens, Corcelles-près-Concise and Concise. Trail conditions may change, so check the latest conditions before planning your visit.
The Bonvillars AOC Wine Route is described as suitable for people with an average level of fitness and for children who can walk independently. Its paved paths can be used with wheelchairs and pushchairs; bear in mind that some sections have a certain gradient. The different trail descriptions therefore have distinct focuses: the Balade à Fritzo includes village architecture and nature as well as wine, while the Balade œnotouristique passes through vineyards and several wine-growing villages.
Truffle culture and educational plantation
The Truffière didactique de Bonvillars combines a wine-growing landscape with an insight into truffle culture. The 6,000-square-metre site lies at the foot of the vineyard and offers a view over Lake Neuchâtel. Twelve tree species grow there, along with more than 240 mycorrhizal trees, planted from 2016 onwards. The educational plantation aims to share knowledge about this valuable fungus. A tour of around three hours includes a truffle hunt and a truffle aperitif featuring AOC wines from Bonvillars. Dates and booking options may change, so check them when planning your visit.
The Marché aux truffes de Bonvillars takes place every year in La Cour. It brings together, among others, truffle growers, truffle hunters, preservers and processors, chefs, nursery owners, dog handlers and truffle enthusiasts. Several kilograms of Swiss truffles are sold on site, and demonstrations are held. The exact date varies from year to year, and activities may differ between editions.
Garden, farm and local products
The farm, ethnobotanical garden and historic orchard at La Coudre are freely accessible all year round; check for any exceptional closures before your visit. Box hedges divide the garden into four beds: medicinal and poisonous plants, dye plants, aromatic plants and vegetables. The planting may change with the seasons. The garden therefore brings together different uses of plants, rather than being defined by a single collection.
The self-service shop at La Coudre is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Its products include jams, honey, juices, walnut oil, syrups, herbal teas and AOC wines; the selection may vary depending on the season. La Sauvageraie offers preserves, jams, spices, medicinal plants and wine, as well as truffles in season. La Combaz adds to the local dining options with a restaurant on an alpine pasture that belongs to the municipality.
Accommodation and other things to do
La Gotallaz is a specific accommodation option: this organic farm, run by the Zwyssig family, offers guest rooms and products for direct sale. Nearby Grandson offers a way to complement a wine and food route from Bonvillars with a stroll through the medieval town and a visit to the castle. When planning your stay, you can balance wine trails, garden and truffle experiences with an excursion to explore the wider region.
Discover more destinations: Le Chenit, L'auberson, Sainte-Croix, Grandson, Giez Vd, Donneloye, Villars-Burquin, L'abbaye
For the broader travel overview: Northern Vaud Jura.
