A twin ticket for two emblematic cultural sites in the Pays de Gex for just 12 euros? It’s possible! We’ll explain everything and give you a taste of what’s in store.
Voltaire’s castle
In the 21st century, fine minds still meet at Voltaire’s château in Ferney. Built by the illustrious writer, this residence has seen many of the philosophers of the Enlightenment pass through its doors.
It was also the birthplace of some of Voltaire’s greatest works, including his famous Dictionnaire philosophique. Listed as a historic monument, the château overlooks a pretty wooded park with exceptional views of the Alps. It’ll take your breath away!
Renovated in 2018, the Château de Voltaire offers you a fascinating interactive tour to discover all the secrets of this illustrious playwright.
The little extra :
Bonus: enjoy a bucolic moment in the park, watching the castle’s sheep graze peacefully and listening to the birdsong. No, you’re not in the middle of the countryside, but in Voltaire’s château!
Fort l’Écluse
Enter the history of Fort l’Écluse, a veritable masterpiece of military architecture built into the rock and overlooking the Rhône. Comprising two towers and a large enclosure, this building is linked to the upper fort by a flight of 1165 steps that will take you to the highest point of the fort. From here, you can enjoy an impressive view of the entire Rhône valley. Get out your smartphones and snap away! You can share your best photos on Instagram with #paysdegex.
Fort L’Ecluse also houses a number of temporary exhibitions, as well as a permanent exhibition, so you can learn more about the history of this exceptional military site. In summer, the fort hosts a number of events, including the Jazz in Fort L’Ecluse and Soloist Academy festivals. Come and enjoy the sounds of jazz or classical music in the heart of an exceptional historic site.
Practical information
Can’t wait to discover these two exceptional places? All you have to do is buy your ticket, book your date and that’s it!
- The twin ticket is on sale at Château de Voltaire and Fort l’Ecluse. The two sites are only a 20-minute drive apart, so you can visit them on the same day if you wish.
- Please note: the twin ticket is only valid during the summer season, from mid-June to mid-September. On certain dates, admission is free – please enquire before your visit. Children under the age of 6 are admitted free of charge to Fort L’Ecluse, and up to the age of 25 to the Château de Voltaire.
- There is a special rate for disabled visitors: €4.50 at Fort L’Ecluse and free at Château de Voltaire. A lift will take them up to the terrace in the fort, and there is a specially adapted walkway in the château.
- Summer opening times: The Château de Voltaire is open every day from 10am to 6pm, from 1 April to 30 September.
Fort l’Ecluse is open every day from mid-June to mid-September from 10.30am to 6.30pm.
Check out the online diary to make sure you don’t miss any of the exhibitions and events taking place at this iconic venue.
Thematics
