In brief
- When? Saturday, October 31, 2026, tours every 30 minutes from 5 pm to 7:30 pm.
- Where? At Château de Menthon, 521 route du col de Bluffy, 74290 Menthon-Saint-Bernard, above Lake Annecy.
- How much? €12 for ages 15 and up, €6 for under-15s.
- Duration: approximately 45 minutes.
- Good to know: limited places; booking online is recommended.
On Halloween night, Château de Menthon takes on a different appearance. On Saturday, October 31, 2026, this medieval residence overlooking Lake Annecy is hosting “Frayeur au château” (Fright at the Château), costumed, theatrical guided tours exploring superstitions and unusual, even frightening, collections. An ideal family outing for celebrating Halloween in a different way. Here’s the program, prices, and our tips.
Château de Menthon, a setting made for Halloween
Perched on a rocky promontory above Menthon-Saint-Bernard, Château de Menthon is one of the most spectacular monuments in Haute-Savoie, with its towers and pointed roofs that are said to have inspired Walt Disney. Inhabited by the same family for nearly a thousand years, it is also the birthplace of Saint Bernard of Menthon, patron saint of mountaineers. Its historic rooms, library, and spiral staircases make it the perfect setting for a visit at dusk.
Every year, the château takes advantage of Halloween to offer an unusual way to discover its collections. The 2026 edition is called “Frayeur au château” (Fright at the Château).
Read also: Visit Santa Claus’s Castle in Menthon-Saint-Bernard
The Frayeur au château 2026 program
Theatrical, costumed tours
On Saturday, October 31, costumed guides lead visitors through the château’s rooms on a tour lasting around 45 minutes. Along the way, they reveal the superstitions of the past and unusual, sometimes unsettling, collections kept in the residence. All in a Halloween evening atmosphere, somewhere between history and thrills.
Departures every 30 minutes
Tours depart every 30 minutes, from 5 pm to 7:30 pm. Places are limited for each time slot, so booking your time in advance is recommended.
Is the tour suitable for families?
The organizer does not specify a minimum age. The tone is intended to be more intriguing than terrifying, but for sensitive younger children, it’s best to choose an earlier time slot and talk to them about the tour beforehand. Dressing up is not required, but this is the perfect occasion.
Read also: Halloween outing ideas in Haute-Savoie
Our tips for the evening
- Book your time slot online: places are limited, and Halloween night is very popular.
- Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time: the parking area is below the château, and access is on foot.
- Bring a headlamp or flashlight for the walk back after dark.
- Dress warmly: evenings are chilly on the heights above the lake in late October.
- Leave your dog at home: pets are not allowed, either inside or outside the château.
Practical information
Date, times, and prices
- Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
- Times: departures every 30 minutes from 5 pm to 7:30 pm; duration approximately 45 minutes
- Full price (ages 15 and up): €12
- Reduced price (under 15s): €6
- Groups (10 people or more): on request
- Booking: online via the château’s website
Getting there
Château de Menthon is located at 521 route du col de Bluffy, in Menthon-Saint-Bernard, on the eastern shore of Lake Annecy, about 15 minutes from Annecy by car via the D909. An accessible parking space for people with reduced mobility is available less than 100 meters from the site.
Further information
Château de Menthon – tel. 07 81 74 39 72 – website: chateau-de-menthon.com. Lake Annecy Tourist Office.
Read also: Château de Ripaille in Thonon-les-Bains: history, visiting information, and practical details
FAQ: Halloween at Château de Menthon
When does Frayeur au château take place in Menthon-Saint-Bernard?
Frayeur au château takes place on Saturday, October 31, 2026, with tours every 30 minutes between 5 pm and 7:30 pm.
How much does the Halloween tour at Château de Menthon cost?
The tour costs €12 for ages 15 and up and €6 for under-15s. A group rate is available on request for groups of 10 or more.
Do I need to book the Frayeur au château tour?
Yes, booking is recommended: places are limited for each time slot. You can book online via the Château de Menthon website.
How long does the tour last?
The theatrical tour lasts approximately 45 minutes.