It has its origins in the 11/12th Century but the main components were built by Louis, Duke of Savoy - Count de Vaud, in 1253.

[1] The wealthy Genevan philanthropist Count Jean-Jacques de Sellon, (son of Hortense Gallatin, the sister of Albert Gallatin) who owned the property until 1839, gave accommodation at the castle to, amongst many others, such political refugees as Napoleon's brother Joseph Bonaparte,[2] Empress Joséphine de Beauharnais, the Duke of Bassano, the Count Camille Cavour, Voltaire as well as to Franz Liszt and George Sand.

The estate covers over 330,000 square metres (33 hectares; 82 acres) and offers some 6,200 m2 (67,000 sq ft) of living space.

The estate is surrounded by private forests, parks, gardens and Grand Cru vine yards.

Recently completely restored and transformed, the Castle is owned by a Swiss family.