Villa du Châtelet

Villa du Châtelet is a Neo-Louis XIII structure standing on the slope toward Lake Geneva, featuring a monumental portico, ornate column capitals, and decorated balconies throughout. The building uses a mix of classical and eclectic design elements and contains multiple rooms, galleries, and cellars built into the natural terrain.

The building was constructed in 1896 as a private residence for Jean-Charles Alexandre Taillefer, a legal official from the French Embassy in London. The property later served different commercial purposes before eventually becoming a cultural and exhibition space.

The villa hosts art exhibitions and cultural events that showcase the region's heritage and creative life. These gatherings have made it a meeting point for people interested in artistic expression and local arts.

The villa sits close to the lakeside, making it easily accessible on foot from the town center and nearby areas. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as the property spans multiple levels built into the slope, with stairs and uneven ground throughout.

The property was cleverly built into the natural hillside, creating extensive cellars and lower levels that function as integral rooms rather than mere storage spaces. The interior preserves original features including distinctive parquet flooring and colored stained-glass windows that date to its construction period.

Location: Évian-les-Bains

Inception: 1896

Architects: Jules Lavirotte

Architectural style: Neo-Louis XIII style, eclectic architecture

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Fee: Yes

Operator: Les Amis de la Villa du Châtelet

Address: 31 avenue Paul Léger

Opening Hours: Monday-Tuesday off; Wednesday-Sunday 14:30-18:30

Phone: +33450836353

Website: http://evianchatelet.org

GPS coordinates: 46.40112,6.60197

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:23