Château de Thénières, Manor house in Ballaison, France
Château de Thénières is a manor house on the northwest slope of Mont de Boisy at 733 meters elevation, marked by its round tower and Scottish design details. The building overlooks Lake Geneva and now functions as offices for Thonon Agglomeration and other public services.
Ernest de Boigne commissioned architect Bruger to build this manor house in 1863, replacing an older medieval structure that had stood on the site. This reconstruction happened during an era when wealthy landowners preferred to create castles inspired by historical models rather than maintain the original.
The building mixes Scottish design elements with a high round tower and turrets that show how 19th-century owners loved medieval forms. This style reflects how wealthy Europeans of that time tried to recreate a sense of historical romance on their estates.
The manor house sits at elevation with broad views and is easily reached from the nearby town of Thonon. Since the building serves as an administrative center, visitors should understand that access may be limited to certain hours or may require prior arrangements.
A fitness course with exercise stations has been set up near the manor house, mixing the historic setting with modern recreational activities. This unusual combination creates a space where the old structure and contemporary fitness culture coexist.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
