Secrets of military fortifications: Switzerland's 5 best bunkers for tourists

Hidden in the heart of Europe, amidst mountains and lakes, are extraordinary testimonies of military history - bunkers that blend into the natural landscape. These fortifications hold not only weapons, but also the spirit of a time when every detail was of strategic importance. Instead of the usual museums, you'll find labyrinths of underground galleries that hold the secrets of defence technology and the daily lives of soldiers.

Fort of Chillon

This artillery and infantry fort, built between 1941 and 1942, revealed its secrets in the early 2000s. Not only is it located opposite Chillon Castle on the Riviera Vaud, but it also overlooks Lake Geneva. Places are limited, so book early, but be aware that this artillery fort is not accessible to everyone. It is not suitable for people in wheelchairs and pets are not allowed here. 

Inside, the temperature is 19°C at all times of the year. The fort surprises not only with its history, but also with its unique acoustics: some rooms are used for chamber music concerts, creating an unusual combination of military architecture and art. Finally, combining traditional Swiss charm and military history, the Chillon Fort offers a unique educational experience in artillery and infantry. Here you can see the original fortifications, including artillery pieces, and learn about the daily life of the soldiers who served here during World War II.

Gotthard Fortress (Sasso San Gottardo)

This imposing structure stands out not only for its size, as it is one of the largest fortresses in the country, but also for its history: it was built during the First World War - an unusual fact for Swiss fortresses. The Gotthard Fortress is located at an altitude of 2,100 metres and is the southern entrance to Switzerland. It is an important and heavily fortified part of the Gotthard region. In the past, its cellars could house up to 500 soldiers for six months behind armoured doors. Today it is an interesting museum among 14 other bunkers on the Ticino side of Gotthard, which can be visited from June to October.

Ready to take a trip through three kilometres of underground galleries and caves? Here you'll find hidden ammunition, living quarters for soldiers and gun positions. There's also a platform that offers incredible views. There's also a mountain crystal exhibition, which you can access after travelling a kilometre on foot and then taking comfortable seats on the cable car. If you prefer adventure, the old cobbled road with 30 turns, made famous by the James Bond film, is at your disposal.

Fort de Dailly

Situated above the picturesque village of Morkles, Fort de Dailly offers magnificent views of the majestic mountains. The fort is simply gigantic - the largest in Switzerland and one of the largest in Western Europe! It contains more than 20 kilometres of underground fortifications. Here you can find two tower cannons, the only ones of their kind in Switzerland, and an underground funicular railway. It is the only Swiss fort that has functioned continuously in the era of modern fortification.

Fort de Dailly is an impressive military monument, built in 1892 and restored in 1948 after an ammunition explosion. Closed since 1995, it is now open to the public with guided tours. You will have the opportunity to explore almost 20 kilometres of galleries dug right into the mountain. The fort houses two turret cannons, the only ones of their kind in Switzerland, as well as a central group firing post. If you're interested in military history, you'll also see fifteen machine guns on display. The fort is divided into several sections, connected by an underground funicular railway.

Vitznau Fortress

Located on the shores of Lake Lucerne, Vitznau Fortress boasts panoramic views of the islands and vibrant colours. This fortress is unique in that it is manned by soldiers from the Swiss army. They are sure to liven up your visit with 500 metres of historical galleries. For a touch of adventure, spend the night in this fortress, in one of the bunker dormitories!

This famous World War II bunker is carved into the mountain of Riga. Such an important place was a key part of the defence of the great Gotthard Fortress. There are giant ammunition depots and gun emplacements here, untouched since the war. And don't forget that the bunker once housed a power station. The tour lasts from two to four hours and won't make you bored. If you're really into history, you can even stay overnight, in a hostel or private room. Food is also served in the former bunker, allowing for a unique culinary experience. Finally, crossbow shooting classes can be organised if you wish.

Pre-Girou Fortress

The Pre-Girou Fortress is a marvel of military ingenuity hidden under the guise of an ordinary mountain chalet. It is located very close to the French border and a stone's throw from the canton of Geneva. It has six blockhouses connected by a labyrinth of galleries leading to the armoury, engine room and barracks. Moreover, the fort overlooks the Col de Jugne, combining military strategy with natural beauty.

This fort is one of the most visited bunkers in Switzerland. Built during World War II, it played a key role in the defence of the Col de Jugne and the border. The fort could accommodate 200 men armed with howitzers, cannons and machine guns. An audiovisual presentation and exhibitions will allow you to learn about the life of the soldiers of the time. Finally, you can explore the underground galleries with their original ventilation system and visit the ammunition shop and the infirmary.

Conclusion

A visit to the Swiss bunkers is an opportunity to peek into a little-known page of history, where technology and nature merge in a unique union. These underground structures tell a story of defence, courage and innovation that has helped Switzerland maintain its neutrality. These places inspire not only with their past, but also with the opportunity to see history come alive in the present.