The Vaudoise town of Vallorbe lies in a valley basin of the river Orbe, directly on the French border. An inconspicuous chalet is nestled against the slope above Vallorbe. It is the disguised entrance to the fortress "Pré-Giroud".
The Romans called it Leuca Fortis – “strong Leuk” – and until the 19th century this was one of the ecclesiastical and cultural centres of the Valais. Defiant towers, castles and fine patrician houses bear witness to the former strength, self-confidence and determination of the community. The emblematic Bishop’s Castle (built 1254), town hall, late-gothic St. Stephen’s Church (with its romanesque tower and roman fi replace) and baroque Ringacker Chapel can be seen for miles around.
On the Legionnaire’s Path in Windisch visitors can immerse themselves in the fascinating history of Switzerland’s only Roman Legionnaire’s camp.
