Rolle, Canton of Vaud, Switzerland

Rolle is a Swiss municipality in the canton of Vaud, located in the district of Nyon, located on the shores of Lake Geneva between Geneva and Lausanne in the La Côte region, to the west of Lausanne, in the direction of Nyon and Geneva. Neighbouring Mont-sur-Rolle is well-known for its fruity, palatable Chasselas white wine.

Rolle “La Perle du Léman” is a town with a substantial historical heritage that can be admired from the quays. The 13th century castle with its magnificent inner courtyard arouses the curiosity of walkers. The lakeside promenade, from the marina to the beach, offers an idyllic view of the “Ile de la Harpe“ and the Alps in the background. In the English Garden, one can marvel at a majestic work of art by the artist Jedd Novatt.

Pretty boutiques, stalls and grocery stores with local flavors line the main street. Restaurants with their lively terraces in the summer suggest to the gourmands to taste the specialties of the lake and the region. The Casino-Théâtre, with its Italian-style auditorium, as well as the prestigious Rosey Concert Hall meet the expectations of lovers of artistic and cultural discoveries. Sport and leisure activity lovers will find a little corner of paradise at the beach which offers water activities.

Rolle has an area, as of 2009, of 2.7 square kilometers. Of this area, 0.81 km2 or 29.6% is used for agricultural purposes, while 0.15 km2 or 5.5% is forested. Of the rest of the land, 1.74 km2 or 63.5% is settled (buildings or roads), or 0.7% is either rivers or lakes.

History
Established in the vicinity of a castle built in the 1260s, the agglomeration was founded in January 1319by Count Amédée V of Savoy. It is the last of the new towns created by the Savoy family in the Pays de Vaud. The details of this punching operation are exceptionally well documented.

Prehistoric settlements
A late Bronze Age lake side settlement was discovered and partially destroyed in 1835 during construction of the artificial island of Ile de La Harpe. A second settlement from the same period was found in Fleur d’Eau. In 1984, in La Combe, a first to third century AD Gallo-Roman estate was discovered. The remains of the moat and the ramparts of Rolle Castle were uncovered in 1985. Fragments of a medieval city wall were found in the Champ de verse which may have come from the village of Saint-Nicolas de Ver.

Medieval Rolle
Rolle did not play a decisive role among the many customs posts established along Lake Geneva, given its late foundation. Thus, the medieval Rolle never completed its wall which began on the shores of Lake Geneva.

A promenade has been built along the lake shore. The castle complex of the Counts of Savoy, built in 1264 in trapezoidal form with four massive corner towers, also stands here directly on the lake shore. At one time the castle was also protected towards the land by fosses. However, it was burned down by the Swiss Confederates in 1530 and 1536 and most of the buildings are now either reconstructions or new. Today, the Rolle municipal offices are housed in part of the castle and other rooms are used for exhibitions.

Under Bernese rule
Under Bernese rule (1536–1798) Rolle was part of the bailiwick of Morges. In 1558, the Bernese merchant Hans Steiger, who was already the lord of Mont-le-Grand, acquired the barony of Rolle. His family retained the property until the French Revolution. The barony included the town of Rolle (except the fief of Les Uttins which belonged until the 18th century to the La Harpe family), Tartegnin, Vinzel, Luins, half of Essertines-sur-Rolle, some homes in Begnins, the region of Vincy, and Saint-Vincent (now in Gilly), Bursinel and in 1615 they acquired Le Rosey Castle, Dully and Le Vaud. The judicial court was composed of the lord, his deputy, a court clerk, and ten members from Rolle and villages in the district. One of ten members governed the city. In 1740, the town bought itself out from under some taxes and duties.

The end of Bernese rule and modern Rolle
Rolle was the birthplace of Frédéric-César de La Harpe and Amédée de La Harpe, two important figures in the French Revolution and the end of the Ancien Régime of Switzerland. Toward the end of the 18th Century, it was a center of revolutionary fervor. Amédée de La Harpe presided, in Rolle on 15 July 1791, over a revolutionary banquet. Following the French invasion of Switzerland in 1798, Rolle became the seat of a district of the same name. In 1799 the Helvetic Republic bought the castle from the municipality and used it until 1974 as the seat of government. In 1802, during the Bourla-papey uprising, patrician land titles and tax records were burned in the archives at Rolle Castle.

Numerous patricians’ houses from the 17th to 19th centuries have been preserved in the heart of the town. The Maison d’Allinges with a battlement-topped entrance was built in the 16th century. The casino dates from 1875. The neo-classical Pavillon Petite Fleur d’Eau has stood on the shore of Lac Léman since 1826. The Saint Grat Protestant parish church, consecrated in 1519, underwent numerous reconstructions in the 18th century, whilst the bell tower dates from the Middle Ages. The Saint-Joseph Catholic Church built in neo-Gothic style in 1843 boasts beautiful stained-glass windows in the chancellery.

The artificial island of Ile de la Harpe, was constructed in the lake in front of Rolle at the beginning of the 19th century to protect the harbour. A memorial to Frédéric-César de la Harpe, a Swiss politician of the Helvetian Republic and tutor of Alexander I Tsar of Russia, has stood since 1844 on the tiny tree-covered island, which is only 110 metres long.

Thanks to its attractive location the town has developed into a residential community over recent decades. New residential areas have been built particularly in the west and northwest of the town. Several vineyards also belong to Rolle, the best-known of which is the extensive area of neighbouring Mont-sur-Rolle.

Tourism
Rolle, small town nestled picturesquely on the shores of Lake Geneva is bordered by a renowned vineyard and stunning properties. When you arrive in Rolle, the most striking feature is its large medieval castle, flanked by 4 towers. Standing right by the water’s edge, it invites to take a lakeside walk. The floral embankment runs beside the narrow private gardens of houses on the Grand-Rue and brings us face to face with the famous island of La Harpe. The walk continues to the Casino, small Italian style theatre, and to the end of a long jetty protecting the harbour and the sailing club. Returning on our steps, the visit continues by joining the Grand-Rue with its small shops, to reach the Temple. Then, along a shaded alley, the back of the city is outlined through a park. After having reached the starting point, a second route takes the walker to the beach crossing a small wood by the Port of Vernes and the campground.

Historical heritage

The Rolle Castle
The Rolle Castle is a medieval fortress built in the 13th Century. Its inner courtyard and the corner towers, that are different one from the other, embody its particularity. In 1798 the fortress became public property of the city of Rolle. Among the numerous fortified castles that were built during the medieval period on the shores of the lake Geneva, the Rolle Castle is probably one of the most mysterious, considering its origin and the history of its construction. It was built indeed very close to the lake, and used to be protected by a moat towards the city. The courtyard is particularly well suited to hold various events. Nowadays the castle hosts the town’s Boardroom, and a reception area which is also suitable for exhibitions.

Cultural space

Rosey Concert Hall
The Rosey Concert Hall is located in the centre of the Paul & Henri Carnall Hall, which is an innovative and visionary building constructed within the Rosey School Campus in Rolle, Switzerland. This Hall can host up to 900 seats for concerts, theater plays, musical shows, operas, conferences as well as various cultural events. With its 183 m2 stage, top quality acoustics and the attention payed to every detail, this Concert Hall is an exceptional place to enjoy culture, music and art. Finally, a 227 m2 Blackbox is proposed for smaller and more modern concerts and shows, thanks to the flexibility provided by the room layout.

Casino Theatre in Rolle
The Casino Theatre in Rolle offers an eclectic artistic program of performing arts, such as: Theater, Music, Comedy, contemporary Circus and shows for children. Located in a beautiful setting on the shores of Lake Geneva, between Morges and Nyon, the Casino Theatre in Rolle has it all. The Casino Theatre in Rolle benefits from an auditorium with up to 230 seats, a rehearsal room for artists and a foyer with a bar for the great delight of the public.

Leisure

L’hôtel by Hostellerie Du Château
Le Resto et L’Hôtel by Hostellerie du Château are ideally located in the heart of the charming village of Rolle, in an 18th century building near Lake Geneva, the station and motorway. The fireplace warms winter evenings, while the beautiful terrace boasts a spectacular view of the lake. L´HÔTEL “by Hostellerie du Château” offers 16 original and bright rooms. Each one, whether overlooking a quiet street or with a view on the lake and the castle is unique, spacious and filled with natural light. This beautiful building has welcomed travelers since the beginning of the 18th century. Located mid-way of Geneva and Lausanne (30km), it stands in the center of the small city of Rolle, in front of the esplanade of the castle and 100 meters from the banks of Geneva Lake. L´HÔTEL has a great view on all of this. Even if it is in town, peaceful environment is guaranteed. The hotel has a restaurant and a very large summer terrace with a view on Geneva Lake.

Verveine et Romarin
Guest room and host table, Verveine et Romarin is situated 10 min away from Rolle with panoramic view on the lake and the Alps. Nice room and host’s table with panoramic view on the Geneva Lake and the Alps. Room with a separate entry in a new house. TV, Wifi, Garden, parking. Let the host, a passionate chef, seduce you by a meal at the host’s table (on request). Wine tasting. Transport of luggage and people possible.

B&B-Au Bonheur
B&B-Au Bonheur des Iris in the town of Rolle, 5 min. away from the Leman lake. Apartment for 5 people (up to 9 people with two other double rooms), a suite with a double bedroom and a living room with sofa bed, a bedroom with two single beds, a bathroom with WC, a terrace overlooking the garden, a fully equipped kitchen.

Gourmet
Restaurant du Casino in Rolle
This family establishment on the shores of Lake Geneva in Rolle offers seasonal cuisine with an emphasis on freshwater fish. It is located between the harbour and the castle and offers a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Restaurant du Casino, nicknamed Pearl of Lake Geneva, is owned by the Vuillemier family. It offers seasonal cuisine on the waterfront in Rolle. Its vast, quiet terrace opposite the landing stage and Île de la Harpe is greatly appreciated by walkers, also because the restaurant is near the château and offers a pretty view of the Alps. Inside, the luminous conservatory, the typical Vaudois café and the more intimate dining room on the first floor offer three distinct atmospheres for private and business events. Among the great hits on the regularly changed menu card are perch fillets, fera, pike and beef tartar – highly recommended. The Chef’s desserts such as chocolate mousse or Catalan-style crème brûlée as well as a vast selection of La Côte AOC wines complete the delightful card.

Monthly Sunday Market in Rolle
Once a month, the Rolle Sunday market is held on the Place des Tilleuls. You will find local products, fishmonger, winegrower and a baker with homemade desserts. Next to the food, there will be craft such as Marseille soap

Uluwatu House in Rolle
ULUWATU is a “chill” place where you can come and get a good coffee, a freshly prepared buddha bowl or a gourmet pastry in Rolle. These 2 sisters offer a concept in the heart of the coast inspired by trips to Asia, South America & Central America that creates a place with a tropical atmosphere and multiple flavors. They offer a take away service for salads, poke bowl or coffee, a catering service as well as a shop area for gifts of all kinds.

Il Bio Locale in Rolle
Il Bio Locale is an eco-responsible grocery store that offers unpackaged, organic products, featuring local artisans and producers in the heart of Grande Rue de Rolle. You will find a wide choice of products such as eggs, cereals, oils and vinegars as well as dairy products. Bring your jars and jars to avoid a gaspiallage of packaging and take a break to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee.

Confiserie Moret in Rolle
Confiserie Moret in Rolle offers a variety of breads or pastries to taste in it tea-room or in catering.

Natural space

The Lake Sidewalk of Rolle
flowery lake sidewalk of Rolle with blow of eye on the private gardens. The lake sidewalk that connects the castle to the marina, invites to a stroll away from the traffic. To admire along this walk, beside the Lake Geneva and the Alps, magnificent floral arrangements and the picturesque back side gardens of the pretty houses of the main street.

The West Port of Rolle
The West Port – marina – was built in 1964 on the site of the former public baths. Since its complete renovation in 2017, it now hosts nearly 440 boats. The large dike that protects the boats is accessible to the public and offers a beautiful promenade with benches that invite to contemplation of the lake, the city and vineyards. The Port with its famous Club House is the meeting place for sailors and boaters.

Beach of Rolle
Beach of Rolle provides great area for swimming with activities. paddle, pedalo. Access to the beach of Rolle: by the Chemin de la Plage, at the east of the city.

The island “de la harpe”
The Island “de La Harpe” was created in 1838. A 13-meters obelisk was erected on the island in honour of a political leader, named Frédéric César de La Harpe. At night, sophisticated lights on the trees provide the island with a unique and mysterious atmosphere. Back in 1835, a group of local merchants decided to create an island in order to protect the harbour situated on the west side, where the wood, which was cut in the Jura, used to be embarked on ships and carried to Geneva. In 1838, the politician Frédéric César de la Harpe’s died and the artificial island was given his name. After a public vote, a committee decided to erect an obelisk in his honour, designed by Veyrassat, an architect from Lausanne. The medals on the monument were sculpted by Pradier.

Activities

Hot Air Balloons With Ballons du Léman
Discover the Geneva Lake region form the air. Everything here takes a new dimension …Ballons du Léman offers to embark on one of their unique balconies, from which you will see the Alps and the area of the Leman like never before. At more than 2,500 meters, or at treetops, you will discover a thrilling sensation of freedom. Ballons du Léman welcomes all ages and take-off from different locations around Lake Geneva. Just for you, or with a group, for a private or corporate event, a hot air balloon flight is the perfect gift for any occasion. Birthdays, weddings, corporate events or just for the pleasure of making someone happy.

Sailing Lessons on Lake Geneva in Rolle
Sailing school for beginners and advanced with the Société Nautique Rolloise. The Société Nautique Rolloise offers several types of lessons (groups or private) from April to October. Top quality lessons whether to get acquainted with sailing or to improve.

Camping Aux Vernes in Rolle
The campsite of Rolle aux Vernes is located directly at the water’s edge. In the heart of La Côte Region, the camping site, situated on the lake side, covers an arborized area of 1,5 hectares. They are 150 spaces to camp. This idyllic camping ground, located in a quiet neighborhood within 500 m from the center, offers a nice family atmosphere as well as an array of activities.

Parcours des Cépages
During this 6 kilometers walk, discover the different sorts of grapes of the area while enjoying a wonderful view on the Geneva Lake and the Alps. Along the path you will discover some signposts which will explain the wineyards.

Mont-Sur-Rolle Caveau des Vignerons
In the biggest wine region of the Lake Geneva Region, La Côte AOC, the Caveau des vignerons de Mont-sur-Rolle showcases local products and fine wines. Overlooking Lake Geneva, the village of Mont-sur-Rolle is home to many winemakers who take turns in serving their wines at the wine cellar. The stylish, spacious, modern and welcoming wine cellar in Mont-sur-Rolle is open from March to December, Friday evening to Sunday, including public holidays. The winemakers of the village themselves serve their best wines to connoisseurs and passing guests, starting with chasselas, the perfect aperitif wine and the predominant grape of the Vaudois vineyards, accompanied by platters of cold meats and cheeses. Outside opening hours, tastings can be booked. In September -October, during the harvest, tastings accompanied with music, combined with a walk through the vineyards, are popular with wine tourism enthusiasts.

Caveau des Vignerons de Luins in Vinzel
In the heart of La Côte AOC vineyard, overlooking Lake Geneva, the villages of Luins and Vinzel have joined forces to create a communal wine cellar. In a typical relaxed ambiance, 25 winemakers take turns in serving their wines and the wines of other vineyards. This is a delightful place, decorated in true Vaudois style with photos of vineyards, wooden stools and small round tables. The people of the village meet here for a drink, while for visitors it is a chance to sample the wines of La Côte AOC and meet the producers. 25 winemakers joined forces to set up the Luins-Vinzel Caveau and take turns every weekend to serve their guests in a relaxed ambiance.