The Three Swiss C's - Chateaus, Cheese & Chocolate!

Tuesday we all took a trip to Gruyeres, Switzerland, which is about a two hour train ride from Geneva. We managed the train quite well, with two different connections, I might add. Another public transportation success. It actually has left us wishing that the U.S. had more trains. It's so easy to get around this way!  As you might imagine the views from the train next to Lake Geneva and though the mountains were quite amazing. I'm not sure our little iPhones could quite capture it at the speed that we were moving...but here's a shot of the station. 

After arriving in Gruyeres, we headed "up" to Chateau de Gruyere, a medieval castle. It was quite a bit of a climb, but the scenery made it all worth it. Here's some pics from our "hike".

Can you see the "hike" behind me? I made it!

At the top of the hill was this charming village - so Swiss!

After a bit more of an uphill climb, we arrived at the chateau.  

More stunning views from the chateau gardens...

A "brocade" ceiling...

The interior was also grand. All the "wallpaper" is actually paint on the walls.  Amazing!

A few more scenic views from the interior...

After the chateau, we headed straight for some fondue, which was completely amazing - as was the Mac & cheese!! Then we made outer way back down the hill to Le Maison de Gruyere (the cheese factory). This visit included a self-guided tour and tasting of Gruyere cheeses aged for different times. Delish!

Our last stop of the day was in the neighboring town of Broc - just a quick 10 min train ride. The Cailler chocolate factory is owned by Nestle & has their factory there. It's such a large facility for the area and is surrounded by mountains & dairy cows. 

The tour was fun - very creative! I'd highly recommend it if you ever find yourself in that part of the world. It started out with the history of chocolate & Cailler.  Then it took you through a portion of production.  

Last but definitely not least, the tour ended with a tasting.  I think we might have even heard angels singing as we walked through the door.  Lol! There was so much chocolate!

Chad was so excited that he kissed a chocolate cow!

All in all it was a very "filling" day! :). So glad we made the trip!!