Located partway between Bern and Lausanne, Bulle is a historic town in the Swiss canton of Fribourg. It has been known by several different names throughout its past, including “Butulum”, “Bollo” and “Boll”. In 1805, Bulle was almost completely destroyed by a fire but retains its medieval street layout today.
Things to do in Bulle
Cultural and historical artefacts are exhibited at the Bulle Gruyere Museum and Library, which has been open to visitors since 1917. It houses an impressive collection of more than 25,000 objects that include paintings, textiles and antique furnishings. You can admire traditional costumes, learn about the area’s cheese dairies and step inside reconstructed interiors from the 16th to 20th centuries.
Adjacent to the museum is the Château de Bulle, which was constructed between 1291 and 1331 by the bishops of Lausanne. After being renovated in the 18th century, prison cells were added in 1854 and the castle has remained largely unchanged since then. You can step across the stone bridge that spans the castle moat and climb the fortified tower to enjoy magnificent views across Bulle.
On the other side of the Château de Bulle is the Chapelle de Notre-Dame de Compassion, which has been an important pilgrimage destination since the 17th century. Originally founded in 1350, it was home to a group of Capuchin monks until 2004. In addition to hosting Mass each day, this charming church presents classical music concerts and religious choral performances.
Getting around Bulle
Bulle is around 40 minutes’ drive from Lausanne and 45 minutes from Bern. Bern Airport is an hour away and has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect to the Bulle railway station and buses travel through the town. The centre of Bulle is small enough to explore on foot.