A New Chocolate Paradise in Gruyère
A new theme park dedicated entirely to chocolate is set to become a must-visit destination for sweet lovers around the world. The Parc du chocolat Cailler, located in Broc, Gruyère, is expected to open its doors in 2030, offering an immersive experience that delves into the fascinating world of chocolate. With a massive investment of CHF 400 million, this ambitious project is already generating excitement among chocolate enthusiasts.
The park is scheduled to begin its pre-opening phase between late 2027 and mid-2028, which means visitors won’t have to wait too long before they can explore this chocolate haven. Spanning 30,000 square metres, the resort will be developed by Maison Cailler, a renowned Swiss chocolate brand that has been producing delectable treats since 1819. This project marks a significant expansion of the country’s first chocolate factory, which was established in 1898 and attracts around 400,000 guests annually.
Visitors to the current factory can participate in chocolate-making workshops and interact with skilled chocolatiers. The new theme park will take this experience to the next level with several unique attractions. One of the highlights will be the Cacao Greenhouse, a structure designed to resemble a soft and organic shape made from metal and glass. Inside, guests will learn about the key ingredients of Cailler Chocolate, including cocoa beans and milk sourced from Gruyère.
Another exciting feature of the park is a flying theatre that will transport visitors on a journey through the surrounding landscapes. Additionally, the park will include hotels and restaurants, allowing tourists to fully immerse themselves in the chocolate experience.
According to Euro News, the Parc du chocolat Cailler aims to offer visitors a chance to “discover the world of chocolate, take a look behind the scenes of chocolate-making inside the factory, taste creations, and take part in workshops with master chocolatiers.” The resort is projected to attract between 700,000 and 800,000 visitors in its first year, with numbers expected to grow significantly in the following years.
Accessibility is also a key focus for the park. Tourists will be able to reach the site via a direct train on the Swiss rail network, with plans for a nearby car park as well. The project is expected to create around 300 jobs in the local area and was first proposed back in 2018.
Currently, the existing chocolate factory charges children 7 CHF and adults 17 CHF for entry. When the Mail’s Joanna Tweedy visited in 2017, she described the process of how chocolate moves from bean to bar, highlighting the mesmerizing demonstrations that take place. She also mentioned a 90 lb sculpture made of dark chocolate and finished with gold leaf, giving a glimpse into the creative possibilities of the new park.
