Sylvie, your guide at the Château de Voltaire
Accredited guide, storyteller and Enlightenment enthusiast, I have been sharing the history of Voltaire’s estate with visitors from all over the world for more than 8 years.
My story with Voltaire
Like many people, I first met Voltaire in books. The second meeting happened here in Ferney, walking along the paths he laid out. I realised this place tells the story of a more human Voltaire: the builder, the host, the neighbour, the man outraged by injustice.
Since then I have guided at the château with the same pleasure. I prepare each tour as an encounter — with business leaders over from Geneva, pupils discovering Candide, retirees taking their time, or Russian travellers moved to find Catherine the Great’s name in one of his letters.
How I guide
Telling, not reciting
Dates matter, but stories are what stay with you: I favour anecdotes, letters and objects.
Adapting to everyone
I tune the pace, vocabulary and depth to my audience, from eight-year-olds to specialists.
Welcoming you in your language
I guide in English, French, German and Russian, so that nobody is left out.
At a glance
- Accredited guide at the Château de Voltaire for more than 8 years
- Tours in English, French, German and Russian
- Groups, companies, seniors, schools and individuals
- Based in Ferney-Voltaire, on the doorstep of Geneva
“The best compliment? When a visitor tells me they’re going to re-read Voltaire when they get home.”
Let’s get acquainted
Tell me about your group and what you have in mind — I reply personally.