A Perfect Winter ❆ Switzerland : Welcome TO CHAPLIN’S WORLD by Grevin
Special thank you to Jungfrau Railways (Top of Europe)
After an adequate breakfast in one of the most visually appealing restaurant I must say, decorated with Charlie Chaplin theme and wonderful quotes putting a smile on our faces, we are off to explore the first and only museum dedicated to Charlie Chaplin.
Manoir De Ban in the morning sunlight
(Corsier-sur-Vevey) Stepping down from the comfortable Jungfrau Bus upon arrival at Manoir De Ban, the view starkly different from last nights. As if a fresh painted work of art greets ones sight . . . the white manor sitting in the middle of mature greenery against a backdrop of Lake Geneva’s blue waters, framed by the Alps meeting the blue skies. Certainly a perfect welcome once more to Chaplin’s World by Grevin.
What an honor and once in a lifetime experience to have Eugene Chaplin (fifth son to Charlie Chaplin and his wife Oona) touring with us around Manoir De Ban! The word lucky doesn’t even take the cut.
The manor was purchased for 600,000 Swiss francs in the winter of 1952 when Chaplin walked away from the America which did not want him at that time and moved to Vevey, Switzerland. Life flourished at Manoir De Ban with his wife Oona and eight children.
Chaplin Wrote:
” To our amazement we discovered that it had 37 acres, with an orchard, which produces large black cherries, delicious green plums, apples and pears; and a vegetable garden that grows strawberries and wonderful asparagus and corn. In front of the terrace is a five acre lawn with magnificent tall trees which frame the mountains and the lake in the distance.” (excerpts from Chaplin’s World, written by Paul Duncan)
Following Eugene like eager troopers starting the tour at Manoir De Ban, we explored each and every room which Eugene has grew-up in with the presence of his world famous father. A quick historical introduction of the life of Eugene’s beloved father, a timeline found on the ground floor. Born as Charles Spencer Chaplin April 16, 1889 in London up to his last day on earth in the winter of December 25, 1977 here at Manoir De Ban, Vevey, Switzerland.
Born as Charles Spencer Chaplin April 16, 1889 in London up to his last day on earth in the winter of December 25, 1977 here at Manoir De Ban, Vevey, Switzerland.
Eugene explaining the family lineage . . .
Entering the manor library on the ground floor, on which Chaplin spend a considerable amount of time creating, writing down his ideas and composing music as well with Oona his wife. The windows overlook the gardens and onward to the lake side …. it is pure magic here.
Seeing the handwritten notes by Chaplin, creates a feeling as if you have an intimate peek into aspects of this funny man’s life. Which you would never gain by just reading or watching his films. Attached to the library is the living room, where his beloved grand piano lies and his violin framed up. Who knew that Chaplin has a profound respect for Napoleon Bonaparte, for he keeps a cupboard full of Napoleons’ figurines behind the grand piano.
“My father was a loving father, but also a very strict father. He expects good manners from his eight children and especially during dinner times” Eugene Chaplin mentioned, about his father upon reaching the dining room.
The very desk where he created and composed, here are some of the actual notes in his handwriting.
Eugene explaining on his father’s times spent in this very room.
Where Chaplin composed his music . . . and where Oona playing a vital part of writing down the notes for him and at times filming.
Precious memories of family and friends dear to Chaplin . . .
An affinity to Napoleon Bonaparte and the Violin bought by Chaplin with his first wages at 17 years of age.
The Dining room where the whole family eats together. Eugene is reminiscing his memories . . . table manners were always first and foremost for Chaplin.
He has met some of the most amazing people when he is alive.
Like the great Albert Einstein . . .
There are many waxed figure of Charlie Chaplin here and there in the museum . . . likewise when he is alive, with many mischievous antics.
The marriage of Charlie Chaplin and Oona.
It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime to be able to hear a direct descendant of Chaplin . . . recount the moments and memories.
Snippets of life at the manoir is on the screen . . . here is Chaplin with a young Eugene.
One can find the many quotes which Charlie Chaplin live by . . .
The Studio is a must for budding filmmakers and of course for many of Charlie Chaplin fans or not. One would simply exit the Studio being converted into his top fan. Having a renewed determination to watch all of this precious man’s films, just as I have.
Charlie Chaplin in his lifetime achievements have made a staggering 81 films, here at the Studio, there are 35 of his best works being displayed here, namely the The Great Dictator”, “The Kid” and “Modern Times”. Finding the re-creation of the original set-up of how he filmed . . . a delightful discovery for both adults and children. Upon exiting the Studio you will find yourself in Chaplin’s old Bentley garage turned into a gift shop. Take home a part of Chaplin’s world as many of these gifts are unique and only found here.
There’s also a The Tramp Restaurant if you find yourself not rushing for time, perhaps after a meal or light snack you are able to wander around the manors park with its beautiful view of Lake Geneva framed by the Alps.
I find myself falling in-love … genuinely with this side of Charlie Chaplin. The “off-stage” side as Eugene recounts the many loving memories of both his parents, and the funny antics of his father during family and friends gatherings. The film always rolling, walking in and out of different rooms, you are able to view the private moments captured on film of his time here in Vevey and “Manoir De Ban”. You can see, hear, and feel that he is truly well loved and respected here in the beautiful town of Vevey, Switzerland.
Visiting the home of 1920’s King of silent films . . . I would never have expected to come away with loud emotions, he just have that effect on you. . .
Entrance to Ticket counter and The Studio, formerly the Bentley garage area.
The Studio . . .as you enter there will be a short introduction and then one can start to explore. Take an unhurried walk through the main life-blood of Chaplin’s first love.
The waxed figure of Hannah Chaplin, Charlie’s mother.
The music hall posters from before . . .
Reconstructed scene for the movie, The Circus for Keystone Studios in Hollywood.
They say Michael Jackson has learnt a thing or two from Charlie . . .
A reconstructed “barber shop” from the movie, The Great Dictator
The Cabin of Gold Rush, the movie. The cabin can tilt left and right . . . genius!
The films that were edited in the editing room. Not all recovered but manage to salvage some.
The many awards and original bowler hat, his famous shoes and walking stick.
Heading up to the exit . . . the many films he has written, directed, acted and composed the theme.
The former Bentley garage turned giftshop.
The Tramp restaurant is tastefully designed to the feel of Chaplin’s World.
And of course the good food served . . . bon appetit!
Chaplin’s World Opening Hours and Ticket Rates:
Opening hours 2018
Chaplin’s World is open 7 days a week except December 25th and January 1st.
From January 8th to Mars 31st: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.*
From April 1st to September 30th: 9 a.m to 6 p.m*
From October 1st to December 31st: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.*
Tickets can be bought until 1 hour before closing
From 02.01.2018 to 31.12.2018
Adults CHF 25.– (16 years old and over)
Children CHF 18.– (6-15 years old)
Children under 6 years old – Free
Senior* (from 60 years old) CHF 23.- *please provide a justification document
Student* CHF 23.- *please provide a justification document
Family Ticket (up to 4 people) CHF 72.-
2 adults and 2 children or 1 adult and 3 children
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Be smart and enjoy an exclusive web offer: save up to 20%
Booking your entry ticket up to 5 days before the date of your visit! This ticket gives access to the museum according to the opening times of the chosen date.
Rate from:
– CHF 20.- per Adult (from 16 to 59 years) instead of CHF 25.- (full rate)
– CHF 20.- per Senior (from 60 years) / Student instead of CHF 23.- (full rate)
– CHF 18.- per Youth (from 6 to 15 years)
– Free admission for children under 6 years.
Read More on A Perfect Winter ❆ Switzerland:
1) Having Charlie Chaplin in Vevey
2) PerfeKt winter at 3,454 feet on a fine Thursday
3) Heading up to Grindelwald-First (pronounce as ‘Fierst’)
