Did You Know The World’s Smallest Vineyard In Switzerland Is Owned By Dalai Lama? (Image: Canva)
La Vigne à Farinet in Switzerland is the smallest registered vineyard on Earth. Not many people know but it is owned by spiritual leader Dalai Lama. However, the stunning place did not always belong to him, it was originally owned by Abbé Pierre.
Sprawling at just 1.618 square metres, the three vines at Farinet – Fendant, Pinot Noir and Petite Arvine – involve participation of celebrities and prominent personalities from politics, sport and cinema.
It is no secret that Switzerland is known for its attention to detail and production of superior quality goods such as wine. Over 250 grape varietals can be found growing on the 15,000 hectares of vineyards owned by 1,500 producers throughout Switzerland – and Farinet is one of those.
The yearly harvest is mixed with the best Valais wine to produce one thousand bottles, which are then sold for a charitable cause. It is less than an hour path from Sentier des Vitraux to access the hill where the vineyard is planted.
The glass trail is dotted with 21 artworks created by the glassmaker Théo Imboden. He based his work on the drawings by the painter Robert Héritier. The memory of Farinet lives on along the route. Truly inspired by Farinet’s life, the trail provides also provides the travellers with an opportunity to reflect on human values.