Gran San Bernardo

The Gran San Bernardo pass betwen Italy and Switzerland, has been since ancient times the preferred route for foreign travellers. Its history is rich with famous individuals and others, who with the help of  'Marroniers' (the old guides) have passed over this col. Amongst the many we remember Napoleon with his troops heading for Marengo, and victory against the Austrians.

On this namesake col is Europes highest (2473metres) and most ancient hostel, requested by San Bernardo of Mentone, protecor of wayfarers. Today a modern tunnel connects the two states, but above ground it is still possible to breath the air of olden times inside the refuge-museum managed by the San Agostino brothers. Inside its ancient walls hospitality is that of always; everyone is offered a mug of hot tea after the long ascent. For those wanting to visit the hostel there are two alternatives: and ascent from Italy starting from Saint Rhèmy en Bosses, almost a four hour walk; or from the swiss side leaving from the car park of the small ski station town of Super Saint Bernard, the shortest and most frequented route. In both cases the way is obvious, and mostly follows the summer road. Avoid periods immediately after snowfall becasue of the avalanche risk. The col can represent your goal, or be the departure point for ascents of the surrounding peaks, amongst which: Mont Fourchon, Pain de Sucre, and col Fenetre, with the possibility of descending through neighbouring valleys.

It is possible to overnight at the hostel and have enjoyable family get-togethers with children on a Sunday excursion, or see famous alpinists training for higher peaks, or even spiritual people in search of the truth, maybe on skis. The famous Saint Bernard dogs with barrels of liqueur around their necks are now almost legend, and have been substituted by other breeds that are more agile and better suited to avalanche rescue, for example the German Shepard.

Before going, always inform the priests of your arrival and ask for information on the snow conditions. Don't forget a sung mass and a visit to the museum; only in this way can you enter into perfect harmony with the peace and tranquility of this place.