Les cols du Grand-St-Bernard

From the pass height of the Great Saint Bernard, the route leads for 100 meters on the Swiss side of the border before the path steeply ascends to the left to the Col des Chevaux at 2714 m a.s.l. Then follows the descent into the side valley Combe de Drône, before the path ascends again to the Col du Bastillon at 2754 m a.s.l.

Afterwards, the route approaches the first of the three mountain lakes, the Lacs de Fenêtre. After hiking between the second and third lake, the path leads up again to the Fenêtre de Ferret (2694 m a.s.l.), which lies on the border between Switzerland and Italy. Zig-zagging, it then goes down again to the pass road before the fourth and last ascent to the pass along a path towards the Swiss border is tackled.

We recommend:

Good footwear Weather-dependent clothing: always carry a waterproof vest Headgear Sunscreen Water bottle Picnic Camera Binoculars (optional) Trekking poles (optional) Printout of the hiking trail (click "Print" to download) 

For certain hikes:

Swimsuit

The mountains, a place of joy to share and respect. The mountain world is a place to meet and experience unforgettable moments together – whether by bike or on foot. To ensure all users can benefit, it is essential to share this space with respect for nature and agriculture. Respectful behavior allows everyone to enjoy their leisure activities under the best conditions. Inform yourself about recommendations and rules. Assess your own skills and fitness well. Use of the various routes is fundamentally at your own risk.

For all hikes:

Carry a map with you. Download the complete description of the hiking trail with a large-scale map by clicking "Print" at the top right of the page. Use only marked hiking trails and observe all signposts and instructions - for your own safety, to protect grazing animals, and out of respect for wildlife. Close gates after passing through. Behave considerately towards other path users, plants, and animals.  

For mountain hikes: 

Carry additional sun protection. UV rays at high altitude can be very strong, even in cloudy weather. Plan your hike carefully: consider the required fitness level of all participants, weather forecasts, and seasonal dependencies. Weather conditions in the mountains can change very quickly and without warning. Appropriate clothing and sufficient provisions (food and drink) are very important. In unstable weather, better turn back early.

For high alpine hikes:

Inform your family about your hiking route. If possible, avoid hiking alone. Do not go onto glaciers without a mountain guide. Observe warning signals indicating dangers at riverbanks, along water courses below dams and reservoirs: water levels can rise quickly and without warning.

Traveling correctly

Preparation for a hike

View this route on SchweizMobil: 

No. 210 Les cols du Grand-St-Bernard

More information about the destination:

Pays du St-Bernard