Alpine Passes Trail, Stage 33/43

The short, steep route leads along the thousand-year-old pass route through a rugged mountain landscape. The alpine flora and beautiful mountain lakes compensate for the harsh climate. The route ends just before the Italian border on the Great St. Bernard, the breeding site of the famous rescue dogs.

The starting point is Bourg-St-Pierre; the nearest bus stop, Bourg-St-Pierre, Commune, is around 300 m from the start. From the church of Saint-Pierre, the yellow-marked hiking trail leads out of the village and up the valley across open meadows. After a good hour, it passes the Relais du barrage des Toules and shortly afterwards reaches Lac des Toules. The reservoir forms part of a hydroelectric power scheme.

Above the lake, broad slopes characterise the long ascent. With no technical difficulties but a total elevation gain of just over 1,000 metres, the trail continues via L’Hospitalet towards the pass. Shortly before the destination, the route passes the Hospice du Grand-Saint-Bernard, whose community welcomes travellers and pilgrims.

After a good four hours, the Col du Grand Saint-Bernard is reached. At 2,469 m, this is also the highest point of the hike, not far from the Italian border. The Le Grand-St-Bernard, Hospice bus stop is located directly at the destination.