ViaFrancigena, Stage 10/10

This is certainly the most symbolic stage of the Via Francigena. The route to the pass is via a road that has been used by the whole of Europe for 2,000 years. Numerous archaeological sites line the ascent, notably in L'Hospitalet and at the Barasson Pass.

From Bourg-St-Pierre, the hiking trail initially passes the Eglise Saint-Pierre before leaving the last houses behind. The valley soon opens out into meadows and pastures as the route steadily gains height. After just over three kilometres, the Relais du barrage des Toules stands beside the trail; shortly afterwards, the path follows the shore of Lac des Toules. Its dam is used to generate hydroelectric power.

Above the lake, the landscape remains broad and open. The long ascent leads through the Val d’Entremont, with a few short counter-climbs and around 1,100 metres of elevation gain in total. At L’Hospitalet, the rockier terrain around the pass draws closer, after which the trail continues via Le Tronchet towards the head of the valley. Despite the considerable elevation difference, the entire route follows yellow-marked hiking trails.

After just over four hours, the Hospice du Grand-Saint-Bernard comes into view, still welcoming travellers and pilgrims today. Immediately beside it lies the Col du Grand Saint-Bernard, a 2,469 m road pass near the Italian border. At just under 2,500 m, the route reaches its highest point and ends at the pass.