Where is the Great Saint Bernard Pass?
Switzerland, europe
74.6 km
1,915 m
easy
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Swiss and Italian Alps on the Great Saint Bernard Pass, straddling the border at a cool 8,100 feet. This isn't just any mountain road; it's *the* mountain road.
The pass itself is about 46 miles of paved goodness, connecting Martigny in Switzerland to Aosta in Italy. This route is ancient, like Julius Caesar ancient (he and Napoleon both took their armies through here!). It's been a trade route for millennia, and now it's a playground for those seeking epic views.
You can expect switchbacks galore as you climb. If you're cycling from the Swiss side, you're looking at a 30.6km climb with an average grade of 5.7%. From the Italian side, it's a 32km ride at 5.9%.
Up top, you'll find a stunning mountain lake, hotels, restaurants, and the famous hospice, founded way back in 1049. Oh, and did I mention the St. Bernard dogs? The monks here bred them for rescue missions, making them an icon of the Alps.
The road's generally open from late May to mid-October, weather permitting. Even in summer, the Alps can get chilly, so pack layers! You might even spot some snow. Winter can bring up to 10 meters of snow and temps plummeting to -30°C. If you're visiting in the colder months, a tunnel bypasses the pass and ensures safe travels. The opening scene of the original *Italian Job* was filmed here too! Get ready for an unforgettable alpine adventure.
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 74.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,915 m
- Difficulty
- easy
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