Grand Saint Bernard Snowshoe tour

In winter, there's no road access to the snowed-in Grand Saint Bernard pass, which forms the border between Switzerland and Italy. This makes it a perfect objective for a wilderness journey for snowshoers and ski tourers. Surrounding the Grand Saint Bernard pass are a number of interesting peaks and passes to explore on snowshoes or skis. A night in the hospice is a magical experience in it’s own right, the picturesque old buildings, the history, the solitude and the hospitality of the monks and the staff really is unique.

Day 1: Ascend to the Grand Saint Bernard Hospice
We meet in Chamonix for a quick briefing and equipment check before setting of in our 4x4 van. It is possible to meet elsewhere, e.g. Martigny. The road journey from Chamonix is interesting and varied. We cross two major mountain passes and drop down into the Rhone valley before the last stretch up towards the Grand Saint Bernard pass. We park up, put our snowshoes on, and spend a moment going through our safety equipment and procedures. There’s also time for snowshoe instruction for those new to snowshoeing. 
Our route follows the Dranse stream up through the increasingly narrowing Combe des Morts, until the terrain opens up and the Grand Saint Bernard hospice is visible ahead. We settle in at the hospice and have time for a look around the beautiful old buildings which include a small museum. After our hearty evening meal, some chose to join the evening ceremony performed by the monks. Others, simply relax in the reading room or opt for an early night in order to be well rested for the following day.

Day 2: Mont Fourchon
We’re gently woken by the sound of relaxing music playing through the hospice speakers. After breakfast, we put our snowshoes on again and leave the hospice behind us. We cross a frozen-up lake and the border into Italy. The terrain is easy to start but soon starts rising steadily up into the snowy bowl that eventually leads to the summit of Mont Fourchon (2902m). We trace our route back, via the hospice, to our van and return back to Chamonix.

Trip details

Grade:
Suitable for walkers of any level and experience with an adventurous spirit. No previous winter experience is neccessary.

Duration:
2 days tour with 2 days snowshoe walking.

Accommodation:
Hospice.

Group size and guides:
Up to 8 clients with 1 certified English-speaking guide.