Epic Hikes of the World ( PDFDrive )

essential kit
And beside it is a vast statue of St Bernard himself, his back turned to the
mountains and his outstretched bronze hand pointing travellers home to the
hospice. Guests return one by one as the sun sinks over the Mont Blanc massif,
colouring the snow rosy pink on its way.
Since the building of a tunnel, the hospice is no longer a necessary staging post,
and yet thousands of visitors still make the journey every winter. Some people come
to conquer a mountain, a few to look for Jesus Christ walking barefoot in the
snowdrifts. Many come to be above the world below, here where the air is crisp
and the views stretch forever. OS
ORIENTATION
Start/End // Bourg St Pierre
Distance // About 5 miles (8km) one way
Getting there // The closest airport is Geneva. From here it’s a two-hour drive to
the northern limit of the pass.
Tours // www.swissmountainleader.com and www.alpinetreks.com offer two-day
treks, overnighting at the Hospice du GrandSt-Bernard.
Where to stay // Before the ascent, at Cabane du Plan du Jeu
(cabaneplandujeu.ch), or luxurious options in Marigny.
When to go // Snow is on the ground from December to May.
What to take // Snowshoes lock around walking boots; winter boots will be
comfier, but sturdy three-season boots are sufficient. Pack robust waterproof
clothing, sunglasses and high-factor sun cream, with avalanche transmitters
advisable.
More info // www.saint-bernard.ch
Things to know // Check your travel insurance covers you for Alpine snowshoeing
– Swiss mountain-rescue services charge (a lot) for call-outs.