Crossing the Great St. Bernard Pass is like riding one of the most legendary roads in the Alps.

Connecting Switzerland's Valais region with Italy's Aosta Valley, this iconic mountain pass reaches an altitude of 2,469 metres (8,100 ft). For more than two thousand years, it has served as one of the Alps' most important crossing points.

Today, it attracts motorcyclists with its breathtaking alpine scenery, unique atmosphere, and remarkable heritage. Between the panoramic road, the famous hospice, and the alpine lake at the summit, every stop tells a chapter of the Alps' rich history.

At ALPEX Moto, it's one of the highlights of our signature routes linking Switzerland, France, and Italy.

Quick Facts

Information Details
Altitude 2,469 m (8,100 ft)
Connects Martigny (Switzerland) – Saint-Rhémy-en-Bosses (Italy)
Countries Switzerland / Italy
Road Surface Rough on the Swiss side, excellent on the Italian side
Difficulty ★★☆☆☆
Opening Season Typically June to October

Why Ride the Great St. Bernard Pass?

The Great St. Bernard offers an atmosphere unlike any other Alpine pass.

You don't come here just for the curves.

You come for the history.

For the silence.

For the scenery.

For the feeling of riding a road that has been travelled since Roman times.

The climb is gradual, the bends are smooth and enjoyable, and the views become more spectacular with every kilometre as you approach the summit.

This is a road that encourages you to slow down and truly enjoy the journey.

The Ascent from Martigny

The Swiss side of the pass begins in Martigny.

The road first follows the valley before gradually climbing into the mountains.

The corners are smooth and consistent, making for an enjoyable ride on virtually any type of motorcycle.

As you gain elevation, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and alpine.

The peaks draw closer.

The air grows cooler.

The final kilometres offer a true immersion into the high mountains.

The Ascent from Italy

Starting from Saint-Rhémy-en-Bosses, the atmosphere is completely different.

Stone villages, alpine meadows, and the dramatic mountains of the Aosta Valley create a landscape that is unmistakably Italian.

The climb is smooth and flowing.

The scenery is spectacular.

With every bend, the Alps seem to grow even more majestic.

Many riders particularly enjoy this side of the pass for its wilder, more remote character.

The Summit: A Place Steeped in History

At the top of the pass stands one of the Alps' most iconic landmarks: the Great St. Bernard Hospice.

Founded nearly a thousand years ago to shelter travelers crossing the mountains, it still welcomes visitors from around the world today.

For centuries, the famous St. Bernard dogs assisted the monks in their mountain rescue missions.

Although those days are now part of history, the pass remains forever associated with these legendary dogs, which have become an enduring symbol of the Alps.

Just a short walk away, Lake Great St. Bernard completes one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the region.

An Ideal Pass for Motorcycle Touring

The Great St. Bernard Pass is a place where you naturally slow down and enjoy the ride.

The road surface is excellent.

The corners are smooth and flowing.

Outside the busiest summer periods, traffic is generally light and enjoyable.

It's the perfect route for relaxed rides, scenic photo stops, and multi-day motorcycle adventures.

The Best Stops Along the Way

No ride across the Great St. Bernard Pass is complete without taking a few breaks.

Our favourite stops include:

• The summit sign

• Lake Great St. Bernard

• The Great St. Bernard Hospice

• Scenic viewpoints on the Swiss side

• Panoramic views over the Aosta Valley

When Is the Best Time to Ride?

June

The reopening of the pass marks the beginning of the Alpine riding season.

The remaining snowbanks create a spectacular mountain setting.

July

Ideal riding conditions.

Long daylight hours and generally dry roads make this one of the best months to visit.

August

Traffic increases but the ride remains enjoyable.

September

Our favourite time of year.

Cooler temperatures, beautiful golden light, and fewer visitors make September perfect for experiencing the pass at its best.

Can You Combine It with Other Alpine Passes?

Absolutely.

The Great St. Bernard Pass fits perfectly into a motorcycle tour that also includes:

• Little St. Bernard Pass

• Col de l'Iseran

• Mont Cenis Pass

• Or a grand loop through Switzerland, France, and Italy via some of the Alps' most spectacular mountain passes.

Motorcycle Road Trip Through the Alps: Switzerland, France & Italy Across the Most Beautiful Alpine Passes

Discover the Great St. Bernard Pass with ALPEX Moto

The Great St. Bernard Pass is one of the signature routes featured in our Alpine motorcycle tours.

Beyond the pleasure of riding, this journey offers the opportunity to discover a place steeped in history, surrounded by spectacular scenery, and one of the most beautiful gateways between Switzerland and Italy.

We adapt every tour to the weather and road conditions to ensure every rider enjoys the best possible experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Great St. Bernard Pass difficult to ride?

No. With its excellent road surface and flowing layout, it is accessible to most motorcyclists.

Can you visit the hospice?

Yes. The Great St. Bernard Hospice welcomes visitors throughout the opening season. If time allows, it's well worth a visit.

When is the best time to ride?

Between June and September, when the pass is open and riding conditions are at their best.

How much time should I allow?

The crossing itself takes about one hour without stops. If you plan to enjoy the viewpoints and visit the hospice, allow between two and three hours.

Conclusion

The Great St. Bernard Pass is far more than a mountain crossing between Switzerland and Italy.

It is a place where history, breathtaking scenery, and the joy of motorcycling come together.

Its legendary hospice, alpine lake, and magnificent landscapes make it a must-ride destination for every motorcycle enthusiast.

Whether you're passing through as part of a longer Alpine road trip or visiting specifically to experience this iconic pass, the Great St. Bernard will undoubtedly leave you with unforgettable memories.