Little St Bernard Pass: an Alpine adventure close to the campsite
In short
The Little St Bernard Pass (2,188 m) marks the border between France and Italy. You can reach it on foot from Bourg-Saint-Maurice (30 km, +1,379 m, 4-5 h) or by bike via the Route des Grandes Alpes. In winter, the cross-border ski area links La Rosière and La Thuile; all year round, the hospice and the alpine garden complete the visit.
Key takeaways
- An Alpine pass rich in history, at 2,188 m, on the France-Italy border.
- Hiking: 30 km route from Bourg-Saint-Maurice, 4-5 h, +1,379 m ascent, moderate difficulty.
- Cycling / mountain biking: legendary Route des Grandes Alpes, +1,250 m ascent, spectacular panoramas.
- Skiing: cross-border ski area in winter (La Rosière / La Thuile).
- Nature and culture: unique flora and fauna; hospice and alpine garden to visit.
Are your feet itching to explore the trails, your lungs longing for the pure mountain air, and your eyes dreaming of breathtaking landscapes? Answer the call of the mountains! The Little St Bernard Pass attracts the sportiest holidaymakers and nature lovers staying at our campsite in Savoie. The paths leading to it are less than 10 km from our campsite. Get ready for a unique adventure in the heart of the Alps, between France and Italy!
The Little St Bernard Pass: a crossroads of history at 2,188 m
Perched at an altitude of 2,188 m, the Little St Bernard Pass links French Savoie to the Aosta Valley in Italy. It has been a historic crossing point since Roman times.
Imagine how many travellers, merchants and pilgrims walked this Alpine route long before you! The hospice, founded in the 11th century by Saint Bernard of Menthon, watched over them, and today bears witness to the pass's rich history.
During the ascent, you cross a unique place where culture and nature blend. You enjoy grand views of Mont Blanc, admire the alpine flora and soak up the Franco-Italian atmosphere.
Outdoor activities for all lovers of escape
The Little St Bernard Pass is an exceptional playground, whatever the season! Planning to come under the summer sun or the winter blanket of snow? The experience will be unforgettable whatever your plans! In summer, it is a hiking paradise. And do not forget the sporting events, such as the famous trail race held there in late September! In winter, it is a ski resort popular with snow sports fans.
On foot: the hike to the top of the pass
Ready for the big climb during your holidays in Savoie? You can set off from Bourg-Saint-Maurice (7 km from our campsite), the gateway to the Tarentaise!
From there, follow the winding road or take the Little St Bernard hiking trails. The route first passes through the hamlets of Séez, Villard-Dessous and Villard-Dessus. The slope then climbs gently towards La Rosière, a high-altitude resort with already spectacular views (in summer, do not miss the summer toboggan run)! The final section is more mineral, following the Reclus torrent, before reaching the summit on the France-Italy border. Up there, the old hospice and the statue of Saint Bernard await you!
Duration: 4 to 5 h of climbing; Distance: 29.9 km; Ascent: +1,379 m; Difficulty: moderate.
In the saddle: the legendary road for cyclists and bikers
The Little St Bernard Pass is a legendary stage of the Route des Grandes Alpes. It is also a regular feature of the Tour de France, like the Col de la Madeleine, a little further south.
From Séez (10 km from our campsite), tackle the Little St Bernard Pass on a charming mountain route. The climb starts gently on a small road towards the hamlet of Saint-Germain, before joining a renovated track that winds through the Savoie pastures. The atmosphere quickly becomes more alpine, with open views and a steady route, ideal for testing your endurance. On a classic mountain bike, an e-MTB or a well-equipped gravel bike, the track remains pleasant and varied. The last section follows the old Roman road, a historic remnant leading up to the pass, at over 2,000 m.
We recommend this sporty and immersive climb to nature lovers looking to switch off, in good physical condition.
Distance: 14.5 km; Ascent: +1,250 m; Average gradient: 8%.
In winter: cross-border skiing at the Little St Bernard Pass
In winter, the Little St Bernard Pass becomes a vast ski area: the Espace San Bernardo. It links the resort of La Rosière in France with La Thuile in Italy. You can ski from one country to the other in the same day. The slopes are varied, the views pristine and the snow excellent thanks to the altitude!
Please note: if you cross to the Italian side, remember to carry your passport or ID card! And always check the Little St Bernard weather before setting off!
Nature and culture: discoveries at the top of the pass
The Little St Bernard Pass is both a natural wonder and an open history book. Exploring its slopes in summer, you will discover meadows dotted with blue gentians and rhododendrons! Keep your eyes open, chamois and marmots are never far away on the rocky slopes! And do not miss the cultural discoveries at the top:
- Little St Bernard Hospice: a massive building, designed to withstand the harsh Alpine winter. A permanent exhibition traces the history of the pass from prehistory to the present day.
- Chanousia alpine garden: founded in 1897, this garden is home to about 1,600 species of alpine plants, some rare or endangered. You can enjoy self-guided or guided tours. The flowering is spectacular from late July to mid-September.
Book your holiday in Savoie now at l’Eden de la Vanoise! Our 3-star campsite with a heated pool is in the heart of the French Alps, near Bourg-Saint-Maurice and La Rosière. It is the perfect base after this big climb. Choose your accommodation or pitch and come and take on the challenge of the Little St Bernard Pass!
Sébastien’s tipIf you hike in late summer, do not miss the Chanousia alpine garden at the top: the flowering is spectacular from late July to mid-September, a lovely reward after the climb.
See on the map