Only open from the middle of June to October, this 45-mile long, 8110ft high mountain pass is the highest and fondest in the Swiss Alps, offering mesmerising views of glaciers, deep canyons and several calm, glimmering lakes. The route has been well known for millennia – carrying the likes of Julius Caesar, Napoleon, Frederick Barbarossa and Hannibal along its back; ultimately the most notable being St. Bernard of Menthon, who established the beautiful Hospice in his name, complete with monastery, St. Bernard kennel (note that the dogs’ old role of mountain rescuer/beer server is redundant) and museum. At the summit is the ruin of a temple to Jupiter.

Written by  George Monkhouse.

Add comment

Comments, reviews and questions

How Scary is it!

We have used the tunnel many times now but I am keen to drive the pass sometime but my wife does not like 'dangerous' roads with no edges! The road on the pass does not LOOK bad but are there side walls all along it or are there just open edges to the sides?

How much longer is it than the tunnel? I've heard it takes an extra 4 hours which seems unlikely! Any ideas?

Hope to try it in June next year

Thanks

Alistair

 

Question posted 28th September 2009 by Alistair Bovey.

1 reply...

I would say it adds at least 90 minutes, maybe more with slow traffic. The roads are very windy with incredible views - no sides as such, but barriers to protect you.

 

Reply posted 28th September 2009 by Emilie Stokes.

When does the pass close for the winter? Will it be open to the end of October, 2009?

 

Comment posted 15th September 2009 by Claudia.

1 reply...

depends on snow conditions, of course, but it normally starts to be closed in November I believe. Check out their website for the latest.

 

Reply posted 15th September 2009 by Andrew.

Cost of using the tunnel

You give all the facts but not the cost for a car using the tunnel. How much is it?

 

Question posted 11th July 2009 by Josie Hill.

1 reply...

The Pass (free and scenic!) is completely different to the Tunnel - which costs c. 20 EUR, but depends on size of car and direction of travel. See http://www.letunnel.com/homepage.asp?l=3 for info.

 

Reply posted 11th July 2009 by Jenny.

Add a comment, review or question

Make a comment Ask a question Write a review

Review title

Your comment

Your rating

Choose rating... Don't go Go Must go

Your name

Your email address