Equipment and period
As the Tour du Saint-Bernard is a high mountain trek, you must be properly equipped:
- Backpack
- Sleeping bag liner
- Sticks
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Sun protection (hat, cream, glasses)
- Pocket pharmacy
- Small shower linen
- Firm mountain boots
- Waterproof clothing
- Warm and light clothing
- Change of clothes
- Vitaminized food (e.g. fruit)
- Carbohydrate and fibre rich food
- Sufficient liquid (not gaseous)
- Camera
- Identity papers
- Cash money
It is advisable to do the tour between July and October.
Topo-guide
We strongly suggest that you acquire the official topo-guide: https://www.suisse-itinerance.ch/trekking/43-tour-du-st-bernard.html.
Important numbers
Unique number for rescue in Switzerland / Valais: 144
Unique number for rescue in Italy / Valle d'Aosta: 112
Access by public transport
The stages of Liddes Bourg-Saint-Pierre, the Grand-Saint-Bernard pass and La Fouly are accessible by public transport. You can consult the timetables on https://www.cff.ch.
Access by private car
You can leave your car all week on the parking place located in Bourg-Saint-Pierre: https://map.search.ch/?pos=582151,89257&z=4096.
GPS coordinates: 45.95483, 7.20831
Code of conduct for hikers
1. Respect the restrictions
Pay attention to the notice boards in the area.
2. Use the existing paths and itineraries
This helps protect the delicate biotopes of the fauna and flora. Don’t trespass on private property and close gates behind you.
3. Take photographs of flowers rather than picking them
Flowers are at their most beautiful in their natural environment. Pick fruit and mushrooms in moderation and avoid doing so on designated days.
4. Keep the environment clean
Take your rubbish away with you. Should you need to go to the toilet, avoid doing so near water courses and cover up human waste and toilet paper. Bear in mind that the snow will melt in the spring (so avoid the proximity of mountain huts for example). Paper hankies and wipes should not be used as these take a long time to decompose.
5. Travel ecologically
Take advantage of the numerous offers on public transport.
6. Respect any restrictions on access or parking
It is generally forbidden to drive along forest tracks. Avoid parking in unauthorized areas: this annoys farmers and land owners and can damage vegetation.
7. Eat local produce and save water and energy
Spending the night in the area and buying local produce helps support mountain regions and makes your climb eco-friendlier. Save water and energy in your accommodation: both are in limited supply!
8. Keep dogs on a lead, especially in the forest
Dogs love chasing wild animals, which puts them under a lot of stress.
