Via Francigena: Saint Bernard Pass to Ivrea
Walk the authentic Via Francigena on your own pace
Lifetime Deposit
Self-Guided
Via Francigena: Saint Bernard Pass to Ivrea Overview
At the beginning of the second millennium, thousands of pilgrims traveled across Europe searching for the "Celestial Land" in Rome, the Holy Land, and Santiago de Compostela. The Via Francigena, or "Way to Rome," was among the most significant pilgrimage routes, linking Canterbury to Rome. Used for centuries by people from all walks of life, it was a symbol of unity, connecting various European cultures and beliefs. The path crosses the Swiss Alps through the Great Saint Bernard Pass, where pilgrims were aided by Augustinian monks and their iconic dogs. The route descends into Italy’s Aosta Valley, winding through vineyards, castles, and ancient towns with rich Roman and medieval heritage. Landmarks include Aosta’s Roman ruins, Chambave’s vineyards, the Bard Fortress, and the Roman bridge in Pont-Saint-Martin. The path’s final Italian stages lead through the historical town of Ivrea, which holds Roman relics and medieval fortifications. Rediscovering this route today reflects Europe’s enduring legacy of shared history and cultural connection.
This tour represents Part 1 in the Via Francigena route, offering a journey through Italy's scenic landscapes and historic sites; explore other sections below to complete your pilgrimage experience:
Trip highlights
Cross the historic Great Saint Bernard Pass in the Swiss Alps, where Augustinian monks and their rescue dogs famously aided pilgrims for centuries.
Explore Aosta’s ancient Roman sites, including the Pretorian Arch and the Roman theatre, along with medieval castles like Fenis and Verrès.
Walk along the scenic "Chemins de Vignobles" trail, passing Quart and Nus Castles with views over the valley’s vineyards and orchards.
Discover the impressive Bard Fortress overlooking the valley and the ancient Roman bridge in Pont-Saint-Martin, marking the border between Val d’Aosta and Piedmont.
Day By Day Itinerary
Reaching the Gran San Bernardo Pass, you’ll find the historic “Hotel Italia,” where pilgrims once rested on their journey.
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Saint Bernard Pass
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- Dinner
From Saint Bernard Pass, cross into Italy and continue on to Etroubles along the Via Francigena route, with scenic trails and historic avalanche shelters.
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Etroubles
- Distance:
- 13.5 km
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Walk from Etroubles to Aosta, passing through meadows, pinewoods, and historic chapels, following the ancient stream “Ru Neuf.”
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Aosta
- Distance:
- 15.5 km
- Meals:
- Breakfast
The route winds through vineyards and castles, with highlights such as Quart Castle and prehistoric rock engravings called Coppelle.
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Nus
- Distance:
- 16 km
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Follow the ancient Rus canals through vineyards, with a stop at Crotta de Vegneron for wine tasting, and enjoy a spa upon arrival in Saint Vincent.
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Saint Vincent
- Distance:
- 17 km
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Walk along the valley, visiting Saint Germain Castle and sections of the strada delle Gallie, with an option to visit Issogne Castle en route to Verrès.
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Verrès
- Distance:
- 16.5 km
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Today’s journey includes medieval sites like San Martino Church and the Enchallod bridge in Arnad, plus the ancient road of the Gauls, with an optional stop at Bard Fortress.
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Pont Saint Martin
- Distance:
- 13 km
- Meals:
- Breakfast, dinner
Journey through the Piedmont hills to Ivrea, where you can explore the historic castle, Santo Stefano tower, and sample the local Novecento cake.
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Ivrea
- Distance:
- 21 km
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Today your tour concludes after the breakfast.
- Overnight Location:
- None
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Tour Map
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Inclusions
Included
- 8 breakfasts and 2 dinners are included.
- Accommodations for 8 nights are included.
- Luggage transfer is included in your package (1 piece per person). Any other transfers are not included.
- Digital information kit and app
- Taxes
- Via Francigena Passport
- Luggage Transfers
Not included
- Guide services
- Meals or transfers not mentioned as included
- Entry fees to local objects
Optional Extras
- Airport transfers
- Single Room upgrades
Reviews
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
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FAQ
We rate this tour as a 4 / 5. This tour is moderately challenging due to varied terrain, daily distances, and occasional elevation gains. Hikes range from 13 km to 21 km per day, with some steep sections, especially through mountainous areas like the Caha Pass. The trail involves a mix of well-trodden paths, country roads, and vineyard trails, with certain stretches requiring a steady pace and a good level of fitness. While challenging in sections, the tour is accessible to those with an active lifestyle or moderate hiking experience, making it suitable for intermediate hikers.
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel, since you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided with all the information you’ll need to follow the route each day and often have access to phone support or other kinds of assistance. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
8 breakfasts and 2 dinners are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover hiking. Get your travel insurance.
To reach Saint Bernard Pass, start by taking a train from Geneva to Martigny, followed by a bus that connects to the pass. The Great Saint Bernard Tunnel provides an alternative route under the mountains. The tunnel runs from Martigny in Switzerland to Saint-Rhémy-en-Bosses in Italy and is open year-round. Note that the tunnel is a toll road, so plan accordingly for this fee.
This is a self-guided tour where guide services are not provided, however, you will be provided all the tour material in English, as well as helpline phone number.
The tour ends in Ivrea.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
Why book Via Francigena: Saint Bernard Pass to Ivrea with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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