
Great St Bernard Pass and Hospice
A historic alpine hospice on the Great St Bernard Pass, offering unique stays, a museum, and the chance to meet legendary St. Bernard dogs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds

Great St Bernard Pass and Hospice
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic alpine hospice on the Great St Bernard Pass, offering unique stays, a museum, and the chance to meet legendary St. Bernard dogs.
"An extraordinary location with very interesting history and the chance to see the famous St Bernard dogs."

🧺 Laundry is Included!
Don't miss the included laundry service; it's a hidden perk that adds great value to your stay.
🐶 Meet the Famous Dogs
Visit Barryland to see the iconic St. Bernards and learn about their incredible history.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Hospice Itself
Summit of the Great St Bernard Pass
A historic alpine refuge with centuries of history, offering a unique stay and a glimpse into monastic life.

St. Bernard Dog Museum & Kennels
Barryland (adjacent to Hospice)
Meet the famous St. Bernard dogs, learn about their heroic rescue past, and see them in their natural habitat.

Treasures Exhibit & Church
Hospice complex
Explore fascinating relics, art, and the beautiful church that has served travelers for centuries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Alpine Stays
Embrace the History & Dogs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Laundry is Included!
Don't miss the included laundry service; it's a hidden perk that adds great value to your stay.
🐶 Meet the Famous Dogs
Visit Barryland to see the iconic St. Bernards and learn about their incredible history.
⛰️ Pack for Alpine Weather
Even in summer, mountain weather can change rapidly. Pack layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures.
⛪ Attend a Service
Experience the spiritual side of the hospice by attending mass or vespers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Laundry is Included!
Don't miss the included laundry service; it's a hidden perk that adds great value to your stay.
🐶 Meet the Famous Dogs
Visit Barryland to see the iconic St. Bernards and learn about their incredible history.
⛰️ Pack for Alpine Weather
Even in summer, mountain weather can change rapidly. Pack layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures.
⛪ Attend a Service
Experience the spiritual side of the hospice by attending mass or vespers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Great St Bernard Hospice for its extraordinary location, rich history, and the unique experience of staying in an ancient alpine refuge. The St. Bernard dogs are a major highlight. Some find the accommodation basic and pricey for what's offered, and staff can sometimes be perceived as cold, though many find the atmosphere welcoming.
"Was pricey for hostel-type accommodations, but it is in Switzerland. Accommodated our family of five with 2 chamber rooms to ourselves. Only 2 showers and 2 toilets unlocked in the community bathroom. Dinner was delicious, breakfast seemed minimal for hikers and cyclists (bread, butter, jam, tea, coffee, hot cocoa), but also strangely standard for the mountain huts. Staff was mixed — some very kind and helpful, others cold and uninterested. Important note: laundry service is included in the price! We found this out too late in our stay because it is not advertised; definitely would have increased our sense of value for the stay had we been able to use. Be sure and tour the Treasures exhibit and church, and attend a mass or vespers."
Amy Beerwinkle
"An extraordinary location with very interesting history. Beautifully renovated and maintained place where you should definitely do your next ski touring trip in winter. The food was really basic and the staff was professional but a bit cold. Very interesting museum that they opened up for us after dinner"
Anne Belt
"Very special place. Recommend staying here very much if you are hiking or bikepacking.
Food is just what you need after a long day in the saddle. The atmosphere is extremely welcoming."
Niek van der Horst
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The hospice is accessible by car via the Great St Bernard Pass, which is open seasonally (typically June to October). You can also reach it by hiking or cycling routes. Many travelers drive from Switzerland or Italy. Be aware of potential traffic, especially during peak season.
No, the pass is generally closed during winter due to heavy snowfall. It typically reopens in late spring or early summer. Check road conditions before your visit.
Yes, the Great St Bernard Pass is a popular route for cyclists, offering challenging climbs and rewarding descents. Be prepared for steep gradients and variable weather conditions.
There is parking available near the hospice, though it can be busy during peak times. Consider arriving early if you are driving.
While direct public transport to the summit is limited, you can take buses to nearby towns like Bourg-Saint-Pierre (Switzerland) or Saint-Rhémy-en-Bosses (Italy) and then hike or arrange local transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the hospice grounds and church is generally free. However, there are fees for staying overnight, visiting the museum (Treasures exhibit), and the St. Bernard dog museum (Barryland).
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Great St Bernard Pass website or Barryland's site for the most up-to-date information on hours and any potential closures.
Accommodation prices are considered pricey for hostel-type rooms, but include dinner and breakfast. Expect costs to be higher due to the unique location and services.
Yes, you can visit Barryland, the museum dedicated to the St. Bernard dogs, without staying at the hospice.
Information on discounts is not widely advertised, but it's always worth inquiring directly with the hospice or museum staff about potential group rates or special offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Accommodation is basic, often in shared dormitories or small private chambers, with limited shared bathroom facilities (showers and toilets). Laundry service is included.
The hospice offers dinner and breakfast. Dinner is often described as delicious and hearty, perfect after a long day. Breakfast is typically simple, with bread, jam, tea, and coffee.
Visitors can explore the historic hospice, visit the Treasures exhibit, the church, and Barryland to see the St. Bernard dogs.
Yes, families can stay in private chambers. The St. Bernard dogs are a particular highlight for children.
The atmosphere is generally welcoming and special, especially for hikers and bikepackers. It offers a unique sense of history and camaraderie.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning panoramic views of the Alps from the pass, the historic hospice architecture, and, of course, the majestic St. Bernard dogs.
Photography rules can vary. It's generally permitted in public areas and for personal use, but check for specific restrictions inside the Treasures exhibit or church.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape and architectural photography.
While you can see and photograph the dogs at Barryland, direct interaction or posed photos might be limited to ensure the dogs' well-being.
Drone usage is likely restricted due to the sensitive alpine environment and proximity to historical sites. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make sure to explore the Treasures exhibit and the church, which can be engaging for older children interested in history. The stunning alpine scenery provides ample opportunities for short walks or simply enjoying the mountain air. Remember to pack layers, as mountain weather can be unpredictable, and ensure everyone has comfortable walking shoes.
🚴 Bikepackers & Cyclists
Accommodation at the hospice is basic but functional, and the included laundry service is a significant bonus for long-distance cyclists. The historical significance of the pass and the presence of the St. Bernard dogs add an extra layer of appeal to this already iconic cycling destination. It's an experience that combines physical challenge with rich history and unique encounters.
🚶 Hikers & Trekkers
The historical context of the hospice, combined with the natural beauty of the Alps, makes this a compelling destination for anyone seeking an authentic mountain experience. Remember to pack appropriate gear for variable weather conditions and inform someone of your hiking plans. The opportunity to stay in such a historic and remote location is a highlight for many trekkers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legendary St. Bernard Dogs
Visiting Barryland offers a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent animals up close. You can observe their daily routines, learn about their training, and appreciate the dedication of the caretakers who maintain this important legacy. It’s a truly heartwarming experience that connects visitors to the hospice's centuries-old mission of aid and rescue. The breed's iconic barrel, often depicted around their necks, historically contained brandy to revive those found in the cold.
The St. Bernard dogs are more than just a tourist attraction; they are a living symbol of the hospice's enduring commitment to helping those in need. Their presence adds a special charm and historical depth to any visit, reminding everyone of the profound impact these animals have had on alpine history.
A Journey Through History at the Hospice
The Treasures exhibit within the hospice complex offers a fascinating glimpse into this rich history. It houses a collection of religious artifacts, historical documents, and art that tell the story of the hospice and its inhabitants. The adjacent church is a serene space that has been a spiritual anchor for travelers for generations, offering a moment of peace and reflection amidst the rugged alpine landscape. Attending a mass or vespers can be a particularly moving experience, connecting you to the enduring spiritual tradition of the place.
Staying overnight at the hospice is a unique experience, offering a chance to immerse yourself in its historic ambiance. While the accommodations are simple, the opportunity to sleep in such a historically significant location, surrounded by the grandeur of the Alps, is unparalleled. It’s a chance to step back in time and appreciate the resilience and hospitality that have defined the Great St Bernard Pass for over a millennium.
Navigating the Great St Bernard Pass
For cyclists and hikers, the Great St Bernard Pass presents a significant challenge and a rewarding experience. The gradients can be steep, and the weather can be unpredictable, so proper preparation is essential. Many cyclists use the pass as part of longer tours, appreciating the historical significance and the stunning alpine scenery. Hikers can find trails that offer a more intimate connection with the mountain environment, away from the main road.
When planning your journey, it's crucial to check the road status and weather forecasts. While the hospice offers accommodation, booking in advance is highly recommended due to limited availability. The pass is not just a geographical feature; it's a gateway to understanding the history of alpine travel, the resilience of human endeavor, and the enduring spirit of hospitality embodied by the hospice and its famous canine residents.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit