Snowshoeing to the Grand St. Bernard Monastery in the Swiss Alps

Question 1

What if there is bad weather?

Answer

Whilst we do everything we can to match this advertised itinerary, your safety is our number one concern. We can always get out and about and go snowshoeing but we may not be able to go to the Hospice as it can be a potentially dangerous route in poor weather or avalanche conditions. In such a situation your guide will choose another suitable and safe route.

Question 2

What is the minimum age?

Answer

Due to the distances and ascents covered on this trip, it is geared towards adults. Therefore the minimum age for this trip is 18 years. However, those aged 16-18 years are welcome to attend in the company of a responsible adult. Please also be aware that accommodation is in mixed dormitories. Should you wish for someone younger to join the trip then please get in touch. We will deal with these requests on a case-by-case basis.

Question 3

Tell me about the sledging?

Answer

Sledging is an optional extra. It also depends on the conditions of the slope. It costs 20 CHF but is a real thrill. We get the chairlift up and then head down at speed. If that's not your thing there is a bar/cafe to wait in whilst others take the plunge. It takes about an hour up and down.

Question 4

How fit do I need to be?

Answer

This trip is very much aimed at those who have never worn snowshoes before and are looking for their first experience of walking in the snow. You'll need to be fit enough to walk in the mountains for up to 5 hours per day. If you have always wanted to visit the mountains in winter but don't want to ski this is an ideal trip for you.

Question 5

Can I leave my extra luggage somewhere?

Answer

You can leave what you do not want during the days in the accommodation.

Question 6

How easy is the train transfer?

Answer

Very easy, with trains 2 or 3 times an hour. Swiss trains are known for being efficient and this train ride offers some beautiful views along the way.

Question 7

What altitude do we trek to?

Answer

You'll hike from 1800m to 2500m. Altitude sickness is not normally an issue at this height.

Question 8

Do I need travel insurance?

Answer

Yes. We would always recommend getting travel insurance well before your trip departure date. Even if you sprain an ankle you will need a helicopter pick-up, and without insurance this will be pricey. If you need to cancel last minute, you may be able to claim on insurance for the cost of the trip.

Question 9

What should I bring?

Answer

Documents

- Passport

- Boarding pass for flights

- Money (CHF)

- Credit/Debit Card

Sleeping

- Sleeping bag liner (you can buy these from your host for 25 CHF). They are required in all Swiss budget accommodation.

- Ear Plugs

Footwear

- Trekking boots: 4 season waterproof, warm, lightweight

- Lightweight shoe's for the evening (or you can borrow hut slippers)

Clothing

Please make sure that you have non-cotton clothing for trekking.

- pair of synthetic under-top and bottom (long johns or similar)

- comfortable shirt for the evening

- hiking socks

- spare underwear

- fleece

- light down or Primaloft jacket

- waterproof jacket and trousers

- hiking trousers.

- comfortable trousers for the evening

- sun hat, warm hat and waterproof gloves

- buff or scarf

Other

- day bag: 35 - 45 litres - all your kit should fit into this bag.

- travel towel

- dry bag or liner

- water bottle: At least 2L

- sun protection: Sunglasses, sun cream and sun hat

- personal medication

- toiletries

- electronics - headtorch, travel adapter, phone and charger

Specialist equipment is included in the price of the trip (snowshoes, poles etc.)

Question 10

Where does the trip start/end?

Answer

Start: You'll meet your guide at Martigny Train station, at around 4 pm on day 1 of your itinerary. It's easily accessible from Zurich airport (3 hours) and Geneva airport (1h40), with regular services.

Question 11

What is the group size?

Answer

Our normal group size for this trip is 7-12 people. You'll make friends with like-minded people.

Question 12

Should I tip my guide?

Answer

It is traditional in mountain regions to tip the guide. It is appreciated and reflects how hard they work to make your trip a success. A suitable amount is 20-50 CHF per person. You can also review and name check those guides who have given you a particularly good experience.

Question 13

What's included?

Answer

Included

- Guide

- Accommodation

- Breakfast and dinner

- Specialist equipment (snowshoes, poles, safety equipment)

- Entry to Barryland

Excluded

- Flights

- Airport transfers

- Travel insurance

- Sledging (20 CHF extra)

- Lunches

- Visa (if applicable)

Question 14

What is the food like? Can you cater for certain diets?

Answer

The food is wholesome and of good quality. You will be served three-course dinners and buffet breakfasts. You will not go hungry. Vegetarian, vegan, lactose-free and gluten-free diets can be catered for with sufficient notice. For other diet requests or allergies, please be sure to let us know.

Question 15

What is the weather like?

Answer

It varies. On ideal days it is cold and sunny but this is a mountain pass and we can have any of the 4 seasons. So come prepared. If there are snow storms we will need to adapt the itinerary.

Question 16

I want to stay a few extra days. What else is there to do?

Answer

You'll be in the swiss mountains, so there are endless opportunities! You can visit Geneva, Montreux or Lausanne. If you want to ski or do more snowshoeing then this would be a perfect opportunity. There are also some of the world's best train trips starting near here. Your host can advise.

Question 17

What currency do I need?

Answer

Swiss Francs, CHF, available at cash points. You certainly need cash at the hospice but other places generally take bank cards.

Question 18

Do I get to/have to cuddle the dogs?

Answer

You will get to meet the dogs at Barryland. It is up to you how close you get to them and what the activities of the centre are at the time of our visit.