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at your own pace
5 days
77 km
~15 km/day
moderate
Martigny
ends Aosta
2–12
participants
Casual+ Inns (4★)
Jul – Aug
The Via Francigena traces the historic route of Archbishop Sigeric, who traveled on foot from Canterbury to Rome over a thousand years ago. One of the most challenging parts of his journey was the crossing of the Alps, a route that is still followed by pilgrims and hikers today.
From Martigny, ancient mule paths climb steadily into the mountains toward the legendary Great St. Bernard Pass on the border between Switzerland and Italy. After crossing the pass, the trail descends into the wild and picturesque Aosta Valley, where historic irrigation channels guide the way to the charming and historic town of Aosta.
Highlights
One of the most historic alpine crossings in Europe, used by travelers and pilgrims for over 2,000 years. The dramatic mountain scenery, the famous hospice and the legendary St. Bernard dogs make this pass a highlight of the route.
You may meet the famous St. Bernard dogs near the Great St. Bernard Pass, one of the most iconic symbols of the Alps. Historically trained by monks to rescue lost travelers in the snow, these gentle giants represent the region’s remarkable mountain heritage.
The journey ends in Aosta, a charming alpine town famous for its remarkably preserved Roman monuments. Surrounded by dramatic peaks, the town offers a unique blend of Italian culture, history and mountain atmosphere.
7 Days from $1,395
Free cancellation · Up to 60 days before group departure
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Martigny | Martigny Boutique Hôtel (4-star) | - | - | |
| 02 | Orsières | Hôtel Terminus | B | 22 km / 14 mi | hiking |
| 03 | Bourg-Saint-Pierre | Au Bivouac de Napoléon | B | 14 km / 9 mi | hiking |
| 04 | Col du Grand-St-Bernard | Hospice du Grand-Saint-Bernard | B | 12 km / 7 mi | hiking |
| 05 | Étroubles | Hotel Beau Sejour | B | 13 km / 8 mi | hiking |
| 06 | Aosta | HB Aosta Hotel | B | 16 km / 10 mi | hiking |
| 07 | Departure | - | B | - |
Meals: B = Breakfast · L = Lunch · D = Dinner
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives.
Individual arrival in Martigny, a charming alpine town located in the canton of Valais in Switzerland. Nestled at the junction of important Alpine routes, Martigny has long served as a gateway for travellers crossing the Alps. Take time to explore the old town, Roman ruins, and scenic surroundings before preparing for the start of your hiking journey along the historic Via Francigena.
Meals: -
Accommodation: Martigny Boutique Hôtel (4-star)
Your journey begins with a short train ride to Martigny followed by the first hiking stage towards the Great St. Bernard Pass. From Martigny, a steep trail climbs through vineyards and forests before crossing the narrow Les Trappistes Pass.
The route then descends to the medieval village of Sembrancher, where the Dranse rivers meet. From here, the path follows the historic Napoleon Route (Napoleon-Weg) leading gradually through scenic alpine landscapes to Orsières, a traditional mountain village and an important stop for pilgrims.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 22 km / 14 mi
Accommodation: Hôtel Terminus
Today’s stage follows the historic pilgrimage path deeper into the Alps. The trail winds through forests and alpine meadows, sometimes west and sometimes east of the river.
Along the way, you will pass the charming village of Liddes and the small Notre-Dame-de-Lorette Chapel, a peaceful landmark on the route. The day ends in Bourg-Saint-Pierre, the last Swiss village before the Great St. Bernard Pass and an important historical stopping point for travellers and pilgrims.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 14 km / 9 mi
Accommodation: Au Bivouac de Napoléon
This stage is one of the most symbolic parts of the Via Francigena. The trail climbs steadily toward the legendary Great St. Bernard Pass, a route used for over 2,000 years by merchants, pilgrims, soldiers, and travellers crossing the Alps.
Along the way, several archaeological remains and historical landmarks can be seen, particularly around L’Hospitalet and the Barasson Pass. At the top of the pass stands the famous hospice founded by monks, historically known for their rescue dogs.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7 mi
Accommodation: Hospice du Grand-Saint-Bernard
After crossing the pass, the route enters Italy and begins a scenic descent into the Aosta Valley. A traditional pilgrim’s trail leads down the mountainside, offering impressive alpine views. The path passes through the small village of Saint-Rhémy-en-Bosses, known for its local cuisine and mountain charm. Soon the picturesque villages of Étroubles and Échevennoz come into sight. Étroubles, often called an open-air museum, features charming stone houses and art installations along its streets.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Beau Sejour
Today’s route follows the ancient irrigation channels known as “Rus”, which historically carried water from the mountains to fields in the valley. These canals create pleasant and mostly flat walking sections, though some steeper descents also occur. The journey ends in Aosta, a historic Roman town founded in 25 BC. Surrounded by impressive alpine peaks, Aosta is famous for its well-preserved Roman monuments, lively squares, and unique blend of Italian and alpine culture.
Meals: B
Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 mi
Accommodation: HB Aosta Hotel
After breakfast, your hiking adventure concludes in Aosta. Individual departure or the possibility to extend your stay. You may take time to explore the town’s remarkable Roman heritage, including the ancient city gates, theatre, and cathedral. Alternatively, continue your journey further along the Via Francigena or enjoy additional days discovering the breathtaking landscapes of the Aosta Valley.
Meals: B
Lodging
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
Meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
· Accomodation as mentioned incl. breakfast · Daily luggage transfer (1 piece of luggage per person, max. 20 kg) · Subsidy for arrival by train · Pilger pass · Carefully elaborated route description · Digital travel documents incl. navigation app
Airport Pickup
We recommend to book directly from airport.
Airport Drop
We recommend to book directly from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Martigny
Aosta
Geneva Airport (GVA)
Geneva Airport (GVA)
**Arrival **
by public transport to Martigny.
** Departure**
by Flixbus to Geneva.
The weather along the Via Francigena route from Martigny in Switzerland to Aosta in Italy varies due to the large change in altitude, from valley towns to the high alpine Great St. Bernard Pass at 2,469 m.
In the valleys, summer temperatures usually range between 15°C and 25°C (59°F–77°F), creating pleasant hiking conditions, while higher elevations are much cooler, often between 0°C and 10°C (32°F–50°F).
The best months to hike this route are July and August when the trails are generally snow-free and the weather is most stable.
June and September are also good months, offering temperatures around 12°C to 22°C (54°F–72°F) and beautiful alpine scenery with fewer crowds.
May and October are considered mixed months because weather can be unpredictable, with possible snow on higher passes and cooler temperatures around 8°C to 16°C (46°F–61°F).
From November to April it is the off season, as heavy snowfall and temperatures often below 0°C (32°F) make the high mountain sections difficult or inaccessible for hiking.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Offseason
May
Mixed
June
Good
July
Best
August
Best
September
Good
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Packing wisely ensures comfort and safety on your hiking adventure. This list covers essential hiking gear, clothing, and travel items to help you handle varied terrain and weather conditions.
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one daypack. Mark your luggage clearly with your name, address, and phone number.
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Check for updates close to departure to avoid last-minute issues.
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend purchasing adequate travel insurance to protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance, including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses, and personal liability, travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact through our reservation form. If you cannot provide proof, you'll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Keep your emergency contact number and policy number accessible while traveling.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly. We recommend comparing policies and choosing the one that best fits your needs. A useful place to start is Insured Nomads.
