Via Francigena: from the Great St Bernard Pass

Make your own way to the first hotel on the St Bernard Pass on the border with Switzerland. Located high in the Swiss Alps, the area is rich in history. The hospice here was a shelter founded by Augustinian monks in the Middle Ages, and their hospitality towards pilgrims is legendary. The St Bernard dog was bred by the monks, initially to carry loads and later as an avalanche search dog. Overnight in a hotel on the Italian side of the pass.

Before setting out this morning, make time to visit the Hospice Museum. From the San Bernardo Pass you commence your walk towards Etroubles along the official Via Francigena route. You'll pass through mountain villages and enjoy evocative views. Some sections today are a bit steep, but alternative options are available. Overnight in Etroubles, a lovely village which was once the winter quarters of Roman soldiers.

Walking: 13.5km/8.5mi

Today's walk promises a deep experience along the mountains, crossing meadows and pinewoods, where pilgrim's worshipped relics of St Ursus and St Gratus (now the patron saints of the Aosta valley). You'll pass ruins and ancient chapels and follow the stream "Ru Neuf". It's possible to skip the last descent of the day by taking a bus through the village of Gignod. Overnight in Aosta, the largest town in the valley and full of Roman monuments and modern services.

Walking: 15.5km/9.5mi

The Via Francigena winds through castles and vineyards today. You'll pass the ancient castle of Quart, with its chapel dedicated to the local saint, Emerico. Along the way you will see semi-spherical engravings made in the rock by prehistoric people whose purpose today is unknown. This afternoon you'll arrive in Nus, your destination for the day, where you can relax and sample the local wine.

Walking: 16km/9.9mi

Today you will follow the Rus, ancient aqueducts which are still used to water the crops on the mountainsides of the Valle d'Aosta. As you walk between vineyards we recommend stopping at the Crotta de Vegneron at Chambave. This wine collective celebrates and produces the greatest wines of the region. The walk continues to Saint Vincent, where you will stay overnight.

Walking: 17km/10.5mi

From St Vincent you will continue along the left side of the valley and pass the ruins of the castle Saint Germain with its Mezzogiorno tower, once a formidable defence tower built between the 11th-12th century by the De Mongioveto family. From here you will walk on a short section of the ancient Strada Delle Gallie, before the route winds up the side of the mountain to Verres. If you enjoy castles we recommend taking a detour and visiting Issogne. Overnight in Verres.

Walking: 16.5km/10.2mi

During today's walk you'll feel as though you've stepped back in time. In Arnad feel just like a medieval pilgrim as you walk through the nave of San Martino Church, before crossing the ancient Enchallod bridge. You'll even walk on a perfectly preserved Roman road where you can look for the tracks of Roman carriages. If you prefer more recent history you can visit the fort at Bard. This afternoon you'll arrive at Pont Saint Martin, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views from town.

Walking: 13km/8mi

The alpine scenery of previous days gives way to the gentle hills of Piedmont. Today's walk to Ivrea will lead you through charming villages and beautiful natural sections. Arriving in Ivrea you will be delighted by the old town centre with its impressive castle and the tall tower of Santo Stefano. Be sure to take a walk through the open-air museum of modern architecture. We also recommend trying the local Novecento cake, a delicious chocolate cake whose recipe is closely guarded by the local pastry makers.

Walking: 21km/13mi

The trip concludes this morning after breakfast. Please ask for our rates if you want to stay an extra night, or you can continue along the Francigena Way to Pavia.