Lausanne to Aosta: Crossing the Alps on the Via Francigena,
August 4 - August 13, 2026

Overview

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! THE DATES ARE SET, AND THIS IS A PRELIMINARY POSTING WHILE WE CALCULATE TRIP PRICING.

The Lausanne to Aosta section of the Via Francigena is one of Europe’s most iconic long-distance walks, crossing the mighty Alps at the Great St Bernard Pass. Beginning beside Lake Geneva in Lausanne, this route leads through vineyard-lined slopes, medieval towns, and deep river valleys before ascending into high Alpine landscapes. It is widely considered the most challenging and breathtaking stretch of the entire Via Francigena.

Our 2026 guided tour is timed for August, ensuring snow-free passage across the pass. The walk begins along the shores of Lake Geneva, where Lausanne and Vevey reflect Switzerland’s blend of cosmopolitan culture and natural beauty. From there, the path enters the Rhône Valley, with stops at Aigle and St. Maurice—home to one of Europe’s oldest monasteries. The route gradually narrows as cliffs rise and waterfalls tumble, leading pilgrims into the quieter mountain towns of Martigny and Orsières.

From Orsières, the climb steepens, moving beyond forests to Bourg-St-Pierre, a small Alpine settlement above the tree line. The highlight of the journey is the ascent to the Great St Bernard Pass (Col San Bernardo), where snow-capped peaks and open skies frame the ancient hospice founded by St. Bernard of Menthon in the 11th century. Pilgrims have crossed here for over a thousand years, welcomed by the Augustinian monks who still offer hospitality today.

From the pass, the trail descends into Italy’s Aosta Valley, trading stark mountain ridges for alpine meadows, Roman ruins, and the cultural vibrancy of Aosta. With its Roman theater, medieval churches, and Italian charm, Aosta provides a fitting conclusion to this unforgettable crossing.

This pilgrimage is fully supported with luggage transfers, simple but comfortable pilgrim accommodations, and experienced guides who know the terrain and history. Each stage blends physical challenge with moments of awe—castles perched on cliffs, rushing rivers, quiet chapels, and open Alpine vistas. The Lausanne to Aosta trek offers not just a crossing of mountains, but a transformative journey in landscapes that embody the drama, beauty, and spirit of the Via Francigena.