Allein - Mont Saron

From the Chef-lieu of Allein (1248 m), the heart of this village in the Gran San Bernardo valley, trail no. 24 climbs steadily toward Mont Saron (2682 m), the landmark mountain that divides the Valpelline to the east from the Gran San Bernardo valley to the west. The route leaves the village behind the church, rising first through the hamlets of Ville and Bruson across meadows and mixed fir and larch forest. From the Bruson plateau, a farm track leads to Alpe Bossolaz, where the path re-enters thinning woodland before reaching the Fontaines alp and Alpe Parc. Beyond the pastures, open alpine grassland dominates: the trail gains height on grassy slopes, passes a spring at Fontanin, then traverses obliquely toward the opposite ridge. The final section follows the summit ridge to the top. The 1434 m ascent over 7.5 km makes this a demanding outing, requiring good fitness and sturdy footwear.

Along the way — you move on the flanks of Mont Vélan and the Grand Combin, along the historic routes of the Great St Bernard pass. You reach high-altitude lakes, panoramic passes and scree frequented by marmots and ibex. It calls for a fit hiker’s pace and proper footwear.