Bivio strada sterrata per Jovençan - Col Citrin

A short but rewarding climb to a panoramic pass between the Valdigne and the inner valleys of the Great St Bernard. The route starts from a junction on a dirt road (1855 m), already in alpine-pasture country, and rises at a steady gradient across the grassy slopes typical of this altitude band, where pastures take over from the last conifers. The modest elevation gain (+640 m) and short distance make it a half-day outing, though it still calls for the steady pace of a high-mountain ascent. At the Col Citrin (2487 m), the watershed between the Citrin basin and the Vertosan valley, a broad panorama opens onto the peaks ringing the head of the valley: Mont Velan, Mont Gelé and the Grand Combin group stand out in particular. Difficulty E, 4.9 km.

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.