Valais

Simplon Pass route

The Simplon Pass is one of the most important passes in the Alps. It lies at 2,005 metres above sea level and connects Switzerland from Brig (Valais) to Domodossola in Italy. The pass, which is open all year round, is renowned for being one of the most beautiful Alpine passes.

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Simplon Pass route

The Simplon Pass experienced its real heyday in the 17th century when the lord of trade from Brig extended the medieval mule track and Napoleon made the transit route the first passable road in the Alps at the beginning of the 19th century.

Anniversary and highlight

The Postbus has been running over the Simplon Pass for more than 100 years. PostBus route 631Target not accessible runs daily from Brig over the Simplon Pass to Domodossola. The mountain pass is a unique experience.

Brig in the center of the Alps

Visit the Stockalperschloss castle in Brig, which is the symbol of the city of Brig and the largest profane baroque building in Switzerland. Brig Simplon Tourism organizes exciting tours. Discover exciting things about Brig’s old town and the old village of Naters on a convenient tour on the “Kleiner Simplon Express” mini train.

Continue towards the Simplon Pass 

Along the way to the Simplon Pass, you’ll enjoy a magical view of the sun terraces of Belalp, Riederalp, Rosswald and Bettmeralp. They cross the impressive Ganter Bridge, which was the bridge with the largest span in Switzerland until 2014. A unique hiking experience awaits you all year round between Brig, the Simplon Pass and Zwischbergen.

In winter, you can explore the snowshoe paradise of Rothwald (PostBus stop: Rothwald, Schutzhaus or Rothwald, Ganterwald). Snowshoeing, ski tours, winter hiking, cross-country skiing and kite skiing are among the most popular winter sports activities on the Simplon in winter.

In the summer, you can expect a huge selection of hiking trails. Don’t miss the Golden Eagle (PostBus stop: Simplon, Simplonblick). The 9-metre-high Simplon eagle symbolizes vigilance as a reminder of the “Wacht am Simplon” during the Second World War.

The Simplon Hospice of the Augustinian Canons Regular on the Simplon Pass is also worth a visit (PostBus stop Simplon Hospiz, Hospiz).

Simplon Dorf

The village of Simplon is one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland. The stone roofs are reminiscent of nearby Italy, and the village center is surrounded by historic buildings. This tranquil mountain village has a traditional bakery, an alpine dairy, hotels and restaurants.

At the Ecomuseum in Simplon Dorf, you can find out what life on the pass used to be like (PostBus stop: Simplon Dorf, Post). This includes the Via Stockalper hiking trail from Brig to Domodossola. Napoleon is said to have spent the night in the traditional Gabi (PostBus stop Gabi (Simplon).

Gondo – Zwischbergen

After the Gondo Gorge, in the border village of Gondo, you will find the historic Stockalperturm converted into a hotel and old gold mines, where you can try your luck at panning for gold (PostBus stop: Gondo, Kirche). In the summer months, the valley above Gondo is served by a PubliCar, which operates at fixed times by prior arrangement.

Benvenuti a Domodossola!

You will then reach Domodossola. The small Italian town is enchanting with picturesque old town corners and sights such as the Simplon Museum, the Chavez Monument or the Stations of the Cross on the Sacro Monte Calvario.

Important: to cross the border, you need an identity card or a passport.

  • On this route, you will also enjoy the three-tone horn, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year.

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    Activities in the Simplon region

    Via Stockalper hiking package with luggage transport

    Enjoy the 33 km long cultural and long-distance hiking trail over the Simplon Pass from the beginning of June to the middle of October in three varied and impressive stages during the day. The multi-day hike not only includes luggage transport, but also many other extras such as tours, admission and culinary surprises.
    You can find more information at stockalperweg.ch

    Rothwald / Wasenalp snowshoe paradise

    Experience an unforgettable snowshoe hike in the Rothwald / Wasenalp and enjoy the unique view over the Simplon region while having a cosy fondue. The Rothwald / Wasenalp snowshoe paradise offers many different snowshoe trails for every condition and every wish. The snowshoe trails start and end at a Postbus stop.

    You can find more information at www.rothwald.ch or www.wasenalp.ch

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