12th - 15th March 2026

Price £715 including all food, accomodation and travel

Join Pride Expeditions and OutdoorLads for a 4-day winter snow shoe experience in the Swiss Alps.

This three night trip culminates in a journey to the Grand St Bernards Hospice in the Swiss Valais Alps, where we will spend a night. The hospice was built in 1050 to shelter and rescue travellers crossing the pass. Since the 17th century, the Saint-Bernard dogs were bred by the monks of the Hospice to help travellers caught in snowstorms.

Find out about the amazing history of the hospice and it’s relationship with the Saint-Bernard dogs here

No prior snowshoe experience is necessary. You will be taught how to use the snow shoes on the first day.

This trip starts at Martigny train station at 16:00. This is a direct train ride from Geneva airport which takes about 2 hours.

What is included?

• Accomodation in shared rooms

• UIMLA International Mountain Leader

• All Breakfasts and Dinners

• Entry to Barry Land to see the dogs

• Snow shoes and walking poles

• Safety equipment

What is not included?

• Flights to and from Geneva

• Travel to and from Martigny train station

• Lunches and drinks

• Insurance - you will need winter sports insurance

• Sledging or visit to Spa (optional extras 25 CHF)

Itinerary

Day 1 (12th March) Arrival and travel to Martigny for 1600

On arrival in Geneva there is a direct train from Geneva Airport to Martigny train station which takes about two hours. We will be picked up there and settle into our hotel for the night. You will be given all the equipment you need for snowshoeing.

Day 2 (13th March) Snow shoe skills journey 10km 500m of ascent and descent

We’ll complete a short journey into the Swiss wilderness in order to learn to use the snow shoes and how to move with ease. We will also cover safety aspects to ensure you stay safe during the trip.

In the afternoon you can relax with a glass of wine or visit the local swimming spa. We will overnight for a second night in the hotel near Martigny.

Day 3 (14th March) Journey to the hospice 7km with 600m ascent

Today after packing our bags for the night we will ascend to the Grand Saint Bernard Hospice. We will have lunch with the monks then continue the journey crossing into Italy before heading back to the hospice for the night. Dinner will once again be with the monks and there is optional attendance at Vespers (evening prayer).

Day 4 (15th March) Return from the hospice 7km with 600m descent

Today after breakfast and packing your bags we descend back to the valley. We will visit a Laiterie to learn about alpine cheese making and try some cheese and then go onto BarryLand. This is home to the Saint-Bernard dog, and a cuddle is welcomed.

You will be dropped off at Martigny train station at 1500 to catch a train back to Geneva or onwards.

What equipment is needed?

A comprehensive equipment list will be sent to you once you have paid a deposit. All bedding is provided.

You will need to carry anything you need for the overnight in the hospice. It is not possible to drive there. Nothing specialist is needed for this trip just general winter walking gear;

• Waterproof jacket and trousers

• Warm waterproof walking boots

• 35 litre rucksack

• Hat and wam gloves

• Sunglasses and suncream

How fit do I need to be?

We will be moving at a gentle pace when snowshoeing. Although it is a bit harder than walking it is not an extreme sport. We will be out in conditions that could be very bright and sunny or cold and snowy. It is more the ability to cope with these conditions that is important. If you would be happy going for a winter walk in any conditions in the UK mountains you will find this trip straightforward.

How to Book

To book this trip please pay a £215 deposit to Pride Expeditions. It is the paying of the deposit that reserves your place on this trip. Maximum numbers we can take are 16 people.