Another nice riding route is over the San Bernardino Pass. It is a high mountain pass in the Swiss Alps (6,775 ft [2,065 m]), connecting the Hinterrhein and the Mesolcina (Misox) valleys between Thusis (Graubünden) and Bellinzona (Ticino).

It is a challenging road and a true test of your vehicle and your stamina because the road abounds in twists and turns. The San Bernardino Pass offers a great amount of variety, and the road is surprisingly wide on the ascent from the south, where initially it passes through several small villages. At the summit you’ll find a small lake with deep blue water and a hospice.

The village of San Bernardino, is a popular year-round resort. A tunnel 4 mi (6 km) long beneath the pass was opened in 1967, making travel through the region much easier. The pass was named for St. Bernardino of Siena, who preached in the area early in the 15th century.

How many kilometres is it / How long does it take to ride it?
The Swiss section of the pass road begins in French-speaking Martigny and ends in Italian-speaking San Bernardino is approximately 50 km long.

Are there any accommodation or camping options along the way?
You can find some motorbike friendly accommodations in Mesocco town. There is a campsite in Zernez village, the gateway to the Swiss National Park that can be an alternative camping option.

Interesting sights on the route?
The pass crosses idyllic landscapes with a mysterious character, dotted with tiny water mirrors and glacial striations whilst passing the glorious lake Moesola. Near the crest of the pass lies the holiday resort San Bernardino. In Summer, there are numerous footpaths across the bleak mountain scenery around San Bernardino, including a themed walk about the natural, cultural and historic features of the region. And in the winter, San Bernardino turns into a paradise for snow sports.

What is the best time of year to travel the route?
The San Bernardino Pass is only open in summer, but it can be closed anytime when the access is not cleared of snow.

Is the San Bernardino Pass ever closed over winter?
The pass is closed during winter (December – April) thus you can take the tunnel (open all year long) as an alternate road.

Where are people able to get fuel when they are riding the route?
If you do plan to drive on the alpine passes make sure your car is in excellent condition and that you have enough petrol. The nearest petrol station is SOCAR in Mesocco.

Photo credit: Klaus Nahr / CC BY

Photo credit: Noel Reynolds / CC BY

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San Bernardino Pass

San Bernardino Pass

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