Exploring the Great St Bernard Pass Road (SS27) in the Italian Alps

The Great St Bernard Pass Road (SS27) is situated in the northwestern part of Italy, within the Walliser Alpen region of the Alps mountain range. This road crosses the Alps, connecting the Italian side to the Swiss border area near the Col du Grand Saint-Bernard. The road ends near the village of Saint-Rhémy-en-Bosses, a small settlement that serves as a gateway to the pass. The elevation along the route ranges from approximately 1,506 meters (4,941 feet) to 2,473 meters (8,116 feet), with the highest point at the Col du Grand Saint-Bernard itself, which stands at 2,469 meters (8,100 feet). An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The SS27 is a mountain pass road with a length of about 20 kilometers (12.7 miles). It features an asphalt surface of high quality, rated 4.5 out of 5, providing a smooth and reliable riding experience. The road is moderately twisty, with a curviness rating of 1.84 on a scale where 3 is extremely curvy, making it engaging but manageable for riders of varying skill levels. The majority of the road (about 89%) consists of two lanes, with a small portion (around 3%) being single lane. The road width is predominantly wide (about 91%), with some sections of medium width (8%). Approximately 10% of the route passes through inhabited areas, primarily near Saint-Rhémy-en-Bosses.

Speed limits vary along the route, with maximum speeds set at 50 km/h (31 mph), 30 km/h (19 mph), and 80 km/h (50 mph) depending on the section. The road's elevation gain and alpine environment make it a rewarding ride, especially for those interested in mountain touring.

The defining feature of this route is the Col du Grand Saint-Bernard, a mountain pass with a rich history and strategic importance. The pass is well known in both motorcycling and general travel communities, often referred to as the Great St Bernard Pass Road. It is located within the Walliser Alpen, a subrange of the Alps, which is renowned for its rugged peaks and alpine landscapes. The pass itself is a key crossing point between Italy and Switzerland and has been used for centuries.

The road offers riders the opportunity to experience alpine terrain, with panoramic views and a connection to the cultural heritage of the region. The Walliser Alpen and the broader Alps mountain range provide a dramatic backdrop for the journey.

The SS27 is maintained with a high-quality asphalt surface, suitable for motorcycles throughout the riding season. However, as a high mountain pass road, it is subject to seasonal closures, typically during the winter months due to snow and adverse weather conditions. Riders should verify current road status before planning a trip.

There are no tolls or entrance fees specifically associated with this road, but conditions may change, so it is advisable to consult official Italian road information sources for updates. For more information on road tolls and fees in Italy, riders can visit the official website of the Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.

For those interested in exploring the Great St Bernard Pass Road, additional information can be found on the Col du Grand Saint-Bernard Wikipedia page and the Walliser Alpen Wikipedia page. The broader alpine context is detailed on the Alps Wikipedia page. An interactive map of the route is provided below to assist with planning your ride.