Heaven on Earth: many would give Switzerland this definition. High peaks puncturing the bluest of skies, mountain villages as pretty as a picture, a spectacular nature that is fiercely and carefully protected, great food and anything an outdoor lover may possibly ask for. Switzerland is very close to Italy – but it seems to be a fairytale country, something straight out of a dream.

Via Francigena passes through Switzerland in its last section before entering Italy through the St. Bernard Pass, in the Aosta Valley region; the slow and steady climb towards the Pass has been mentioned by our travellers as one of the most echanting hikes of their life "