The Cabane du Vélan from Bourg-Saint-Pierre

Car park next to the "Joe Bar" in Bourg-Saint-Pierre.

(S) Head south on the small paved road that descends towards the village centre. Do not go under the road bridge, but turn left at the transformer (yellow arrow). Cross the road that goes uphill and follow the signs for Cordonna, Vélan and Valsorey (yellow diamond).

(1) Cross the road and continue on the path opposite. Go uphill and join the road higher up (make a note of where the path starts for the return journey).

(2) Cross the road and take the track opposite. Climb gradually, heading south-east.

(3) Just before reaching Cordonna, at the sign indicating 1,834 m, take the path on the left that climbs towards Vélan and Valsorey. From there, follow the white-red-white markings of the Swiss mountain trails. The trail climbs, initially heading southeast, then east. Cross a few streams and you will come to a sign indicating that in case of heavy rain, you should cross to the left bank.

(4) There are two options here:
- If there is no heavy rain, continue on the right bank and follow the stream on your right (follow the route on the map).
- In case of heavy rain, cross the stream and follow a path that climbs up a spur. Descend to cross the stream again and rejoin the main path.

(5) At the Chalet d'Amont junction, turn right towards Vélan. Once you have crossed the small bridge over the stream, follow the white-red-white trail, generally heading south.

(6) After the memorial plaque to those who died in the avalanche of 21 March 1971, cross a stream over a small bridge. The trail, marked with animal figurines, then winds its way up a series of rocky steps.

(7) When you reach the ridge, turn right. The trail is no longer as steep. Leave the ruins of the old refuge on your right. Continue to the Cabane du Vélan a little higher up (E).

To get to the start, stay on the road that goes around Bourg-Saint-Pierre and climbs up to the Grand Saint-Bernard.
Park on the left in the car park just after the "Joe Bar"

As with all high-altitude mountain huts, book your accommodation and, if necessary, the number of evening meals and breakfasts. Bring cash (Swiss francs) as only cash payments are accepted (no cards). There is no drinking water at the refuge, only bottles sold by the wardens.
All information can be found at: Cabane du Vélan

A herd of ibex grazes below the refuge in the early evening, providing a great photo opportunity.