One of the highest Cycling Cols in the Alps at 2,469 metres. This pass has been used for almost 3,000 years to cross the Alps. Julius Caesar crossed with an army in 57 BC. Today, along the route are signs with drawings commemorating Napoleon’s crossing with 46,000 soldiers in 1800. In the 900’s Saint Bernard of Menthon opened a Hospice to provide a safe haven for travelers – the hospice is still operating today.