Run in the Alps with St. Bernards — a must-visit “Home of the St. Bernard” in Switzerland

▲ The national dog of Switzerland, the “St. Bernard,” with the small barrel around its neck that was used for rescue purposes in the past. (Photo /Qinqin Matterhorn Facebook groupAuthorized for use, no screenshots please)

By reporter Cai Wenjun / Comprehensive report

In addition to classic Swiss attractions such as the five iconic peaks, the Aletsch Glacier (the first glacier), and the classical city of Bern, there’s now another healing destination: the “Home of the St. Bernard.” Visitors can get up close with over 30 St. Bernards here, and even go hiking with them, watching these adorable dogs run energetically through the Alps.

▲ The Great St. Bernard Pass — the hometown of the St. Bernard. (Photo / Authorized by Qinqin Matterhorn Facebook group, no screenshots please)

Chen Duoming, Taiwan Market Representative for the Matterhorn region, said that the St. Bernard is hailed as the national dog of Switzerland. In the Middle Ages when transportation was inconvenient, the routes between Central and Southern Europe were often perilous paths where one could easily lose their life, especially during snowy winters. It was in such an environment that the St. Bernard became a heroic figure, helping to transport goods and rescue lost or stranded travelers.

▲ St. Bernards in the early years served roles in rescue and transporting goods. (Photo / Authorized by Qinqin Matterhorn Facebook group, no screenshots please)

Furthermore, in this mountainous country of Switzerland, most rescue-needed locations are found in high mountains and steep ridges. In the era when technology was undeveloped, rescue operations relied on the keen instincts of St. Bernards. Among them, the most celebrated by the Swiss is a St. Bernard named Barry, whose rescues saved the lives of over 40 people. This is also the origin of the name of the Barry Foundation at the Home of the St. Bernard in Martigny.

▲ At the Home of the St. Bernard, you can hike in the Alps with St. Bernards. (Photo / Authorized by Qinqin Matterhorn Facebook group, no screenshots please)

The Barry Foundation is home to nearly 30 St. Bernards. Visitors can not only see them up close, but if you’re a big fan of St. Bernards, Chen Duoming also recommends joining the “Hike with St. Bernards” program to enjoy the Alpine scenery together with these dogs — surely a unique experience.

Barry Foundation – Home of the St. Bernard
Opening hours: Open all year, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Address: Rue du Levant 34, CH-1920 Martigny
In addition to general visits, the Home of the St. Bernards also offers fun interactive programs such as walking and hiking with the dogs. Interested travelers can contact the Home of the St. Bernards directly: E-Mail: info@fondation-barry.ch
http://www.fondation-barry.ch/en/