GTA Through the Italian Alps - A Walker's Guidebook

Guidebook to the Grande Traversata delle Alpi (The GTA) taking walkers across the western Italian Alps in a spectacular and immensely rewarding 47-day long-distance trek. The GTA traverses the Ligurian, Maritime, Cottian, Graian and Pennine Alps, heading northwards to a brilliant conclusion near the base of Monte Rosa.

Seasons

Late June to mid-September. There may be some spring snow early on, but the treks goes from south to north so this is minimised.

Centres

Starts Viozene north of Genoa, finishes near Monte Rosa. Visits no main towns but public transport to Turin then Aosta always possible to leave the route.

Difficulty

At 630km (400 miles) split into 47 stages it is a long way and passes through some tough but rewarding alpine terrain. Can be split for those with less time. A stern undertaking.

Must See

Argentera, Monte Viso, the Gran Paradiso and the south faces of the Pennine Alps. Crosses half a dozen national parks and nature reserves.

Through the Italian Alps

The GTA – The Grande Traversata delle Alpi

Author

Gillian Price

Cover

Paperback - PVC

Edition

First

Published

26 May 2005

ISBN_13

9781852844172

Availability

Published

Price £12.00

This immensely rewarding 46-day long-distance route across the western Italian Alps is an exciting proposition, taking in a remarkable kaleidoscope of traditional cultures combined with breathtaking landscapes punctuated by the landmark stone giants such as the Argentera, Monviso and Gran Paradiso. Starting a mere stone's throw from the Mediterranean, the GTA (Grande Traversata delle Alpi) curves its way high over the fertile Piedmont plain traversing the Ligurian, Maritime, Cottian, Graian and Pennine Alps, heading northwards to a brilliant conclusion near the base of Monte Rosa and its spilling glaciers. A network of hospitable high-altitude refuges alternated with village-based hostels and comfortable inns guarantee walkers memorable meals and a good night's rest. The sole requisites for potential trekkers are a taste for adventure and average fitness; no special mountaineering expertise is necessary. Excellent public transport links make multiple shorter chunks feasible to fit in with individual holiday requirements. This unforgettable alpine experience is finally available to English-speaking walkers!