Finally, the fourth stage led from Oropa to Refugio Coda at an altitude of about 2300 meters. The path is actually quite strenuous and goes more or less always uphill past a cable car station and over a pass. Subsequently, the path often goes over large boulders and is quite long, as well as in the later course at least in bad weather crash-prone dangerous. Overall, the path is really long, but with a little luck you will be rewarded by an incredible view from the hut located at 2300 m.
The Grande Traversata delle Alpi, or GTA for short, is a long-distance trekking route that stretches across the entire length of the Italian Alps, covering a distance of more than 1,000 kilometers. The route is divided into 57 stages, each of which takes hikers through a different section of the Alps, offering breathtaking views of the region’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty.
The GTA was established in the 1980s, with the aim of showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Italian Alps. The route begins in the Ligurian Sea in the south, at the border with France, and crosses over to the Swiss border in the north, passing through four regions of Italy: Liguria, Piedmont, Valle d’Aosta, and Lombardy. Along the way, hikers encounter stunning mountain ranges, deep valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages, each with its own unique character and history.
The GTA is well-marked, and hikers can choose to walk the entire route or select specific sections that appeal to them. The route is varied and challenging, with sections that require good physical fitness and experience in hiking and mountaineering. Some of the most spectacular sections of the GTA include the Gran Paradiso National Park, the Stelvio National Park, and the Maritime Alps Regional Park.
The GTA offers a range of accommodation options for hikers, including mountain huts, guesthouses, and hotels. The mountain huts are basic but comfortable, with dormitory-style accommodation and communal areas for cooking and socializing. The guesthouses and hotels offer more comfortable accommodation, with private rooms and en-suite facilities.
The Italian Alps are famous for their cuisine, and hikers on the GTA can enjoy a range of traditional dishes, including polenta, risotto, and pasta, as well as regional specialties such as fontina cheese and cured meats. The mountain huts and guesthouses also offer a range of local wines and beers to accompany meals.
The Grande Traversata delle Alpi is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for hikers, offering a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking beauty of the Italian Alps. The route is challenging, but the rewards are well worth the effort, with unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a novice, the GTA is a journey that will take you on a remarkable adventure through some of the most stunning landscapes in Europe.