After I had already completed some stages of the GTA (Grande Traversata delle Alpi) last year and finally started the GTA again with the Great Destroyer from the beginning, it was now time to continue the tour at the point where we had left off last year. So, as planned, we continued from St Antonio, although exactly this stage to Refugio Rivetti should not actually be chosen as the beginning. But we are trained and the weather was also excellent, at least at the beginning, so this was once again an excellent tour in the Alps.
The Grande Traversata delle Alpi, or GTA, is a spectacular long-distance trekking route that winds its way through the Italian Alps. The route covers over 1000 kilometers and takes hikers through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe, including rugged mountain ranges, deep valleys, and crystal-clear alpine lakes.
The GTA was established in the 1980s and was designed to showcase the beauty and diversity of the Italian Alps. The route runs from the Mediterranean Sea in the south to the Swiss border in the north, taking hikers through the regions of Liguria, Piedmont, Valle d’Aosta, and Lombardy. The route passes through numerous national parks, including the Gran Paradiso National Park, the Stelvio National Park, and the Maritime Alps Regional Park.
The GTA is divided into 57 stages, each of which takes hikers through a different section of the Alps. The route 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. The route takes hikers through high mountain passes, steep ridges, and narrow gorges, with breathtaking views at every turn.
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 GTA is located in the heart of the Italian Alps, which is famous for its cuisine. Hikers can enjoy traditional dishes such as 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 spectacular trekking route that offers hikers the opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of the Italian Alps. The route is challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences at every turn. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a novice, the GTA is a journey that will leave a lasting impression and create memories that will last a lifetime.