The Grande Traversata delle Alpi (GTA) is a very long route that crosses the Alps from Ventimiglia to Trieste for a total of more than 100 stages, of which more than half (65) involve Piedmont.  It is a legendary route leading from the heart of the Alps to the sea: 1000 km long with a total elevation gain of 60.000 m.  An extraordinary experience in which action and contemplation blend in a kaleidoscope of culture and traditions in a breathtaking landscape.

The GTA originated in the seventies from a project to develop alpine tourism.  It has recently been integrated in the wider international Via Alpina project as Blue Route.  The Via Alpina gathers together GTA and various long-distance treks sweeping through the entire Alps range, reaching France, Switzerland, Austria, Germany and Slovenia.

The routes are marked both by the unique red and white stamps and the Via Alpina metal plates.  Each stage lasts from 5 to 8 hours at the end of which there is an accommodation facility called Posto Tappa.

GTA is a sport and cultural experience open to everybody as long as well trained and well equipped.  The route crosses from valley to valley, with stopovers at little villages where it is possible to find proofs of the alpine culture at its origins. Near the Posto Tappa is very often possible to buy local genuine produce such as cheese, ready-sliced salami and bread.  Furthermore, the route inserts itself in the wide net of local trails allowing deep exploration of different geographic areas.

Skilled trekkers may link more stages together, enjoying different panoramas and covering great distances.  Families will have a chance to live a few days in uncontaminated nature, this being an important and educational experience for younger children.  Furthermore, after each stage there is the opportunity to take a day’s rest.

The best period for trekking along the GTA is from July to September.  All Posto Tappa are then opened and, except particular weather conditions, snow is all melted.

The Posto Tappa Les Montagnards is opened all year around.  Our mountains will offer you incredible scenarios.

You may start exploring the GTA through the stages leading to Les Montagnards.  You may even plan a longer trekking by walking through the three Lanzo valleys.  This is a few days hike in the pure nature of our mountains.