Читать книгу Through the Italian Alps. The GTA - The Grande Traversata delle Alpi онлайн

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When to Go

As is the rule throughout the Alps the midsummer months from late June to mid-September are ideal for this trek. From early July the highest passes will normally be snow-free and – most importantly – all accommodation will be open. Typical summer conditions will enable you to walk in a T-shirt, shorts and sunhat, the heat tempered by occasional downpours and storms; but ‘once-in-a-blue-moon’ dumps of snow – even in August – should not be discounted. The ranges on the very edge of the Piedmont plain are sometimes enshrouded in insidious mist that rises from the lower altitudes where it forms in midsummer. Visibility is obviously spoilt and vigilance essential to keep on the right track. (Bottom line: be prepared for everything!) The onset of autumn can bring gloriously clear skies (if chilly air), a wonderful time for those used to bivouacking under the stars when needs be. Late spring is also suitable for self-sufficient experienced walkers prepared to deal with substantial snow cover. Many posto tappa hostels adjoining a restaurant or hotel are open all year round, and make perfect bases for day excursions out of season.