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Part I: The Ligurian and Maritime Alps

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Route Summary

Appendix I: Tourist Information

Appendix II: Main Peaks along the GTA

Appendix III: Italian–English Glossary

Appendix IV: Further Reading

En route to Passo di Rocca Brancia, backed by the Maritime Alps (Stage 12)

INTRODUCTION

The Gta Trek

Clocking in with approximately 633km (393 miles) distance, 44,000m in ascent (and the same in descent), a low of 295m and a high of 2804m above sea level, and crossing 62 passes, the Grande Traversata delle Alpi entails a full 47 days on the trail, taking 248hr 40min. Striking out a mere stone’s throw from the Italian and French Riviera on the Mediterranean coast, it embarks on a remarkable journey across one third of Italy’s alpine arc, the western sector. Mighty stone giants line the way, monumental landmarks that take turns supervising breathtaking backgrounds on what is probably Italy’s most rewarding long-distance walking route. Arduous mountain passes where the eye gazes over boundless horizons of rugged rock and snowscapes are encountered on a daily basis. Following on are emerald meadows spread with glorious wildflowers in peaceful val eys where age-old pastoral activities are still practised, part of a traditional way of life in far-flung hamlets. One of the many beauties of the GTA is that it drops into inhabited settlements on an almost daily basis, giving walkers a privileged look into alpine communities where ageing farmers still don cloth caps and cords, their womenfolk often clad in timeless black.