The Valdostan Graian Alps include panoramic ridges such as Mont Mars, Mont Nery and Grand Tournalin, crossed by Alta Via 1 between Ayas, Gressoney and Valtournenche. Mixed limestone-crystalline geology, active alpine pastures and Walser villages define among the region's most authentic human landscapes.
At a glance
- Alta Via 1 between Ayas and Valtournenche
- Mont Mars reserve and glacial lakes
- Grand Tournalin: balcony over the Matterhorn
3D view of the massif
Interactive map with MapTiler terrain. Rotate and tilt to explore the mountain group.
Geology
Limestone and gneiss alternate along ridges between Ayas and Gressoney. Mont Mars nature reserve protects alpine wetlands, bogs and rare species habitat. Moraines and glacial lakes (Barma, Mars) document the last glaciation.
History and alpine culture
Ayas and Gressoney preserve Walser architecture and Titsch traditions. Mont Mars is linked to devotions and alpine processions. Grand Tournalin is a historic Alta Via 1 destination with Matterhorn views.
Trails and routes
Alta Via 1 crosses Mont Mars, Barma lakes, Colle di Nana and Grand Tournalin in consecutive stages between Coda, Barma and Vieux Crest huts. Landscape of active pastures and marmots.
All summits
Grand Tournalin
3379m
Natural viewpoint between Ayas Valley and Valtournenche, Alta Via 1 stage. 360° panorama over Rosa, Matterhorn and Mont Blanc.
Becca di Nona
3142m
Summit above Cogne, cited on Alta Via 2 stages. Limestone-dolomite rocks and alpine meadows rich in ibex.
Mont Nery
3075m
Panoramic ridge above Gressoney and Lake Gover, visible from several AV1 stages. Mixed limestone-crystalline geology.
Mont Barbeston
2818m
Ridge above Saint-Vincent and lower Aosta Valley, visible from Alta Via 1 stages. Limestone-dolomite bedrock and terraced alpine meadows.
Mont Mars
2610m
Mountain above Champoluc and Ayas Valley, cited on early Alta Via 1 stages. Views over Monte Rosa and the Walser valleys.
Summit gallery