Gressoney-La-Trinité - Testa Grigia (Groabhopt)

A demanding, rewarding climb to the Testa Grigia (Groabhopt, 3,315 m), one of the highest panoramic summits reachable on foot from Gressoney. From the main village you ascend the long valley to the last pastures, then the ground turns mineral among scree and rocky steps on the final stretch (EEA: sure feet and, early season, care on snowfields). From the top the panorama is full-circle and grand: the whole south face of Monte Rosa, from the Lyskamm to the Punta Gnifetti with the Margherita hut, and the Pennine Alps as far as the eye can see. A long outing, for a dawn start and settled weather. High in the valley, in a panoramic spot, stands the Ulrich Lateltin bivouac, a useful shelter and landmark before the summit stretch.

Along the way — you move in the Walser valley of Gressoney, at the foot of the Aosta-Valley side of Monte Rosa. High up you enter the world of glaciers and scree, where the air is thin and the views open onto the 4000ers. It has equipped sections: a via-ferrata kit and experience are needed.