High Route 1 — Stage 16: Rifugio Frassati → Rifugio Bonatti via Col Malatrà

Stage sixteen is the most alpine stretch of the entire Alta Via 1: it climbs to Col Malatrà at 2925 metres — the highest point of the whole route — and descends into Val Ferret to Rifugio Walter Bonatti. From Rifugio Frassati the path rises through the Merdeux basin on progressively rockier and more open terrain, with sections of compact scree demanding careful footwork. The cross at Col Malatrà is a long-awaited landmark: at this altitude the panorama is absolute, with Mont Blanc rising in full majesty to the northwest, Grand Combin to the east and the Gran Paradiso summits on the distant horizon. The descent toward Val Ferret is long and occasionally slippery — dew-wet grass early in the morning — so staying on the marked trail is essential. Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2025 m) is the most celebrated overnight stop on the entire Alta Via 1, made famous through its proximity to the Tour du Mont Blanc, offering an unrivalled view of Mont Blanc. Reservations weeks in advance are indispensable during peak season.

Along the route: from Rifugio Pier Giorgio Frassati (2540 m), the path passes Col Malatrà (2925 m) — Highest point on entire AV1, panoramic cross, to Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2025 m). Along the way you reach the Bonatti refuge, a useful base. The skyline is dominated by Monte Bianco (4808 m), Grandes Jorasses (4208 m).