High Route 1 — Stage 7: Rifugio Vieux Crest → Rifugio Grand Tournalin

Stage seven is one of the most varied on the entire Alta Via 1: leaving Rifugio Vieux Crest, the trail descends into the Résy valley before climbing steadily across the ridges above Champoluc, with the Matterhorn's profile sharpening on the horizon as altitude increases. The Ayas valley unfolds across a landscape of high-altitude summer farms where dry-stone buildings — barns, stalls, tabià shelters — bear witness to a centuries-old pastoral economy that remains active today. The path crosses high pastures where Valdostana cattle graze freely through summer, skirts the hamlet of Frachey and climbs toward Col Roisetta (2679 m), one of the widest viewpoints of the stage. The final descent and reascent lead to Rifugio Grand Tournalin (2535 m), a classic AV1 overnight stop with a terrace offering direct views of the Matterhorn. The EE rating reflects sustained elevation gain and scree sections demanding careful footwork rather than any technical passage. The hut provides half-board accommodation: reservations are strongly advised in July and August when AV1 hiker traffic peaks.

Along the route: from Rifugio Vieux Crest (2417 m), the path passes Col Roisetta (2679 m) — High point, wide panorama over Ayas and Matterhorn, to Rifugio Grand Tournalin (2535 m). Along the way you reach the Grand Tournalin refuge, a useful base. The skyline is dominated by Cervino (4478 m), Becca di Nona (3142 m), Dent d'Hérens (4177 m).