Camping wild near Col Malatra.

[ITALY.VALLEDAOSTA 28469] At the western foot of Col Malatra ( 2928 m, seen in background) an alpine pasture provides a perfect location for pitching a tent during the Alta Via No. 1 long distance trail, also known as the Giants' Trail, across the Italian Pennine Alps. Photo Paul Smit.

Hiker crossing snow field near Col de Vessonaz.

[ITALY.VALLEDAOSTA 28449] In early July extensive remnants of winter snow have to be crossed to reach the Col de Vessonaz (2793 m, visible on the horizon). The pass allows hikers on the Alta Via No.1 long distance trail, also known as the Giants' Trail, to travel from the Vallone di Saint-Barthélemy into the Valpelline valley. In the distance to the left Gran Paradiso is visible. Photo Mick Palarczyk & Paul Smit.

[FRANCE.ALPSNORTH 10931] ’Highest pass of the Alps.’ With 2770 m the Col de l'Iseran is the highest road pass of the Alps. (But not the highest road. That honour goes to the Col de la Bonette in the Maritime Alps. Although that pass only reaches 2715 m, an extra loop of asphalt brings you to an altitud of 2802 m). It connects the Tarentaise, in the north, with the Maurienne in the south. Photo Paul Smit.

Hiker crossing snow field near Col de Vessonaz.

[ITALY.VALLEDAOSTA 28450] In early July extensive remnants of winter snow have to be crossed to reach the Col de Vessonaz (2793 m, visible on the horizon). The pass allows hikers on the Alta Via No.1 long distance trail, also known as the Giants' Trail, to travel from the Vallone di Saint-Barthélemy into the Valpelline valley. Photo Mick Palarczyk & Paul Smit.

Cross on the Fenêtre de Tzan pass.

[ITALY.VALLEDAOSTA 28431] View from Fenêtre (= window/pass) de Tzan (2734 m) in western direction. It prepares you for the steep descent into the upper reaches of the Vallone di Saint-Barthélemy. Photo Mick Palarczyk.