Rifugio Pastore walks

Another change of valley to reach the large village of Macugnaga at the foot of Monte Rosa via the Col Turlo. The wide path used is absolutely remarkable as it was built by the Italian army to hoist cannons for the defence of the area and for firing exercises.

Head towards the Alagna Valley, passing the Col d'Alen and the Lac del Corno. The final descent via Alpe Balma through wild countryside takes you directly to the Refuge Pastore, nestled in a magnificent mountain pasture at the foot of the north face of Monte Rosa.

This stage takes you through Switzerland via the Grand Col du Monte Moro, followed by a beautiful descent to Lake Mattmark. Once you reach the lake, take the bus to Saas Fée.

During this stage, at Passo di Monte Moro, you cross from Italy (Piedmont) to Switzerland (German-speaking Valais). Hike with a brief description, to be followed with the Visorando app.

This is a long stage in the shared ski area of Saint Jacques and Gressoney, where the route alternates between wide ski slopes and narrower trails.

At the exit of the hamlet of Résy (a few houses), another stage with the TMR. Hike with a brief description, to be followed with the Visorando app.

This is a short first stage that takes you almost halfway up the slope to the hamlet of Frachey, overlooking the Ayas valley.

A Tour du Cervin alternative today, visiting the north side of the colossal peak before reaching Zermatt.

The final stage is almost entirely downhill, except for a short climb to cross the Col Nord des Cimes Blanches. The descent takes place in long valleys, interspersed with very steep slopes. The arrival at the hamlets of Fury and Blanchard is a real relief after 10 days of hiking.