Testa Malinvern, Alpine summit in Isola, France

Testa Malinvern is a mountain peak in the Sea Alps with two summits rising to about 2938 meters, forming the border between France and Italy. The twin peaks have distinct shapes and structures that become clear when viewed from above.

The first recorded ascent took place in 1878 when Lieutenant Siccardi reached the top, marking the mountain's early exploration. The first winter climb happened in 1934, showing how mountaineers gradually expanded their efforts to different seasons.

The name comes from the Occitan malüvèrn, meaning "bad winter", pronounced Malinvèrn with the stress on the final syllable; it refers to the long, harsh winters of the Riofreddo valley north of the mountain. A metal cross installed in 1986 by volunteers from the parish of Bene Vagienna stands on the summit, carved with a dove and an olive branch as peace symbols.

The main route starts from Isola 2000 station with marked trails leading upward through climbing terrain to the summit. Allow several hours for the full ascent, so start early in the day and bring proper hiking boots.

The summit cross was installed in 1986 by volunteers from the parish of Bene Vagienna, and a dove and an olive branch are carved on it as peace symbols. The mountain has two separate tops about 300 metres apart, the main south summit at roughly 2,938 metres and a north-west top at 2,931 metres.