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GR20 – A Tough But Amazing Trail In Corsica

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Europe , France , Hikes

GR20-Corsica-France-MountainIQ-Best-Hikes-in-Europe

The GR20 is a beautiful long-distance hike across the French island of Corsica.

It is considered the toughest of long-distance trails in Europe as well as one of the hardest hikes in the world . The 112-mile (180km) trail traverses the Mediterranean island from north to south, beginning in Calenzana and ending in Conca.

This guide will provide you with everything you need to know before embarking on your journey.

GR20 Trail Overview

The trail consists of two parts;

The difficult rocky northern part , which begins in Calenzana and ends in Vizzavona. On this section you'll have to tackle constant steep ascents and plunging descents.

The Southern part , which spans from Vizzavona to Conca, is the easier leg of the trail, but not as spectacular as the northern part. You can choose to do either of the two parts or complete the entire hike from Calenzana to Conca.

You can do the trail in either direction, but it is most often done from north to south. If you are looking to avoid the crowds it is suggested that you hike northwards.

The trail is separated into 16 sections and winds its way along the jagged granite spine of Corsica’s mountainous center.

The terrain is rugged, but the trails are well marked with red and white rectangles on rocks, boulders and trees.

Although the trail is well-marked it is still highly recommended that you make use of a map to avoid getting lost.

The amount of time needed to complete the trail can vary considerably from hiker to hiker, but on average it should take hikers between 11-16 days.

When planning your trip, be sure to factor in an extra day or two in case of inclement weather. You may also want to consider a few extra days to enjoy the rich culture and history of the various villages as well as spend time at the beautiful beaches.

Mountain huts known as refuges offer basic accommodation along the route as well as the option to purchase food and drink. These refuges generally consist of one large dormitory that sleeps between 25-50 people.

You may also have the option to sleep in a tent near one of the refuges, this option is also a bit cheaper than staying in the actual refuge. It is recommended that you pack a tent in case any of the refuges are booked so you have a place to sleep.

Wild camping is prohibited so you will need to make sure you set up camp in the vicinity of a refuge. There are also private lodgings along the trail and although they are more comfortable they will also be more expensive.

It is recommended that you visit in late June and early September when most of the refuges are open, the weather is not so hot, and the trails are not so crowded.

Avoid hiking in July and August as this is the most popular time and the trail will be crowded.

GR20 Quick Facts

  • The GR20 is one of the longest and toughest long-distance hikes in Europe.
  • Length: The hike spans north to south across Corsica and is 112-miles (180km) long. The total ascent is around 10,600m.
  • The GR20 is considered very tough. This hike should not be taken lightly, and it is a significant physical challenge, especially considering you will be carrying a heavy backpack. The hike is steep and strenuous.
  • It is recommended that you embark on the hike in late June or early September. The number of days needed to complete the hike varies greatly from hiker to hiker.
  • No permit is needed to hike the GR20.
  • There are mountain huts (refuges) that are owned by the national park. You also have the option to camp near the refuges or stay in privately owned hotels.

Highlights Of The GR20 Trail

  • Cirque de la Solitude: This is a steep and challenging part of the trail, you will encounter this obstacle in the 4th section. Hikers will have to climb with chains that are bolted to the rockface.
  • Lac de Nino: This is a beautiful glacial lake in the middle of grassy meadows. This can be found in the 6th section.
  • Lac de Melo and Lac de Capitello: These are two glacial lakes surrounded by rugged rocks in the 8th section.
  • Monte d’Oro: This is the 12th highest summit of Corsica located in the 9th section.
  • Monta Incudine: The highest mountain of Souther Corsica. It provides great vistas of Plateau de Coscione and can be found in the 13th section of the trail.
  • Aiguilles de Bavella: These are spectacular cliffs you will encounter in the 14th stage.

Typical GR20 Itinerary

If you choose to do one section per day, the hike will take you 16 days, weather permitting. You can either do the trail from north to south (as per the itinerary) or south to north.

First stage: Calenzana to Ortu u Piobbu

  • 12km/7.5-miles.
  • 1550m ascent.
  • 235m descent.
  • 7 hours walking time.

Second stage: Ortu u Piobbu to Carrozzu

  • 8km/5-miles.
  • 750m ascent.
  • 1050m descent.
  • 6 hours 30 minutes walking time.

Third stage: Carrozzu to Haut Asco

  • 6km/3.75-miles.
  • 860m asent.
  • 710m descent.
  • 5 hours 30 minutes walking time.

Fourth stage: Haut Asco to Vallone

  • 9km/5.5-miles.
  • 1250m ascent.
  • 1230 descent.
  • 9 hours 30 minutes walking time.

Fifth stage: Vallone to Ciottulu di Mori

  • 15km/9.5-miles.
  • 850m ascent.
  • 870m descent.
  • 6 hours walking time.

Sixth stage: Ciottulu di Mori to Manganu

  • 25km/15.5-miles.
  • 650m ascent.
  • 9 hours walking time.

Seventh stage: Manganu to Petra Piana

  • 17km/ 10.5-miles.
  • 670m ascent.
  • 475m descent.

Eighth stage: Petra Piana to L’Onda

  • 390m ascent.
  • 800m descent.
  • 4 hours walking time.

Ninth stage: L’Onda to Vizzavona

  • 13km/8-miles.
  • 990m ascent.
  • 1500m descent.
  • 7 hours 30 minutes walking time.

Tenth stage: Vizzavona to Capanelle

  • 16km/10-miles.
  • 1000m ascent.
  • 335m descent.

Eleventh stage: Capanelle to Col de Verde

  • 14km/8.75-miles.
  • 320m ascent.
  • 620m descent.
  • 4 hours 30 minutes walking time.

Twelfth stage: Col de Verde to Usciolu

  • 1290 ascent.
  • 830m descent.

Thirteenth stage: Usciolu to Crocce

  • 340m ascent.
  • 640m descent.

Fourteenth stage: Crocce to Asinau

  • 665m ascent.
  • 545m descent.

Fifteenth stage: Asinau to Bavella

  • 550m ascent.
  • 86m descent.
  • 4 hours 15 minutes walking time.

Sixteenth stage: Bavella to Conca

  • 19km/11.8-miles.
  • 700m ascent.
  • 1670m descent.
  • 7 hours walking time.  

GR20 Corsica France

Photo by Irena Tsvetanova

GR20 Map and Guidebook

Trekking the GR20 Corsica: The High Level Route: Guidebook and map booklet

This guidebook provides low and high-level alternatives, extra mountain climbs and everything you need to know about this tough route including what to bring, maps and how to trek.

This guidebook promises to provide you with all the information you could possibly need when embarking on this hike.

With this guidebook you will feel prepared and confident to embark on your journey.

Video Overview

In this video by Friendly Hiker, you can see that the GR20 is truly one of the most difficult hiking trails in Europe. Follow these six hikers day by day on their epic journey through an impressive mountain scenery.

GR20 Hike FAQ

What kind of weather can i expect on the gr20.

Temperatures on the GR20 can vary greatly. You need to be ready for anything and everything.

From very hot to severely cold mountain weather – even in summer.

Corsica is known for its micro-climates; each valley can be different. The weather is unpredictable and can change quickly.

Do I need to bring any equipment for the GR20?

There is no opportunity to buy any new  equipment  along the route, so make sure you have everything you need before you embark on the trail.

It is also important that you make sure not to carry too much, as that can be equally dangerous.

You will need good hiking shoes/boots , a first aid kit, clothes to accommodate all weather conditions, a water bottle,  sun protection  and  hiking poles (although, these are optional).

Do I need insurance?

It's important that you have comprehensive adventure travel insurance  against medical and personal accident risks.

What language do they speak in Corsica?

They speak French and a little English.

Are there any fees you need to pay to hike the GR20?

There are no fees as of yet, but you will obviously have to pay to stay in the refuges etc.

gr20-an-epic-trail-in-corsica

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About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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The Hiking Life

A Quick & Dirty Guide to Corsica’s GR20

Posted on March 14, 2017 October 22, 2021 Author Cam 67 Comments

The GR20 is a spectacular 180 km (112 mi) trail, that winds its way along the jagged spine of Corsica’s mountainous centre. Despite the rugged nature of much of the terrain, it is a hike that is within the capabilities of most backpackers, due to it being exceedingly well marked and sporting regular accommodation and resupply options. I hiked the GR20 in 2009. All logistical information has been updated as of March 2017. 

gr_20_map

Avg.Time :  11 – 12 days

  • The GR20 is one of those trails where the amount of time needed can vary considerably from hiker to hiker. As a general reference, given average conditions speedy hikers with light packs can usually do it in 5 to 7 days (not including side trips), whereas slower trekkers might take 15 or 16.

Start / Finish :

  • Calenzana (North) – Conca (south)
  • No real advantage in going either direction.
  • Corsica.forhikers.com provides a comprehensive overview of Ferry  and  Flight  options to Corsica. It also provides details  on getting to and from the trailheads and other parts of the island.
  • Early June to late October.
  • Tip : If you want to avoid the crowds, steer clear of July and August.
  • Click here for an overview of what you can expect on the meteorological front in Corsica.
  • Tip 2 : When mapping out your trip itinerary, factor in an extra day (or two) in case of inclement weather.

trek gr20 corse

Maps, Guidebooks & General Information :

  • Online :  Corsica.forhikers.com is an excellent source for anything and everything pertaining to the GR20. In fact………who am I kidding………if I was you I’d forget about the rest of my write-up and go directly there.
  • Guidebook :  Cicerone Press publish The GR20 Corsica: The High Level Route (2016) . The trekking notes and sketch maps should suffice from a navigational perspective on this very well-marked trail. A  Kindle edition is also available.

trek gr20 corse

  • Guidebook : If you speak a little bit of French, a good alternative to the English guides is:  A Traverse la Montagne Corse  [#67] . It has topo maps, is light and compact, and if you can’t pick it up online, it is widely available around Corsica.
  • Language : Speaking of which, from a communication perspective (particularly if you are trekking independently), it will be worth your while to learn some French before arriving on the island. Even if it’s just the basics; if locals see you making an effort, it can make a big difference in regards to your overall experience (see Cultural Considerations from the Hiking Abroad  section of the website).
  • GPS Data : Traildino and Wikiloc

trek gr20 corse

One of the biggest issues for many people on the GR20 is the question of resupply. I recommend the following:

  • You can supplement your supplies at Asco Stagu, Castel di Verghio, Bavella and do a full resupply at Vizzavona .
  • Enjoy at least a few meals at the refugios (mountain huts). It will save weight, the food’s pretty good, the servings are generous and the prices are affordable. It is also possible to buy snacks such as bread, cheese, and chocolate at some of the   huts.

trek gr20 corse

Hotel Restaurant Le Chalet (Asco)

  • Except for a couple of occasions in the vicinity of livestock, I didn’t purify my water and had no issues (I carried  Aquamira drops). That being said, most foreigners hiking the GR20 seem to regularly treat, and it’s probably the safer way to go. If obtaining water from a hut, ask the guardian in charge whether or not it is potable.

trek gr20 corse

Route / Conditions :

  • Signage : The GR20 is well marked with red and white blazes . Given reasonably fine weather, it is easy to follow from start to finish.
  • Exposed Terrain : Due to its undulating, sometimes rugged nature, walking on the GR20 is often slow going. Certain sections of the hike are very exposed; keep an eye on the conditions at all times.
  • Weather Updates : In regards to the weather, cell phone reception can be sporadic in the Corsican mountains. Check the long-range forecast before setting out, and then get regular updates at the Refugios (mountain huts) along the way. If a thunderstorm is heading in your direction, discretion is usually the better part of valor. Kick back with a hot chocolate or red wine and ride out the storm in the cozy confines of a refugio.

trek gr20 corse

  • Swimming: There are some fantastic swimming holes along the GR20. On a hot day, a dip in one of these crystal clear pools is an absolute must.
  • Side Trip : I did the side trip up Corsica’s highest mountain, Monte Cinto . Although the 360-degree panorama from the peak is impressive, I wouldn’t say it was any more spectacular than many of the views along the route itself.

trek gr20 corse

Summit of Monte Cinto – Corsica’s highest peak.

  • Huts : As alluded to above, there are mountain huts throughout the GR20, so technically speaking a tent is not necessary. That being said, the refugios are often crowded and noisy. You will also need to book ahead. I recommend bringing your own shelter.
  • Camping : Officially speaking, wild camping is prohibited on the GR20. You are permitted, however, to pitch your shelter next to the refuges along the route. To be frank, some of these sites are pretty ordinary. For discreet independent hikers who practice  no trace principles , it’s not difficult to find camping spots away from the refugios .

trek gr20 corse

  • The GR20 is a classic trek along the jagged spine of Corsica’s mountainous centre.
  • Forget about all the “ toughest trek in Europe ” hype. Yes, some of the stages are a bit rugged, but it is uniformly well marked, there is a plethora of trekking information available, and as long as you use some common sense and stay off the exposed areas when the weather is raging, chances are you’ll be fine.
  • Tip: Seeing as you have travelled all the way to Corsica, make an effort to spend at least a few days pre or post-hike, enjoying some of the villages and beaches around the island. It’s an incredible place with a rich culture and colourful history. The food’s pretty good as well; think a combination of Italian and French cuisine, mixed together with certain elements that are distinctly Corsican.
  • Tips 2 : Attention history buffs, Napoleon was born in the Corsican capital of Ajaccio. His ancestral home is now a museum. Well worth a visit.

trek gr20 corse

Final Sunrise of the GR20

trek gr20 corse

Final sunrise of the GR20

trek gr20 corse

The descent to Conca – the southern terminus of the GR20.

67 Replies to “A Quick & Dirty Guide to Corsica’s GR20”

Thanks, very interesting. And this made me laugh: “In fact………who am I kidding………if I was you I’d forget about the rest of my write-up and go directly there.” 🙂

No worries. As for the other website, what can I say, it definitely seems to be the best online resource for the GR20!

Nice Article…I did this trek a few years ago…’forget the toughest trek hype’…I wouldn’t…75% drop out rate… I lost a stone in weight in 10 days…it is the toughest GR…I loved it… highly reccomend

It’s definitely a great walk, however, I think the high drop out ratio might have more to do with the experience level of many of the hikers, than it does the difficulty of the trek. It may well be the toughest GR, but it isn’t the toughest trek in Europe. As I mentioned, it is very well marked, there is a plethora of info available and there are plenty of accommodation and culinary options along the way.

Hey , liked your page- I want to go next summer – do u know if u need to reserve if you use your own tent now? Also trying to figure out if I should just have 1day of backup food and just eat at the Refugio’s to save weight , or plan all meals . Could you just eat every meal and snack at Refugio’s or is that risky( especially for a vegetarian?) I’m used to regular backpacking and being self sufficient but it would mailer easy to not carry any food weight !

Out of curiosity why do you think it’s got the reputation of toughest gr? Everywhere seems to agree but without saying why. Can’t imagine there is more height gain or loss than some stages of say gr10 so is it the terrain? Is there much scrambling?

Just wondering as I’m planning a solo trip this year.

Hey Amanda,

Some of the sections are quite exposed and there is a bit of scrambling involved. Going over these segments when the elements are raging can be challenging. That being said, as long as you keep an eye on the weather, it isn’t too difficult too wait out the occasional big storm front in more sheltered environs.

All the best for your trip!

I’ll be starting the trail from Calvi on May 21st and I’m curious if it would be possible to rent crampons/pick in Corsica. As opposed to me bringing them on my entire 3 month hiking trip of Europe. Unless of course you don’t think they would be needed?

It all depends on the year. The Corsica.forHikers.com forum could be a good option for up-to-date info on the GR20 ( http://corsica.forhikers.com/forum/gr-20 ). Alternatively you might also try http://randoblogpnrc.blogspot.co.uk/ .

All the best on your trip.

No need for crampons

We will be hiking GR20 also end of May, how was your hike? Im curious about the snow/ice parts did you end up getting crampons (or use microspikes)?

Best regards, Darren

Hi Cam. I can’t find info if hats are open Sept 23 to Oct 2. can u help me with that?

Thanks John

To the best of my knowledge (I didn’t actually stay in the huts during my hike), the huts are “open” all year round, however, they are usually only manned until the end of September/early October (depending on snow conditions). For up-to-date information try: http://randoblogpnrc.blogspot.mx/ . Or the “Corsica for Hikers” forum: http://corsica.forhikers.com/forum .

Good Morning Im planning to hike the gr 20 around Sept 15 to end of September. It will be a solo trek unless i meet up with someone. Planning sleep in own tent. Use Jet-boil for boiling water. some questions:

1. end of September good time to go? 2. is reservation required if i tent? 3. where can i buy gas canister for Jet-boil stove?

any other useful info is always welcome. Thank you Bruno

End of September should be ok, and to the best of my knowledge reservations aren’t required if you are camping. I can’t help you with your third question; try corsica.forhikers.com.

Thanks – very informative.

I’m doing it later this year and am interested in your views on footwear. I’m an experienced Fellrunner and am intending to do it in Fell shoes, so I can move rapidly over the ground, (well, I mean a brisk walk or slow jog). Any specific observations as to whether walking boots would be a better option.

I used trail running shoes and found them to be fine. Definitely prefer them to boots for the GR20.

I’m an inexperienced hiker and was wondering if it would be a bad idea for me to attempt to hike the GR20 (or half of it). I there any special equipment required? And if i wish to do so, could i spend only 2-3 days on a part of the trail…or are there other hiking trails in corsica that are better suited for beginners who want to witness breathtaking views?

Your best bet would be to check out Corsicaforhikers.com. It contains a wide range of options for hikers of all different levels of experience. They also have a forum with up-to-date information on hiking in the region.

I did the GR20 3 years ago with 4 french french friends and I would highly recommend it. We did it in October when the huts were open but not manned so were able to use the cooking facilities and the bunks. We doubled up the stages so each day was between 9-11 hours of walking. I’m no fan of heights and didn’t feel it was particularly scary(although the then open Cirque was exciting). People say it is the toughest trek but I think that is because it is relentless (=c1450m per day up and down), 10 hours walking, you are never on a flat surface (imagine walking over large rocks on a beach so always having to watch your steps), you have to carry your food and after 8 days you are itching for anything rather than rice and water!, there are no WC’S and you wash from a freezing cold tap (in the cold if you do it in october) and the huts are basic. At the end if you have done it you feel a massive achievement, probably have lost a stone in weight, the countryside is stunning and for me it will be something that will stay with me for ever. If you have the chance do it! My advice is keep your ruck sack as light as possible.

Hi Cam, Thinking of doing this this summer. Great write up- thanks for turning me on to this route! I’ll probably go with my son and figure we’ll need 8-9 days or so. I’m wondering if resupply for cold soaking is a workable option? I’m usually happy with oatmeal, ramen, couscous, and beans. Will I need to bring a stove or plan to carry 8 days of dehydrated beans? It seems like we could get by without carrying too much food by eating at the huts, but wondering if that would slow us down much. Also, do you have any ideas about the easiest way to fly there? I’ve been looking at the corsica hiker’s site and using the flight search engines but haven’t hit on a plan yet. I know I probably just need to crank away till I figure it out, but since you’ve been there, I thought I’d ask. Thanks for everything! Love the poncho tarp!!

In regards to cold soaking, you should be able to pick up oatmeal and ramen. Not sure about couscous, and I doubt you would have much luck finding dehydrated beans (I could be wrong). Maybe a go for a combo of a four dinners in the huts and four bean dinners that you carry from the start?

In regards to flights, if memory serves I caught a cheap flight to Nice and then got the ferry over from there.

Best of luck on your hike!

Hi Cam, Thanks! I’m heading out for this trip soon and was thinking, doing this in the beginning of August would be as good a time as any to try out my umbrella on the trail. I also wanted to ask if you think it’s advisable to carry a hiking pole for setting up my tarp? I’m planning on finding secluded spots along the way as much as possible. Another part of my trip will be to the Dolomites area of northern Italy. I was wondering if you had an recommendations or have hear about must do hikes there? I’ll be mostly doing day hikes with the possibility or an overnight or two. Thanks for everything! I don’t think it would have occurred to me to hike the G20 if you hadn’t written this and I’m excited to check it out!

Carrying a pole would give you a little more in the way of pitching flexibility at day’s end; not a bad thing if options are limited. In regards to shorter hikes in the Dolomites, consider basing yourself in Dobbiaco for a few days.

thanks for this handful lot of pertinent information about the GR20. A friend of mine an I will hit the GR20 early septembre 2018. We’ll try to finish it in 7-10 days. We’re getting pretty experienced in hiking (Canada’s blessing us with a lot of «wild» hikes). Since this there’s quite a few of refugios, we were wondering how much liophilised food we should bring. The goal would be to hike as light as possible. Worst case, would It be possible to bring only emergency food and eat all the meals in refugios? Or logistically it would be complicated? We were thinking about bringing half our Breakfast/lunch/diner with us at the start of the hike, and eat the other half in refugio. Do you think that could be feasible?

Hi Guillaume,

Between the villages and the refugios you could definitely “buy as you go.” When I hiked back in 2009, I don’t think I carried more than a day or two worth of food at any one time.

Thanks for all the useful information ?

My friend and me are planning this trip upcoming July! Is it as crowded as a lot of websites say ? Do we have to reserve for the food in the refugees ?

Kind regards, Fien

I suspect that it will be quite crowded as it’s the high season. I’m not sure about food reservations in the huts, but I wouldn’t be surprised if that was the case. Your best bet for up-to-date info on the GR20 is probably the forum at Corsicaforhikers.com: http://corsica.forhikers.com/forum

Have a great hike!

Hi planning gr20 for next september. I am a 63 year old experienced hiker planning to hike/camp. Can I recharge cellphone/camera at refuges? Or will I have to add solar panel to my 16kg pack?!

The refuges do have electricity, but they can also be crowded, so there is no guarantee you will always be able to charge your devices. A small solar panel or a portable charger (e.g. Anker) would be the way to go.

Hi Cam, Many thanks for your replies to so many questions and my apologies if this has been asked; I’m planning on bring my own tent to GR20, does it need to be freestanding or can I use pegs? thanks.Melina

Either one is fine.

Hi Cam, thank you for this information. Are you familar/can you advise on Corsica hikes appropriate for April?

Sorry, but I’m not personally familiar with any specific options. Because there will most likely be a lot of snow/ice up in the higher regions, your best bet would be to investigate hikes in the lower altitude/coastal areas.

Nice article. I’m thinking of doing a solo 7-8 day hike on this in mid-May but you mention snow still on the mountains at that point. I’m a fairly experienced hill walker but not too keen on cramponing it through snow alone. Is there usually a lot of it around mid May or is there a way to avoid it? Any advice would be great.

It really depends on the year. See this thread on Corsicaforhikers.com ( http://corsica.forhikers.com/forum/p/24580 ) for more info on a mid-May hike of the GR20.

Best of luck!

Thinking doing it with my dad (who is in France- I am in California) in either May or September. I have done parts of the PCT here and other thru hikes . Been in Corsica as a kid in the summmer- Snow will never be as scary as in the Sierra’s passes at any given time, right?? no need for spikes or ice axes? Thank you so much for your article by the way! I was worried about the “refuges” and the food situation.. I am completely fine being self-sufficient as for me it is part of a wilderness thru hike and hated the fact we had to stay w people and eat in some specific places;) But your post reassured me. And if we encounter crazy corsicans w their riffles trying to kick us out- I have some powerful bear sprays of my own lol :))

Hi Laurence,

It depends on the year, but in May an ice axe and spikes could be handy. In September you should be fine going without either item.

All the best on your hike!

I am thinking of doing the GR20 and want to know if dogs are permitted on the trail?

http://corsica.forhikers.com/forum/p/16312

Im doing the GR20 at the end of Jun/begining of Jul 2020, going from South to North. Most guides that I have come across describe the route from North to South, is there any websites that describe south to north?, with options that describe quickest/slowest/average speed to do it in as I’ve seen a variety of differences. Is there snow on the northern part in Jul? do we need crampons etc? or should it be clear by then.

You should be fine without crampons in July.

Thank you for all this wonderful information. I did thew GR20 back in 1988(!) with three friends. I hope to be able to do it again either 2020 or 2021. Halas, I no longer weigh the 60kg I did then…

Hi there, I plan on using a pyramid shelter without mesh protection against animals. Is it sound? Are there flies there?

Depending on the model, a pyramid-style shelter without a mesh inner should be fine for the GR20. Bugs aren’t generally much of an issue.

Hi. Is there private huts or accomodation on this route? And/or is it possible to do sections of it? i.e. drive to a starting point trek for a day and then drive back to another section rather than sleeping in crowded huts or brining a tent?

I am planning to do GR20 in mid June in 6 days. How long should it take to hike the longest stretch between water sources? How much water did you carry?

There is potable water at all of the refuges and sporadic sources in between. I never found water to be an issue on the GR20, and if memory serves, I didn’t carry more than 1-1.5 liters at any time during the trek. That said, I tend to drink a bit less than most folks, and it is generally recommended to carry between 2 and 3 liters.

Hi Cam. I want to do the gr 20 by myself because I don’t have much money. I’m thinking do that just with my bag with my things and with my shelter. But I’m vegan, do you know if the Stop points around the GR have meals for people like me? Thanks

Hi Rui, I’m sorry, but I don’t have any information about the vegan options on offer at the mountain huts. You want to try the “Corsica for Hikers” forum. All the best, Cam

I looked at corsica for hikers. My impression was that options we limited and that someone got them to make special for him but it took cajoling. Seemed they make one thing and it usually has meat and dairy. But seemed like their are some places to resupply along the way so you could kind of feel it out as you go. I didn’t get to do the hike though because of an injury, so I can say for sure. I’d read corsica for hikers and you’ll get a better sense. Enjoy. Corsica is great and the trail is awesome from what I saw on my day hike.

Hi Cam No questions at this stage. Just wanted to say thank you for putting together this well-written and considered article. I also appreciate that you’ve diligently responded to everyone’s questions. Will probably have a crack at this in 2022 when Covid concerns have hopefully subsided and travel to/from Australia is again possible.

We are now planning a trip for September 2021, assuming that we all get vaccinated. Are the huts open this season? Are there any changes for the pandemic?

Hi Florence. Me too for Sept. maybe I will see you?

usually the huts close end of september , but it depends on the amount of hikers , if not enough hikers show up the huts ( especially the ones not close to a road ) might close earlier. the ones high up in the mountains close first, the ones near a road usually stay open a bit longer.

Hi Cam, I just completed the 800 mile AZT in Arizona. Any thoughts on the difficulty of the GR 20 in comparison? The AZT has a cumulative 118,000 feet elevation gain. Thanks! GFaub. “Sizzle”

Hi GFaub, Congrats on your AZT hike! As you could guess, it’s a very different experience from the GR20. The latter is obviously much shorter, well-marked throughout its course, and there are certain sections that are steeper and rockier in character than on the AZT. Cheers, Cam

It looks like the http://corsicaforhikers.com/ website is down. Any other resourceful website to recommend?

Do you think it’s feasible to do it without a sleeping bag if I sleep in my own tent and have a jacket and something else to cover me? I would rather not carry the sleeping bag if possible.

Hi there! I was wondering after I arrive in Conca, what is the best way to get back to either Bastia or Calvi airport?

Do you have gear list ?

No, I’ve never put together a gear list for the GR20.

Just finished this trek in 8 and a half day ? my first multiday hiking and it was worth it. I have to say that i only discovered it thanks to your site. So thank you ? ?

Hi Cam, I wondering what your thoughts on aperson who is totally blind doing this course. I’m a marathon and trail runner with a guide. We are looking at doing the GR20 end of June 2024.

Hi Richard, Thanks for the message. That question is a bit out of my wheelhouse. That said, if you and your guide have a lot of experience in rugged terrain and are comfortable negotiating some of the scramble-type sections you’ll encounter on the GR20, then I’m a firm believer that almost anything is possible. If you end up giving it a go in 2024, I wish you all the best on your journey. Cheers, Cam

Hi there. Planning hiking oct 10-20. Any ideas on hiking late season? Such as water at huts still available? Are most water sources dry by then? Will there be any stores still open in vizzavona or such to resupply? Late in the season but still doable depending weather. A bit harder to get info for this time. Thank you!

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Hiking the GR20 in Corsica: An Overview Guide

Pines and path on the Gr20 Corsica

Top tips and recommendations for hiking the GR20.

[Updated April 2020]

This post contains affiliate links for which Expedition Wildlife may receive a commission (where applicable) at no additional cost to you.

As prepared as I felt I was at the beginning of the GR20 north trek, I didn’t fully comprehend what lay ahead in the coming days on the trail. This post will cover recommendations and tips, gear considerations, and more.

GR20 Statistics

Distance Total:   112 miles (180 kilometers).

Total Elevation Gain:   41,900 ft (12,775 m).

Total Elevation Loss:   41,800 ft (12,735 m).

Duration:   16 days.

Physical Difficulty Level:   High , uphill and downhill training highly recommended.

Mental Difficulty Level:   High , comfort with heights and ledge exposure required.

Gear Necessity: Light or ultralight gear highly recommended (see list below). Food available along the trail, but recommend purchasing as you go.

Recommended Guides:  Cicerone’s  Trekking the GR20 Corsica: The High Level Route   by Paddy Dillion is an essential guide. *This is our recommended guide to take with you on the trail!!*. Or for French speakers, TopoGuides’ A Travers la Montagne Corse (in French).

Corsica GR20 map

Click the Google Maps image to see all the stages for this trek.

GR20 North Section – Calenzana to Vizzavona

Distance Total:   62 miles (100 kilometers).

Total Elevation Gain:   26,500 ft (8,080 m).

Total Elevation Loss:   24,300 ft (7,400 m).

Duration:   9 days.

GR20 South Section – Vizzavona to Conca

Distance Total:   50 miles (80 kilometers).

Total Elevation Gain:   15,400 ft (4,695 m).

Total Elevation Loss:   17,500 ft (5,335 m).

Duration:   7 days.

*UPDATE AS OF 5/2019: The Refuge d’Ortu di u Piobbu (the first hut on the North-South hike), unfortunately, succumbed to flames in May 2019. For the most updated information on this refuge, contact either the Tourist Information Centre in Calvi  or ask the Facebook GR20 forum. We will update here on our website when we find more information about reconstruction/opening times, camping permits, food availability, etc.

**UPDATE AS OF 4/2020: While the refuge d’Ortu di u Piobbu is being repaired and rebuilt, there is still the option of camping on site. Someone is available to take payment for pitching a tent, as well as to maintain the toilets and prepare food for visitors. Easy foods, such as cheese and crackers, can also be purchased, and an overhanging tent for coverage while eating can be used.

About the GR20

The GR20 trek is on the island of Corsica, just off the southern coast of France. It has been dubbed the “hardest trek in Europe” by hiking and trekking guides all over the world.

This designation is apt, as the consistent significant elevation gain and loss, coupled with the need to use your hands during dozens of instances throughout the route, make for a challenging trek overall.

Don’t let that scare you off from hiking the GR20, however. As long as you are in good hiking shape and have your wits about you with heights and ledge exposure, it’s likely you’ll be just fine.

The biggest danger on the trail overall is bad weather in the high mountains. Be sure to stay put if the weather is foul from the get-go as dry rock is near-essential for some sections in the northern route.

Always listen to your gut and don’t attempt to continue with a hike that is beyond your comfort level.

Bocca-u-saltu-GR20-Corsica

Despite its difficulty level, hikers come from all over the world to conquer Corsica’s stunning and unique mountains. Photo by Christa Rolls

Hiking the GR20: An Overview

The GR20 is classified as a long-distance trek, spanning nearly the entire north-south distance of the Corsican island, a total of 112 miles (180 kilometers). It has a serious mountain-to-valley elevation variation of about 32,000 feet (10,000 meters) over a 16-day hiking period.

The northern starting point is the town of Calenzana and the southern terminus is the town of Conca.

If you’re hiking north, top off your hike with a jump into the clear blue ocean at Calvi, just north of Calenzana. If you’re hiking south, jump in the ever bluer waters of Porto Vecchio, just south of Conca. It’s a tradition.

Keep to the red-and-white blazes

The trail itself is  well-marked with red-and-white blazes throughout the entirety of the trail. Keep to these marked areas as they will provide the easiest and safest direction of travel.

Choose whether to travel north or south

The most common direction of travel is from north to south, as most hikers prefer to get the harder days out of the way first.

If traveling from the south, the last few days of the trek will be the most arduous.

The trail is broken into two sections

The GR20 has a north section and a south section. Vizzavona, a small town, marks the junction between the two sections.

The north is the most difficult section , as the most technical and grueling days climbing up and down rugged and rocky mountains are largely covered  during the first four days heading south .

Get the right guide

The aforementioned guides and online resources have nearly everything you need to know about each stage of the hike, day by day.

The Cicerone guide has incredibly detailed information (nearly turn-by-turn) and includes nearly everything you’ll ever need to know about the hike , and the Corsica for Hikers forum (corsica.forhikers.com) is a great place to see a general overview of what to see and expect along the trail.

San Martino di Lota ocean

Doesn’t this look enticing? The ocean view from Pietranera, Corsica. Photo by Christa Rolls

When to go/Best Season to Hike the GR20

E arly June to Mid-to-Late October  is the recommended time to tackle the GR20. Most refuges and re-stock locations will stay open through September.

Wait until the refuges are open and the snow has largely melted away from the main parts of the trail. This is, of course, unless you have mountaineering experience and plan to hike the trail with the appropriate gear and experience. You may need to bring crampons if you go earlier in the summer season.

Check the trail conditions with the refuges separately, or  GR20 Facebook page . I must say, the Facebook page is especially helpful for updated trail conditions.

I went in September and the weather was perfect. All the refuges and various re-stock locations were open and everything wasn’t horrendously busy. Yet, plenty of people were on the trails and at the refuges. There also wasn’t any snow on the trail, and it wasn’t as busy as the trails usually would be in July and August (vacation months for most of Europe).

I recommend you avoid July and August, if possible, to avoid the crowds. 

Once you hit October, check transportation options and contact refuges ahead of time to determine if they’re open. Starting in October, you’re officially outside of high season.

Sunset at Refuge Piobbu

A field of tents set up by GR 20 hikers at Refuge D’Ortu Di U Piobbu. Just look at that view! Photo by Christa Rolls

Check out our other long-distance trekking guide of the Tour du Mont Blanc!

Cost of Hiking the GR20 North

For the GR20 north portion of my visit to Corsica,  I spent about €200  on transport and trail necessities. This accounted for:

Transportation

  • Bus transportation from the Bastia airport to the downtown Bastia train station (€9)
  • Train from downtown Bastia to Calvi (train station takes credit cards; €16)
  • Bus transportation from Calvi to the Gite d’Etape Communal in Calenzana (bus info center takes credit cards; €9)

Accommodation

  • Tent space each night at refuges (using my personal tent; €7-9)
  • Snacks for the evening (read: end of day beer; prices vary, usually €2-3)
  • Periodic lunches for the next day (Barquette or Tabbouleh; around €7)
  • Treating myself to dinner two nights (€20 at the refuges and hotels; hotels such as that as Ascu Stagnu will take credit card)

With the purchase of the tent space or refuge bed, use of the showers (which were always cold by the time I arrived) and communal gas stove is free of charge.

Prices for tent spaces and food at the southern refuges are comparable. The cost to rent a tent is typically around €10 and to rent a bed is around €14.

Barquette Tabbouleh GR20

Barquette or Tabbouleh purchased from Refuge D’Ortu Di U Piobbu. Photo by Christa Rolls

Getting to the GR20 trailhead

No matter where you are starting your hike, give yourself one full day to travel to the trailhead. It just takes time and a solid handle on the train or bus schedules to get to where you need to be.

Check out the unofficial Corsica bus (corsicabus.org) page for bus and train timetables. Also, don’t hesitate to contact the Tourist Information Centers for more information (all details listed at the end of this post).

Keep in mind that bus and train timelines will change outside of the high season. This is typically mid-to-late September.

Possible points of entry

If traveling north to south, you’ll want to start at Calvi. This is, of course, unless you want to only do half the route on the easy side traveling North-South. In this case, you would start at Vizzavona and end at Conca.

If traveling south to north, you’ll want to start at either Conca or Vizzavona. Head to Conca to do the full South-North trail or the easier half of the southern trail. Start at Vizzavona if you plan on doing the harder half-section of the South-North trek.

Getting there from Calvi

If you are traveling the traditional North to South route, the best option would be to fly or ferry into Calvi directly. Calvi is the closest major town near the north trailhead.

From there, you can either hail a taxi directly to Calenzana or explore around Calvi and take the Beaux Voyages once-a-day bus to Calenzana. Note that Beaux Voyages has limited operations times outside of July and August and may only run on weekdays.

It might cross your mind, to walk to the trailhead at Calenzana from Calvi. This will take an hour or two and you’ll be on a narrow road with no sidewalks. Exercise extreme caution when walking these roads and don’t assume you have the right of way .

Getting there from Bastia

Most flights go out of Bastia, but keep in mind that you’ll spend most of the day just trying to get to Calenzana or Vizzavona.

A handful of times throughout the day, a bus will be parked just outside the baggage claim doors taking people to downtown Bastia’s train station. Tickets for the train to Calvi or Vizzavona can be bought directly at the train station.

Consider getting a flight that arrives earlier in the morning to give you time to get to the train station to catch the train, then travel the three-hour journey to Calvi.

More Train Logistics

Trains go between Calvi and Bastia, and Bastia down through Vizzavona and to Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte.

You may also start off from Ajaccio or Porto Vecchio to get to the trailhead. To get to Conca, you’ll need to catch a bus from Vizzavona or Porto Vecchio via Eurocorse Voyages. Again, I recommend flying into a northern airport if starting on the north end.

The train does not go to the southern terminus of Conca, or Porto Vecchio, if you are considering a south to north route. Contact the Gite de la Tonnelle ahead of time to arrange for a shuttle transfer to Conca from Sainte Lucie.

Accommodation on the GR20

You have a handful of different options for accommodation along the trail.

The GR20 forums state there being issues with bed bugs in some of the tents and bed spaces. This is a good reason to bring your own tent!

Reserve a bed/rent a tent at a refuge

The first option is to get/reserve a bed at the refuges in one of their communal rooms. Or, you can rent/reserve a tent hired by the refuges.

Each refuge has its own setup, but keep in mind that refuge tents are often very limited.

If you are planning to trek the GR20 during the high season, especially July and August, contact the refuges ahead of time to reserve yourself a bed or tent space.

Bring your own tent

The next option is to bring your own tent and pay for a space to sleep on the refuge grounds. I didn’t have any issues getting a space for my tent. Just know that refuges tend to get busier as you move south. The easier sections of the trail have more day hikers!

Rent a hotel room

Periodically, there are hotels where you can get an actual room, if you want a hot shower and good bed. Don’t count on this very often, though!

NO wild camping

Wild camping is technically illegal along the GR20.  In some places, you’ll see spots that have been designated specifically for camping out, but these are few and far between.

Auberge U Vallone Corsica

The Auberge U Vallone sits among pines along the rocky slopes of the Ravin de Stranciacone. Photo by Christa Rolls

Food on the GR20

I packed all my own food for the entire northern section trip. However, I did end up getting lunch snacks at most of the refuges to carry for the following day. This, coupled with my Jetboil system, was heavier than I would have liked.

I would recommend having some snacks in your pack for the day and purchasing most meals at the refuges. This will save you a ton on pack weight, as long as you can manage the refuge meals financially.

Otherwise, skip bringing your stove system , as the refuges will offer a gas stove and utensils for cooking.

Food at the refuges

All refuges will offer some variation of breakfast and dinner, and some a selection of snacks and lunch barquettes.

Fewer still will have miniature stores with fresh cheeses or freeze-dried meals for purchase. Note that some refuge meals are definitely better than others, both in my experience and based on what my fellow hikers told me.

The dinner at Refuge Tighiettu was fabulous (local charcuterie, delicious pasta with sundried tomatoes and olives, and an apple puree for dessert). Friends on the trail raved about the omelets and dinner at Auberge U Vallone.

Breakfast at most refuges will cost you about €9 (usually bread and cheeses) and €20 for dinners (soup or charcuterie, pasta of some kind, and a dessert). The prices are pretty high, but carrying all of the food can be grueling, too.

It’s up to you how you want your hiking experience to be.

The food I packed and carried

  • Breakfast: apple cinnamon oatmeal and Starbucks VIA coffee.
  • Snacks/lunch: beef jerky, chocolate, nut, and fruit protein bars, LARA coconut bliss bars, fruit leather, cashews, and tabbouleh purchased from the refuges (sometimes it was hard-boiled eggs or crackers and cheese).
  • Dinner: Couscous and salmon packets, freeze-dried chicken gumbo, freeze-dried veggie burrito, and freeze-dried honey lime chicken and rice for 8 nights total (doubled up on each).

Water on the GR20

For the majority of the northern section you won’t have to worry about filtering water. Refuge managers will always tell you which water spout is potable or not . 

Most people I met on the trail didn’t filter from the tap and experienced no issues.

The southern half of the trail, however, has a different bacteria in the water. It is recommended to only use potable water stations or bring a water filter with you.

I drink a ton of water (about 3L+ in a day during a long hike) so I use the Katydyn 6L Gravity Camp water filtration system . I also kept the filter at camp with me.

If you drink like a camel, grab the Sawyer Mini water filtration system . It’s super compact and lightweight and is perfect if you don’t need more than a couple of liters.

Ford along Le Golo Fleuve Corsica

Nearing the Ford along Le Golo Fleuve – just look at those pools of glorious water! Photo by Christa Rolls

Weather on the GR20

Weather in the mountains can be incredibly unpredictable.

On my first night in Calenzana, the weather forecast anticipated only sun for two weeks. Yet, a raging thunderstorm came from over the mountains and poured down on us. Thankfully that was the only time during my trip!

Be sure to layer up as well. The elevation gain and loss will take you to colder, windier places, then back to warmer, less windy locales. Even in summertime, the evenings can be quite cool in the mountains.

Always check the weather forecast with the refuge the night before and morning of heading out. Don’t go up to the higher mountain passes if the weather looks foul!

Storm over Calenzana Corsica

Thunderstorm over Calenzana, despite the sunny weather forecast. Photo by Christa Rolls

Miscellaneous tips for hiking the GR20

Always leave your itinerary with someone you trust off the trail.

The difficulty level of the GR20 should not be taken for granted or lightly. Anything can happen in a mountainous and remote region such as the Corsican mountains.

Leaving your itinerary and travel plan, and setting up call times to check in with someone, ensures you can be found somewhat quickly if something bad were to happen to you on the trail.

Be mindful and careful

Injuries occur every year on the GR 20, usually because people simply get tired or don’t watch where they are putting their feet. DON’T get complacent on the trail! 

Always be mindful of where you place your feet. Only wait until you’re ready to continue when you reach a spot that prohibits you from turning around.

Learn some French

It will benefit you to learn a bit of French before you head out on your trip.

Not all of the refuge managers will be able to speak English  or languages other than French (which is technically different than Corsican but is close enough where French is well understood).

In addition, many of the people you’ll be hiking and dining with at night will be French speakers.

At the very least, learn to say the basic phrases, such as:  hello  ( bonjour  or  bonsoir ),  please  ( s’il vous plait ), and  thank you  ( merci ).

Get good hiking poles

Use poles when you need to, and know when to put them away . By the latter I mean, when you need to use two hands, don’t fumble around with trying to cling for dear life to your poles simultaneously. These are my favorite hiking poles.

  • Nearly all of day 3 I didn’t take my poles out because I felt they would hinder me too much on the ascent and the descent.
  • On day 4, I only took my poles out once I got to the long scree field about halfway up the ascent. Otherwise I needed my hands free for most of the first part of the ascent. The descent on the other hand is quite nice and there are only a handful of times that you have to climb down small rock walls.
  • Other than these two days, I was able to navigate the rocks with my poles collapsed in one hand.

Get good hiking shoes

Make sure your shoes are durable enough to handle essentially rock climbing on rough rock and that the tread isn’t falling apart. I swear by my Vasque hiking boots !!

This goes along with making sure you have broken your shoes in and have good socks that don’t cause blisters. I recommend SmartWool and Darn Tough  or using a liner sock to prevent rubbing. Seriously, I LOVE Darn Tough socks …

“Trust your shoes and your feet”

This was the best advice I received on the trail. That seems simple enough, but when you’re literally crawling up scree or climbing up rocks, sureness in your footsteps is what helps to keep you going.

Explore other parts of Corsica

Take time before or after the trail to explore other parts of the island and experience Corsican culture.

I spent a good amount of time in Bastia after my trek and I had a lot of fun. There are options to explore the historic city and eat amazing food, kayak, go boating, take a bus to Erbalunga or Saint Florent and simply explore, scuba dive, horseback ride through the hills of Cap Corse, and more.

Check out some of the tours offered around Corsica!

  • For even more adventure after your trek, go on 4×4 to explore the hills and beaches of Cap Corse .
  • Have a relaxing sunset cruise and wine tasting – trust me, if you’re a wine lover, try the wine!
  • Head out by boat to sea stacks to explore the ocean and even see some birdlife .
  • Explore the lesser-known western side of Corsica by boat , and relax on the beautiful beaches!

Lighten your load

If you can swing it financially, only carry enough food in your pack for snacks and some kind of lunch. Otherwise, forego carrying all of your food and a stove with you.

If you must carry a stove, I recommend a small gas stove or getting a Coleman canister to pair with a tiny setup and a titanium cup.

Refuges will have a kitchen with gas available for your use as long as you have paid for a tent space or bed in the refuge.

Scope out gas canister options

There are many places where you can purchase gas canisters, the most common type being the pierceable canister.

You can purchase adapters on amazon to have these fit to the screw-on canisters, such as those used with Jetboils. However, it’s possible to buy the latter at various locations.

The SPAR grocery store at Calenzana will typically have them in stock throughout the season, and various SPAR groceries around the island, especially near the GR20 or in Bastia, will carry them. I found mine at a hardware store a few blocks from the train station in Bastia.

Check out  The Next Challenge’s guide to gas canisters   for more information on different types, adapters, and more.

Take time for a rest day, if you need it

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with giving your body a break. This is a tough trek, so listen to what your body needs and modify your hiking days accordingly.

Watch for the rock cairns

Rock cairns on the GR20 are appropriately placed to guide hikers in the right direction. DO NOT add to or remove stones from these carins. They are especially useful in the high mountains when the trail blaze had been wiped away.

GR20 Route to Ascu Stagnu

The small rock ledge just under the red-and-white GR 20 blaze marks the “hiking” route up rock walls and granite slabs to Ascu Stagnu. Photo by Christa Rolls

Gear recommendations for the GR20

My pack weighed a solid 12 kg without water, which was definitely more than I wanted given my total body weight. Your pack should only be about 20% of your body weight .

Keep in mind that I was carrying everything on my own. It helps if you’re sharing the load with someone else!

The full list of the gear I brought is as follows –

Backpacking Gear

  • Deuter Lite 60+10 SL Hiking Pack  (Recommend Hyperlite  or similar lightweight pack, or smaller  Deuter pack size (45-55 L) )
  • Eastern Mountain Sports 20 degree sleeping bag
  • Sea to Summit backpacking pillow
  • Thermarest foam pad
  • Marmot Pulsar 2P tent (Recommend instead Ultra-lightweight 1 P tent)
  • Emergency blanket for tent footprint
  • Black Diamond hiking poles
  • Petzel Headlamp
  • Collapsible bowl
  • T itanium spork  or other eating utensil
  • Collapsible cup /mug
  • Jetboil stove (not necessary, as camps have cooking stoves to use with accommodation)
  • Coleman gas canister

Food and Water

  • Camelback 3 L bladder
  • Katadyn 6L water filtration system (There is potable water at every refuge, so a Sawyer mini water filtration would be more appropriate)
  • Breakfast, lunch/snacks, and dinner for 9 days on the trail (If you can, purchase more food at refuges to save weight)

Clothing and Footwear

  • Vasque hiking boots
  • Three pair hiking socks ( SmartWool  and  Darn Tough )
  • Reef flip flops  (or other house shoes)
  • Three pair Patagonia hiking underwear  (originally purchased on discount at REI)
  • Two hiking bras  (originally purchased on discount at REI)
  • One pair Columbia convertible pants
  • Two moisture-wicking long-sleeved shirts
  • Two moisture-wicking short-sleeved shirts
  • Patagonia fleece  (given to me by a mountain hut manager after someone left it for a month)
  • Smartwool long john pants  (originally purchased on discount at REI)
  • REI puffy jacket
  • North Face rain jacket
  • Columbia   Rain Pants
  • Buff neck warmer
  • North Face glove liners
  • Prana ear warmer

Emergency and First Aid

  • First Aid kit : alcohol wipes, antibacterial ointment, antidiarrheal, antihistamines, ibuprofen, antacid, epipen, gauze, medical tape, small round of duct tape, safety pin. In my first aid kit, I only used the ibuprofen twice and the alcohol wipe and antibacterial ointment once (not even from the trail, rather the steps of the first refuge… fail). I’d still recommend bringing a good suite of these things for your first aid kit. You never know when you’ll need it!
  • Hiking whistle  (check the chest buckle on your hiking pack – some have a whistle built in)
  • Travel Insurance – I recommend this for every trip you take!

Health and Hygiene

  • Toiletries: wet wipes, face wipes, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, contacts and glasses, sunscreen, mini toothbrush, toothpaste, concealer wand (for after trip), sunscreen lip balm, collapsible brush, shampoo soap bar
  • Lightweight camping towel
  • Sunglasses  and baseball hat
  • Corsica guide  to hiking the GR20 – comprehensive in detailing alternative routes, accommodation and food options along the trek, and history of the region

Tools and Repair items

  • Repair kit for tent/mattress

Backpacking Extras

  • Eiger Dreams by Jon Krakauer (I probably didn’t need a physical book, but it was nice after a long day)
  • Eye mask and ear plugs
  • Phone charger and battery pack (A Solar battery charger pack would have been better!)
  • Dry bag (I really didn’t need this on the trail… but it came in handy for my kayaking trip later!)
  • Stuff sacks for organizing gear (e.g., one sack for kitchen, one for food, one for clothes, etc.)

Personal Items

  • Credit cards and ID/passport

Monte Cinto GR 20

Standing at the Pointe de Eboulis, just below the Monte Cinto. Photo by Christa Rolls

Getting around Corsica after the GR20

There are buses and trains to get you around most of the island. If you want total freedom to visit places not regularly visited by bus or train, you’ll have to rent a scooter or car.

In the summertime and early fall, the buses and trains will run quite regularly. Outside of this season, some routes will stop altogether. Check the tourist information office websites for timetables and other information.

Otherwise, contact one of the main tourist information offices for information about routes and timetables.

Bastia Tourist Information Office

Place Saint-Nicolas, 20200 Bastia, France

+33 4 95 54 20 40

https://www.bastia-tourisme.com/

Calvi Tourist Information Office

Chemin de la Plage, Port de Plaisance, 20260 Calvi, France

+33 4 95 65 16 67

https://balagne-corsica.com/

Ajaccio Tourist Information Office

3 Boulevard du Roi Jérôme, 20181 Ajaccio, France

+33 4 95 51 53 03

https://www.ajaccio-tourisme.com/

Depending on which city you end up flying out of, you’ll have a host of options for different sites to see and activities to do before you head out.

Don’t miss hanging on one of the island’s beautiful beaches for a day to rest your muscles after the strenuous hike. Beaches found around Cap Corse and the Porto Vecchio region are especially lovely.

If you aren’t one for lying about on the sand, there are opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, boating and sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, and so much more at beaches in Corsica.

Most of all, have fun and be safe!

Are you planning to hike the GR20? Let us know if you have any questions!!

Happy hiking!

Christa and Nathan

Trekking the GR20 Pin

About the Author: Christa

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Trekking type, gr20 in corsica: the toughest hut-to-hut trek.

GR20 in Corsica:  The Toughest Hut-to-Hut Trek

The GR20, also known as Fra li Monti is a GR (Grande Randonnée) footpath that crosses the Mediterranean island of Corsica running approximately from north to south. The entire trail is about 180 km long with 12,000 m of elevation gain. Although it takes about 15 days to complete it, the route can be divided into 2 stages: the northern part, between Calenzana and Vizzavona, and the southern part, between Vizzavona and Conca. This GR route is considered one of the toughest of all GR routes, are you brave enough to give it a try? Below you will find all the information you need about the route, the stages, a map, and a kit list for your GR20 hike in Corsica!

For the GR20, some hiking experience in steeper terrain is advisable. The trek requires some scrambling, use of chains, and a ladder (on the Northern section) and to tackle the rocky landscape and mountain ridges. In order to face this challenge self-guided, you need to be a confident mountain walker and most importantly, you need to be able to read route notes and to locate your position on a map when necessary. Below you will find all the information you need to face this challenge as prepared as possible.

Where Is the GR20 Route?

What is the best season for the gr20 hike, how do i get to corsica, how do i get to the starting point of the gr20 walk, gr20 corse - should i start from the north or from the south, accommodation on the gr20, corsica, food on the gr20 trek, highlights on the gr20 trail, stages on the gr20 - which itinerary should i follow, is the route well signposted, packing list for the gr20, safe hiking tips for the gr20, where can i book the gr20 .

The GR20 is one of the many trekking options that France has to offer. Trekking in France should be on every trekker's wish list, starting with the breathtaking GR20 route. GR stands for Grande Randonnée, which means something like "big excursion" in French. The GRs are a network of long-distance trails in Europe located mostly in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Spain. The GR20 is considered to be the most difficult of all these routes and is located on the French island of Corsica, Corse in French, on the Tyrrhenian sea. Its Corsican name is Fra li Monti, which means "across the mountains" in Corsican.

GR20 Full Version

GR20 Full Version

GR20 Northern Section (Short Version)

GR20 Northern Section (Short Version)

If you are planning your GR20 trek, we advise you to go in late June or early September. During this time, most huts are open and the weather is not too hot. Also, the trail won't be as crowded as during July or August.

Between November and May, there is snow on the trails, which makes the trek quite dangerous. Also, during these months there are no hosts in the refuges, which means that you have to carry all the food. During winter, from February to April, the GR20 can only be completed by experienced cross-country skies with a professional guide. This winter variant of the GR20 is known as l'Alta Strada.

What Is the Best Season for the GR20 Hike?

As mentioned above, Corsica is a French island on the Tyrrhenian sea, also known as Corse in French. You can reach the island either by boat or by plane. There are 4 airports on the island, 2 in the north and 2 in the south. If you are planning on starting the trek from the north, then it is advisable to land in Calvi (CLY). If you are planning on starting from the south, the closest airport to Conca is Figari (FSC). The airlines flying directly to the island are Air France and Air Corsica, with flights departing from Paris, Marseille, and Nice. The flights take usually 1 to 1,5 hours.

You can also reach the island by boat. Between April and September, there are daily ferry rides from Toulon, Nice or Marseille. Of course, this option is cheaper than the plane but it also takes longer. The ferry ride from the coastline to the island takes around 6 hours. If you want to take a ferry to the southern section of the island, it will be even longer.

The starting and endpoints of the GR20 are Calenzana village in the north of the island and Conca in the South. Vizzavona is the midway point and easily accessible if you want to walk one half of the trail.

Once you get to a port or airport in Corsica, it is quite easy to get to the trailhead, both north, and south. If you land in Calvi (north), you can take a 30-minute ride by bus or cab to Calenzana. A cab usually costs between 20 and 30 euros per ride while the bus costs around 8 euros. If you land in Figari (south), we recommend taking a bus to Conca. The ride is 2,5 hours long and taking a taxi to Conca can be quite expensive.

Did you know that we can book all huts and refuges for the GR20 for you? Check out all our options here .

You can walk the GR20 trail in either direction, from north to south, or from south to north. Which is the best option? Well, it depends on your physical condition and what you expect from the whole experience. The trail can be divided into two parts: the northern part starts in Calenzana and stops in Vizzavona. It is the most difficult part, because of the steep and rocky path, but it is also considered the most beautiful half. The southern part of the GR20 goes from Vizzavona to Conca (or the other way around) and is easier, but less spectacular. The Coscione plateau with its green meadows is, however, breathtaking.

You can walk in either direction through the whole trail or you can choose to walk any of the two halves. The traditional route starts in the north and ends in the south. Since the GR20 can be quite crowded and most hikers walk southwards, some people recommend starting from the south and making your way to the north.

GR20 Corse - Should I Start From the North or From the South?

Below you will find a map with the GR20 from Calenzana to Conca. You can see some of the huts along the way and the city of Vizzavona, the mid-point of the trek that divides the northern from the southern half.

At Bookatrekking.com, we not only book your huts, we also send you on your way with a comprehensive hiking guide with the most important information for your GR20 , including interactive Komoot maps. Browse all our options here and turn your dreams into reality.

The mountain huts along the GR20 offer basic accommodation and food. These refuges are under the regional Corsican natural park’s authority and can host 25-50 people depending on the hut. Hosts manage the huts from the end of May to early October. Outside of this time frame, the refuges are open but not manned and there is no food available.

The refuges usually have one large dormitory with long wooden bunk beds equipped with mattresses. You can also sleep in a tent near the refuges. You can rent a tent at the hut as well. It is forbidden to camp in other places along the trail. Independent of which accommodation type you choose, you must always bring your own sleeping bag.

Huts do have electricity. However, charging your phone or camera can be quite a challenge given the number of trekkers and the limited number of sockets. Make sure to carry extra batteries or a (solar) powerbank with you.

What to expect in the huts

  • Indoor kitchen and eating area
  • Dormitory room with bunk beds
  • The bunk beds have two levels and mattresses are side by side. Bring your own sleeping bag!
  • Cold outdoor showers and toilets
  • An outdoor kitchen with cooking facilities
  • Bins for rubbish

Half board is not included when you book your accommodation. You can choose to carry food with you or you can get your meals at the huts. You can always find a freshwater spring in the vicinity of the refuges. You can also buy food and reserve a hot meal and breakfast. Bear in mind that the hot meals must be reserved upon arrival.

Breakfasts are often prepared the night before and handed out so you can leave as early as you want the next day. As regards lunch, if you are passing a refuge between 12h and 14h you will often find a small lunchtime menu with choices, such as cheese and omelets, pasta, Corsican soup, and plates of smoked charcuterie. If you order dinner (remember to ask for it as soon as you get to the hut!), it is usually served from 19h onwards. There may be more trekkers than seats available, so be patient. Dinner usually consists of three courses which vary from hut to hut. Bear in mind that you will be in the mountains, so don't expect over elaborated dishes. Also, you will be expected to bring your own knife to mealtimes, so don't forget to carry one!

Menus vary from one hut to the other and their meals usually depend on the stock they have. Hot dinners can cost between 15-20 euros, while breakfast and dinner cost around 8-12 euros each. Refuges are the only places where you can buy food and get drinking water along the trail. However, there are some stages where you can go shopping in the villages below. All refuges have an indoor kitchen that you can use. These are equipped with gas, water, and kitchen utensils. Remember to always keep a lighter, or match with you! You might find there are only 4 gas rings available for a large number of hungry trekkers, so try to be patient.

This spectacular trek is full of stunning views and breathtaking rock formations. Here are some of the highlights you will encounter during your trek:

  • Cirque de la Solitude: a steep and challenging part between Refuge d'Asco Stagnu and Refuge de Tighjettu, where hikers have to climb using the chains bolted to the rock.
  • Lac de Nino: a glacial lake in the middle of the grassy meadows between Refuge de Ciottulu di i Mori and Refuge de Manganu.
  • Lac de Melo and Lac de Capitello: two glacial lakes surrounded by rugged rocks between Refuge de Pietra Piana and Refuge de l'Onda.
  • Monte d'Oro: the 12th highest summit of Corsica.
  • Monte Incudine (2134 m): the highest mountain of Corse du Sud (Southern Corsica) with great vistas of the Plateau de Coscione between Refuge d'Usciolu and Refuge d'Asinao.
  • Aiguilles de Bavella: spectacular cliffs between Refuge d'Asinao and Refuge de Paliri.

Highlights on the GR20 Trail

Here is a detailed 15-stage itinerary for the full GR20 trek. Remember that if you don't want to complete the whole trek, you can start from any end of the route and end half-way, in Vizzavona. At Bookatrekking.com, we have packages for both the entire tour and just the North and South halves. Here you can find all our options .

Calenzana - Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu

Refuge d'ortu di u piobbu.

Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu

Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu - Refuge de Carrozzu

Refuge de carrozzu.

Refuge de Carrozzu

Refuge de Carrozzu - Refuge d'Asco Stagnu

Refuge d'asco stagnu.

Refuge d'Asco Stagnu

Refuge d'Asco Stagnu - Refuge de Tighjettu

Refuge de tighjettu.

Refuge de Tighjettu

Refuge de Tighjettu - Refuge de Ciottulu di i Mori

Refuge de ciottulu di i mori.

Refuge de Ciottulu di i Mori

Refuge de Ciottulu di i Mori - Refuge de Manganu

Refuge de manganu.

Refuge de Manganu

Refuge de Manganu - Refuge de Pietra Piana

Refuge de pietra piana.

Refuge de Pietra Piana

Refuge de Pietra Piana - Refuge de l'Onda

Refuge de l'onda.

Refuge de l'Onda

Refuge de l'Onda - Le Vizzavona

Le vizzavona.

Le Vizzavona

Le Vizzavona - Gite u Fugone

Gite u fugone.

Gite u Fugone

Gite u Fugone - Refuge de Prati

Refuge de prati.

Refuge de Prati

Refuge de Prati - Refuge d'Usciolu

Refuge d'usciolu.

Refuge d'Usciolu

Refuge d'Usciolu - Refuge d'Asinao

Refuge d'asinao.

Refuge d'Asinao

Refuge d'Asinao - Refuge de Paliri

Refuge de paliri.

Refuge de Paliri

Refuge de Paliri - Conca

Not sure yet or want to discuss your plans for the GR20 with one of our trekking experts? Get in touch today and turn your dreams into memories!

Just like the Tour du Mont Blanc , another famous French trek, the GR20 is well marked with red and white rectangles on rocks, boulders, and trees. There are also small stone heaps along the trail. Alternative paths are marked with a different colour. Bear in mind that it is easy to get on an alternative path without meaning to or to lose your way, so having a good map and a compass is necessary.

As stated above, huts do have electricity. However, charging your phone or camera can be quite a challenge given the number of trekkers and the limited number of sockets. Having a charged phone is not just a luxury, it is also a safety measure. You might not need it for yourself, but if you come across an injured trekker, you will need to ask for help and a charged phone is key. Make sure to carry extra batteries with you or a solar charger.

Is the route well signposted?

Know your limits

Hiking the GR20 is the perfect outlet to escape from daily life. It is an endurance sport along with a beautiful nature experience with a positive effect on body and mind —as long as one is in good shape and has a realistic picture of one's possibilities and limits—. Never overestimate yourself or underestimate the route. Don't overdo it! Always choose the slower variant and take more time for your plans. Hiking under time pressure is not fun and at too fast a pace it can be dangerous. Be wise!

Plan carefully

Good planning is half the work! Hiking maps, literature, the Internet and expert advice are invaluable when planning the route in the GR20 and enable you to determine the length, altitude difference, difficulty and conditions of the hike. When planning group treks, the itinerary should always be planned for the weakest member of the group! The weather in the mountains can change incredibly quickly and rain, wind and cold all increase the risk factor. For this reason, always check the weather forecast beforehand and contact our trekking experts to find your way around before you start.

Be fully equipped

Equipment is everything. In the most extreme case, it makes the difference between life and death, and in any case, it definitely makes the difference between having fun and having a bad time. Food and water, sunscreen and waterproof and warm clothes must always be in your backpack, as well as a first aid kit and a mobile phone with a full battery (in case there is an emergency). However, packing light makes walking easier, so don't take too much extra luggage with you. Your equipment should always be suitable for the terrain you'll be hiking on in the GR20 .

Wear suitable footwear

Good walking shoes protect your feet and provide a better fit. Shoes with a good fit, with non-slip soles, water-resistant and lightweight are a must for additional walking pleasure during the GR20 . Trail running shoes are great for a weekend in the mountains, but on longer hikes or more technical trails, you'll want at least A/B hiking boots. That means it is recommended wearing high mountain shoes that are water-repellent with extra ankle support to prevent sprains.

Stay on marked trails

GR20 has endless marked hiking trails, which are controlled and maintained and should not be deviated from. It may be tempting, but it's not a good idea to take shortcuts or alternative routes through unmarked terrain. It increases the risk of disorientation and you're more likely to get lost and have accidents or fall in the mountains. Even steep slopes of packed old snow are often underestimated and dangerous. Are you in doubt? Better don't do it. For easy navigation we work with our trusted partner Komoot, whose interactive maps, also available offline, provide you with the necessary digital means to get from A to B. As a backup, make sure to bring a hiking guide or a paper map with you. FYI, 75% of stumbles occur due to carelessness on marked paths or roads, not in open terrain!

Take regular breaks

Remember you're on a hiking holiday. Timely and regular breaks not only provide welcome relaxation but also make it possible to enjoy the GR20 . The body needs a regular food and drink intake to maintain performance and concentration. Our advice is that if you have little time, it's better to follow the short itinerary than to speed up the long one.

Stay reachable

If you are hiking solo or in small groups it is advisable to inform people back home about your plans, what route you are taking and when you plan to return. Even small incidents can lead to unpleasant emergencies so make sure you are available at all times. Bring a charged phone containing at least the phone numbers of immediate family members, your accommodations en route and the emergency phone numbers operating in the GR20 .

Respect nature

Leave no rubbish behind, prevent noise, stay on the marked trails, do not disturb wildlife or grazing animals, and respect protected areas.

At Bookatrekking.com you can book the self-guided GR20 and many other treks. We take care of all the details for you, including arranging accommodations and providing you with relevant information well in advance of your trek. Find our offers here . Our easy-to-use platform allows you to browse and compare different trekking options and find the perfect fit for your interests, abilities, and budget.

If you have any questions about a specific trek or need help choosing the right one for you, our team of trekking experts is here to assist you. Simply reach out to us and we will be happy to provide you with personalized recommendations and advice to help you plan the trekking adventure of a lifetime.

Is the GR20 not your cup of tea and are you looking for other epic adventures? Check out one of our following blog posts:

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  • Hut-to-Hut in Mercantour
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  • Peaks of the Balkan Trail
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  • Climbing Olympus
  • Laugavegur Trail
  • Fimmvörðuháls Hike

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GR20 Corsica - The Complete Route

trek gr20 corse

15 days from

Complete Europe's toughest long distance trekking trail, the GR20 in Corsica - from north to south

Holiday Grades

Our holiday grades explained.

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

  • Trek the whole of the GR20, north to south, from Calenzana to Conca
  • Enjoy varied terrain from forested slopes to airy ridges and rocky outcrops
  • Expertly guided hiking with an experienced and qualified tour leader
  • Vehicle support with access to bags where possible so you can walk in greater comfort
  • Enjoy restful nights, with 6 night’s camping to avoid the busy refuge dormitories

At a Glance

  • Group Size 6 to 10
  • 13 days trekking
  • Max altitude - 2600m
  • Join In Bastia

Accommodation & Meals

  • All meals included
  • 4 nights Hotel
  • 6 nights Camping
  • 4 nights Gite / Hostel

ZEN_HOLIDAY_INTRO_OVERVIEW

On this absolutely classic walking holiday you can challenge yourself to walk the complete GR20 Haute Route, on the beautiful Mediterranean Island of Corsica, one of the finest and hardest mountain walking routes in the whole of Europe; what a superb adventure! Rising abruptly from the Mediterranean Sea, with granite peaks soaring to over 2500m, Corsica is known as 'the Scented Isle'.

Famous for its dramatic coastline and pretty, perched mountain villages, the island reveals its most spectacular scenery only to those who are prepared to explore it on foot. Over the course of a truly spectacular 2 weeks we will cover a total of 180km of mountainous terrain, with approx 12,000m altitude ascent and descent, as we trek the entire GR20 route, from the pretty village of Calenzana near the northern coast, all the way down to Conca, in the south east.

As we follow Corsica's granite backbone down through the heart of the island, we will encounter a variety of terrain, which means that everyday is a different challenge; whether it be hiking forested slopes, high pasture and alpine valleys or scrambling airy ridges and rocky outcrops. This unique European trekking holiday offers the perfect combination of Mediterranean sunshine, inspiring scenery and a challenging walking adventure; you'll be returning home with a real sense of achievement. If you're up for the challenge of completing one of Europe's toughest walking routes, but need to know exactly what's involved? Then read our candid guide to find out if the GR20 is for you:  GR20 - Is It For You  

Completing Corsica's GR20 should be an achievable challenge for experienced mountain walkers. There are some consistently long days, with scrambling sections and high ridge walks; which will require you to be in very good shape, with good hill walking stamina and the ability to move confidently over rocky mountain terrain. On average we will be covering 10 - 15km per day (the longest day being 25km), with 800 -1000m ascent/descent. This equates to around 7 - 8hrs of walking each day, with a few days of around 9hrs (this is not including stops) .  We can look forward to some full and satisfying hill days, where we will begin at first light and arrive at our nightspot in the early evening. 

As the route cannot be fully vehicle-supported, you will be required to carry your sleeping bags, rain gear, the day’s food and additional snacks for the group, along with essential overnight items on 8 of the 13 walking days, though we will make sure to get your main baggage to you wherever possible (6 nights). If you want to know more about walking Corisca’s GR20, including some suggestions of good UK based training walks, then read our candid guide: GR20 - Is It For You?

If you want to walk the WHOLE GR20 then this is the itinerary for you. This is the real route and the whole trail from Calenzana in the north, all the way to Conca in the south-east. We avoid the busy refuge dormitories with 6 nights camping and the itinerary is also designed to allow you access to your main baggage on many nights, so you can carry less and enjoy more!

With everything except your travel insurance, airport transfers and miscellaneous expenses included, you have little to worry about except enjoying the journey.

trek gr20 corse

A single timed transfer is provided from Bastia Airport to the group hotel in Calvi where your holiday starts.

Accommodation

We make a very early start today with a transfer to the village of Calenzana, heading out as soon as there is enough light. Due to the remote nature of our overnight stips, there will be several nights during the holiday where we will not have access to our kitbags. Tonight will be one of those nights and so we will be required to carry our minimum overnight gear, including our sleeping bag, during today's walk. From the signpost that marks the start of the trail we take a sandy path that heads up hill passing through chestnut trees up into the Mediterranean maquis shrublands. The trail loops up to a high airy col, from where the views of the coastline and Calvi are stunning. There is a lot of ascent today. We continue through the pine woods to our first refuge, Ortu di u Pobbio. Tonight we will stay in the refuge, or camp outside. No access to main baggage.

We will cover some really interesting and challenging terrain today as we make the rocky ascent into the cirque of Bonifatu. On reaching the top of the cirque, we stay high and contour around to the other side, enjoying spectacular views as we go. When we finish the traverse, we can enjoy a good downhill section to the national park refuge of Carrozzu. Surrounding the refuge are high pinnacles of granite forming tall spires. One of them is home to a rare family of Lammergeyer vultures. From the terrace of Carrozzu we can enjoy watching the sun setting into the sea at the end of the day. Overnight Carrozzu Refuge or camping. No access to main baggage.

We begin today by crossing the river on an exciting suspension bridge and then ascend the gorge on a rocky path, there are fixed chains to help at times, to the Lac de Muvrella and then we continue up to the ridge above. From here, we have views of the western coastline, as well as the peaks that mark the entrance to the Cirque de Solitude. We enjoy this high traverse to a second col where the rocky descent starts to Haut Asco. We stay at the Hotel Le Chalet in this old ski station, which has been wonderfully refurbished. The hot showers and comfortable beds are well appreciated after the previous 2 nights in refuges! There is a bar and restaurant at the hotel. Tonight we have access to our main baggage.

From Haute Asco we take the marked trail that heads towards Corsica's highest peak, Monte Cinto (2706m) and we cross a ridge at around 2600m to descend to Lac du Cinto. This lies in a beautiful remote valley surrounded by rugged high peaks. From Lac du Cinto we ascend westwards to another high pass, the Bocca Crucetta 2450m, and from here descend to the Refuge Tighiettu and on to our overnight stop at the Bergerie de Vallone. We set up our camp nearby and dine in the cabin restaurant. There are some beautiful natural swimming pools near to the campsite. No access to main baggage.

From Vallone we have a leisurely start to the day as the path contours round through the pine woods. The gradient soon changes as the path pulls steeply up to the col above. It will take us around two hours of steady ascent to get to the refuge, Ciottolu di Mori. Situated at 2000m this is the highest refuge on the trek. After a break to fill up with water and enjoy views from the terrace, we continue along a fantastic ridge that heads south before dropping into the Golu valley. We carry on down the valley all the way to our stop for the night at Castel di Vergio, one of the island's small ski stations. Castel di Vergio hotel has been refurbished in the last few years and is very comfortable, with a little shop that stocks a multitude of useful items and food snacks! Access to main baggage.

We start the day with easy walking on a horseshoe-shaped trail. After a level start the path climbs uphill through the woods to the Col St Pierre (1452m) where there is a small statue. We walk through beech woods then enjoy an airy ridge walk to the famous pozzine (grassy meadows) area that surround the Lac de Nino where we can enjoy the lush green turf of the lakeshore. At 1743m, this glacial lake is in a lovely, sheltered location, surrounded by a spongy peat, making it an ideal summer grazing ground for horses and cattle. From the lake, the path heads to the shepherd’s cabin of Vaccaja (1621m), a fantastic spot, which is a working goat farm, producing some of Corsica’s famous goat’s cheese. The GR20 continues on for another 20mins across a spongy plateau called the Camputile to arrive at Manganu refuge where we will stay the night in the refuge, or camping nearby. No access to main luggage.

We set off for another magnificent mountain day. A rocky ascent leads from the refuge up to the high breche of Capitellu (2225m). We have splendid views from here of the lakes below and the imposing summits surrounding us. The glacial lake of Capitellu (1930m) is the deepest on the island (40m) with sheer sheets of granite plunging into its depths. Further below is the large apple shaped lake of Melo surrounded by spongy grass. We make a rocky traverse around and above the lakes and continue on to the Col de la Haute Route passing above yet another lake, the Rinoso. Reaching Petra Piana (1840), a small refuge that nestles on the lower flanks of the Monte Renoso, we can stop off for a break and re-fill water bottles before continuing down the Manganello valley passing by some magnificent rock pools on the way to Tolla bridge (942m) . We cross the river and walk the last couple of kilometres up through the forest to L'Onda shepherd's cabin (1385m), where we will set up camp for the night. L'Onda is a privately owned working goat and sheep farm, with a small shop. Hot showers are usually available for an additional charge. No access to main baggage.

Today will be a welcome shorter day, allowing us some valuable rest time in the afternoon. From the L'Onda bergerie, we pull up onto the ridge, where there are some truly fantastic panoramic views, we follow the ridge to the Muratello pass where we cross over and access the neighboring valley. The Monte d'Oro massif dominates, as we make our way down its flanks into the l'Agnone glacier valley below. We continue on to Vizzavona, where there is a vast forest and small railway station that marks the midway point of the GR20. Small dormitory rooms tonight with a cosy dining room in the Monte d'Oro Gite. Access to main baggage.

An early start this morning as we begin our big day of 28km of beautiful trails! Today's walk is long, but the route is relatively straightforward. We walk up to the Bocca Palmente, a pass which offers great views on a clear day to the flat coastal plains and sea lagoons. We drop down the other side and start a long easy section past shepherd's cabins and on to pass near to Capanelle (1640m), which is a small ski station in winter. We are essentially traversing the flanks of the dominating mountain massif, Monte Renoso. We traverse open slopes with wonderful views, cross numerous chutes and runnels of water before our last approach in and out of the forest, to our overnight stop at the Col de Verde (1289m). Col de Verde is a private gite and restaurant in a forest setting. We overnight in either the gite dormitory on in one of the smaller cabins. Access to main baggage.

From Col de Verde a forest trail ascends up through the woods and onto the high ridge above. We continue along the ridge in a southerly direction to reach the Refuge de Prati. We skirt around the Punta Del la Cappella and two further summits along the ridge before crossing the Col de Rapari. At the second col, Bocca di Laparo (1538m) there is a welcome drinking water spring nearby. The GR20 continues following a ridge passing close to the summit of Monte Formicula to reach the Refuge d'Uscioulu (1750m), which we will camp beside. No access to main baggage.

From the Usciolu refuge we follow a superb rocky ridge known as the Arete a Monda which involves some sections of straightforward scrambling. After the rocky ridge the trail goes down through dwarf beech tree woods to a flat picnic area and spring stop. Once at the Bocca de l'Agnone (1570m), there are several trails that lead to the different accommodations dotted around this unique plateau area. It is the highest and biggest plateau on the island, the vegetation and lovely clear waters make it a haven of wild beauty. We have selected a friendly private gite for our overnight stop, at Crocce. We either stay in the gite or camp. Access to main baggage.

From our gite, we head in a south easterly direction to the col Bocca di Chiralba (1743m). We then ascend to the ridge above to meet it at 2029m. Here we are in the shadows of the Monte Incudine summit. We follow the trail downhill via the refuge of Asinau to the river in the base of the valley. An easy section through the woods brings us to the alpine path that leads up and over the famous granite pinnacles of Bavella. The most exciting and challenging sections of today's route are towards the end of the day, as we scramble up some rocky slabs; there will be fixed chains there to assist us on the trickiest sections. Overnight gite at Col de Bavella. Access to main baggage.

The granite spires and pine tree forests make for a memorable last days walk. By mid morning we will arrive at the last of the refuges, Paliri. As we come down out of the mountains there is a real sense of achievement. On arriving in the village of Conca we have a well-earned drink before transferring to our hotel near Bastia airport (approx 3hrs). We are able to relax at this wonderful hotel before having a celebratory final meal in the restaurant here.

The holiday ends after breakfast. Airport transfers are not included.

Airport

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

  • The group will be led by an experienced and qualified tour leader
  • A single timed group transfer from Bastia Airport to Calvi on Day 1
  • All road transfers detailed in the itinerary
  • All accommodation as described
  • During the trek a full service - including food and all camping equipment (excluding personal equipment)
  • A closed cell foam camping mat
  • Vehicle support and baggage transfer
  • Travel insurance
  • Airport transfers (other than the single group transfer to Calvi on Day 1)
  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks etc
  • Any costs incurred should you depart the trip early

Day 1 There will be a single group transfer from the airport in Bastia to the group's accommodation in Calvi. This transfer is in the early evening. All clients arriving into Bastia airport earlier than the group transfer on Day 1 can wait at the airport and join this transfer (a local guide or a representative of our local agent will assist). Day 15 You will need to make your own travel arrangements from the group hotel to the airport in time for your flight; the easiest way to do this is by taxi. Hotel contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

All meals are included from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on day 15.

Many places on this holiday have drinkable water from the tap to fill your personal water bottles. Please check with the leader at the various locations. Please take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a  Water-To-Go bottle ) for days when drinking water out of the tap is not available. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles.

Breakfasts will be continental style and usually consist of a hot drink and bread and jam. If you are used to a large breakfast, it may be a good idea to bring some supplements such as cereal bars. Dinner will be a simple meal of home cooked food. At most of the places we stay this will consist of a starter of soup or cold meats followed by a wholesome and carbohydrate-rich main course such as pasta. Cheese and bread is also a large portion of the diet here. In most cases this is a set meal though it is normally possible to ask the hut guardian for more. Lunch is usually a pre cooked pasta/rice/lentil salad, with extra bread, cheese, meat and fruit. For this you will need a plastic Tupperware box (about 0.6 litre), and a fork or spoon. A penknife is a very useful piece of kit for lunches as well. In some places your lunch box will be filled for you overnight and in others you will be given a sandwich type lunch. A trail snack is also provided each day and you can purchase these at some of the huts and gites, but you may wish to supplement this with additional snacks brought from home. Please note that it can be difficult (but not impossible) to cater for vegetarians on the GR20. The refuges are isolated and depend upon local produce so if you are a vegetarian you should be prepared for a more restricted choice and a repetitive menu. Your lunch choices will be limited and often only omelettes or basic pasta dishes will be available in the evening. We recommend that you bring your own supply of protein (eg nuts and seeds) to ensure you can keep up your energy levels, as this may not be provided in the quantities you require otherwise. It may also be able to purchase nuts etc... en route at some of the accommodations. Unfortunately it will not be possible to cater for any other dietary requirements.

Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot always provide special diets.  Due to the nature of some of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your diet with food/snacks from home.  If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice.  Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances.

During this trip the group will have 4 hotel nights. The other nights during the trek we make use of park refuges, or small privately owned gites, either staying in the non-segregated (mixed female/male) dormitory-style sleeping arrangements or camping outside. Camping is often a better option to staying in the busy dormitories. On camping days group members will put up their own tents, which are held in storage at each of the gites/refuges. Whilst camping outside the refuges, we will still have use of the toilet and washing facilities. Please note that washing facilities at some of the refuges are simple and the water can be cold. Our evening meals will be also provided by the refuges and these will be taken in the basic dining area provided. It is possible to provide Single rooms (however these are very limited), but not single tents on this holiday. In the hotels the rooming is either on a twin, triple or quad sharing basis. If you are travelling by yourself you will be paired with other travellers of the same sex. Additional hotels nights in Bastia are available, please contact the KE office for prices.

Please note: it is not possible to bring your own tent o this holiday.

The group will be led by an experienced and qualified tour leader,

The altitudes on this holiday are not extreme and the maximum altitude attained is no more than the equivalent of a pressurised cabin on an international flight. You may ‘feel’ the altitude the first time you trek above 2000 metres but all that is required is a slower pace to compensate. You should pay particular attention to your hydration levels while trekking above 2000 metres.

Approximately €300 should be sufficient to cover your personal expenses including snacks, drinks, some tips and the final airport transfer. Bottled water, soft drinks, beer and wine are available at many of the refuges on the route, but can sometimes be expensive. If you are intending to buy expensive souvenirs, you should budget accordingly. You should bring this money with you in cash Euros as there will be no opportunity to change money once the trek starts.

Tipping is the accepted way of saying thank you for good service. It is important to remember that tipping is voluntary and should be dependent on good service. How much to tip your guide and local staff is entirely up to you, but we do recommend that you give any tips together as a group.

Costs for early departure

This is a very challenging trek, which is reflected in the grading. In Corsica we work with qualified IML mountain guides who work to strict safety standards and you should note that if they feel that your physical condition or performance is detrimental to the safety, welfare and wellbeing of the group as a whole, or if they feel that your general wellbeing is put at risk by continuing, you will be asked to leave the tour. You will only be asked to leave at points where there is close road access to return to Calvi or Bastia and you will be reunited with your baggage at the earliest opportunity. From the point of your evacuation you will be expected to cover all of your expenses, although our local agent will offer assistance with making alternative travel and accommodation arrangements either to remain in Corsica or travel home early. You may be able to claim for any additional expenses incurred due to your evacuation through your travel insurance.

For this holiday you should take one piece of luggage, which should be a soft bag such as a KE kit bag, and one 45 litre rucksack. For international flights please check your baggage allowance with your airline. During the trek your main baggage will remain in the support vehicle and you will have access to this on a total of 8 nights. There will be 6 nights where you do not have access to your main baggage. Effectively, this means that on 10 days you will be carrying your sleeping bag and any overnight essentials. 

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status and so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:

less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)

valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

For the latest details on visiting countries within the EU or the European Economic Area (EEA), please check the UK Government website

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders. A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required , and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check for the latest advice before travel. For the most up to date information on entry requirements, please visit the UK Government website .

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by KE leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

Vaccinations

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations.

GHIC / Medical cover

UK residents should carry a free Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). This entitles you to state provided medical treatment when you're visiting an EU country or Switzerland. This is not a substitute for medical travel insurance which is vital when travelling overseas.

The currency for part or all of this holiday is the Euro.

It is essential that you spend time getting relevant exercise. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. You should be getting out and doing a challenging cardiovascular fitness regime leading right up to your trip. You need to develop considerable stamina and endurance. You should be used to your hiking gear, which means that you are comfortable with your rucksack and used to carrying a certain weight. You need to have walking shoes/boots with excellent grip soles that you are used to, two poles that you know how to walk with and a camel bag (both of which we strongly recommend).

The temperatures that we can expect to encounter can be far ranging anything from freezing to 30°C. The micro climates in Corsica make the weather very unpredictable and fast changing. Be ready for hot sunshine, storms, harsh wind, rain, hail and snow cannot be ruled out in the summer months either. You can experience a whole range of conditions in the same day from minus temperatures through to severe heat and sun. For departures earlier in the year there is a stronger possibility of snow on some of the higher passes, on rare occasions with higher than normal levels of snow this can mean we need to transfer round this section - this transfer would be included in the trip cost and is not an extra charge as mentioned in the 'Additional Information' section.

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware ’ campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that prior to travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates direct from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

GR 20 Corsica. Paddy Dillon (Cicerone Press).

Corsica Walking Guide. Bergverlag Rother GMBH.

Corsica. Insight Guide.

GR20 2 map set 1:60,000 Libris

2 large scale maps showing the entire GR20, a useful guide Derived from IGNs with contour interval of 50m. and relief shading and spot heights. GR and other trails are shown. Though not at the detailed scale of the IGN, these are probably the better option for following the route without having to bring lots of maps.

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

The following check list should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum.

You must bring the following items:

Hiking boots

Trekking trousers

Waterproof overtrousers

Baselayer shirts (1 short sleeve, 1 long sleeve)

T-shirts and/or casual shirts

Fleece jacket or warm jumper

Windproof/waterproof jacket

2 trekking poles – highly recommended

Lightweight thermal gloves

Sleeping bag (comfort rating 0°C)

Daypack c. 45 litres

Headtorch and spare batteries

Sun protection (including for lips)

Water bottles x 2 (1 Litre) or 2 litre Camelbak/Platypus style drinking system. We highly recommend camelback/platypus system for this trek. (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)

Water purification tablets

Washbag and toiletries

Small towel

Toilet paper

Antibacterial handwash

Tupperware lunch box (0.6 litre)

Fork & spoon

Small padlock (to lock trek bag)

Insect repellant

Basic first aid kit including: Antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Immodium) painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, antihistamine cream/tablets (in case you get bitten!) and re-hydration salts (Dioralite). Glucose tablets and multi-vitamin tablets are a good idea.

The following items are optional:

Sleeping bag liner

Thermarest (note that closed cell foam mats are provided)

Waterproof daypack cover - recommended

Trainers or sandals

Spare laces

Earplugs (particularly if you are not the one snoring!)

Travel clothes

Repair kit – (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)

  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

You will not have access to your main trek bags on 6 nights. Effectively, this means that on 8 days you will be carrying your sleeping bag and any overnight essentials.

Cotswold Outdoor Red Panton

Tough but Satisfying ★★★★★

A challenging two weeks, but total feeling of achievement on completion. ★★★★★

GR20 - Corsica - july-Aug 2022 ★★★★★

Possibly the Hottest GR20 Ever ? ! ★★★★★

So proud & privileged to have done the GR20. Surpassed expectations. Fantastic! ★★★★★

Traveller Reviews

Tough but satisfying, a challenging two weeks, but total feeling of achievement on completion., gr20 - corsica - july-aug 2022, possibly the hottest gr20 ever , so proud & privileged to have done the gr20. surpassed expectations. fantastic, the gr20. is it really the toughest walk in europe, fantastic mountain adventure.

GR20, despite being hyped up so much, is an epic adventure. It offers rugged mountains, forests, pools, lakes, and long long hikes. Be fit and have stamina and just enjoy it. The mountain huts have been recently improved, with better toilet and shower facilities, so you can have a shower at any hut. Food is hearty. There is a danger of wild fires in August. All in all, an epic hike, one of the few in Europe.

Tough, challenging but great fun and a real sense of achievment

Travel light !

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  • GR20 Corsica - The Complete Route With Flights Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: COR /01/24/
  • This trip departs the UK on Sat 15 Jun returning to the UK on Sat 29 Jun This trip begins on Sat 15 Jun and ends on Sat 29 Jun
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  • Single Supplement Price: US$430 - Includes 4 nights only - Calvi, Haut Asco, Castel di Vergio & Bastia.

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  • Departure Reference: COR /02/24/
  • This trip departs the UK on Sat 6 Jul returning to the UK on Sat 20 Jul This trip begins on Sat 6 Jul and ends on Sat 20 Jul
  • This departure is guaranteed. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$550
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  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$550
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  • Departure Reference: COR /06/24/
  • This trip departs the UK on Sat 31 Aug returning to the UK on Sat 14 Sep This trip begins on Sat 31 Aug and ends on Sat 14 Sep
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Please be aware that the flight industry is experiencing a high level of service fluctuation and changes to your flights may occur. This may also require amends to the transfers and joining arrangements. Thank you all for continuing your patience and understanding.

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Home » Travel guide to Corsica » Things to do and see in Corsica » Long distance walking paths

GR 20 - the toughest long distance trail in Europe

GR 20 is a long distance trail that traverses Corsica diagonally from north to south. It's 180km long with variation in height of about 10 000 metres and can be walked in 15 days. Even though the GR20 doesn't require any climbing techniques, perfect fitness level and confidence in walking over a variety of rugged terrains is necessary.

Route planning

The trail consists of two parts:

  • The northern part starts in Calenzana and stops in Vizzavona. It is the most difficult part, because of the steep and rocky paths, but it is also considered more beautiful.
  • The southern part goes from Vizzavona to Conca and is easier, but less spectacular, except the Coscione plateau with its green meadows.

You can walk in either direction through the whole trail or any of the two sections only. Because the GR 20 is quite overcrowded and most hikers walk southwards, some people recommend walking northwards, to limit the meetings of crowds to short periods only.

Map of the GR 20 route

The map below shows the basic GR 20 route in green with red numbered markers indicating the starting/ending points of usual daily stages. Grey lines show another long-distance trails that cross the GR20: Tra Mare e Monti in the North near Calenzana, Mare a Mare Nord in Col de Vergio (8) and Mare a Mare Centre in Col de Laparo near refuge d'Usciolu (16).

Daily stages

  • Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu
  • Refuge de Carrozzu
  • Refuge d'Asco Stagnu (Haut Asco)
  • Refuge de Tighjettu
  • Bergeries de Ballone (alternative to Tighjettu)
  • Refuge de Ciottulu di i Mori
  • Castellu di Verghio (alternative to Ciottulu di i Mori)

Refuge de Manganu

  • Refuge de Pietra Piana
  • Refuge de l'Onda
  • Bergeries de Capannelle
  • Col de Verde (alternative to Prati)
  • Refuge de Prati
  • Refuge d'Usciolu
  • Refuge d'Asinao
  • Col de Bavella (alternative to Paliri)
  • Refuge de Paliri

Note: For the best online map of Corsica go to GeoPortail.fr , click on "Corse" on its home page, then select "Carte" left of the map and zoom to the ratio scale of at least 1:13000, where major hiking trails are mapped in purple and even contour lines are displayed.

The following table lists all daily stages of the GR 20 route. Click on the links to see more information about a particular stage and its detailed map including variants, side trips and escape routes.

(Source of altitudes and walking times: Parc naturel régional de Corse )

Getting there and out

Calenzana , the northern starting point, is located near Calvi and is well accessible from the Sainte Catherine Aeroport . You can go to or from Calvi by a ferry too and then use a bus route Calvi Calenzana . Going from Bastia , you can get to Calvi either by bus (one connection a day except Sundays, duration 2 hours), or by train (two or three connections a day, duration 2h44). See the bus Bastia-Clavi timetable or look up the train from Bastia to Calvi .

Conca at the southern end of GR 20 is located near Porto Vecchio , connected via ferries with Marseille and Livorno, and near Figari airport. Bus routes connect Porto Vecchio with Conca and Porto Vecchio with Bastia . There is a railway station in Vizzavona with trains going to and from Bastia and Ajaccio, as well as the bus route Ajacio - Corte - Bastia . Learn more about Corsican airports or how to get to or from Corsica by ferry or by air .

Alternate entry and exit points

Besides the main entry points in Calenzana, Vizzavona and Conca there are a couple of another places where you can get on or off the GR 20 trail:

  • Bonifatu - Refuge de Carozzu. There is a road from Calenzana to Maison Forestiere de Bonifatto and even a little further to Cirque de Bonifatu, where it joins the alternate route between refuges Piobbu and Carozzu. See stage 1 for a detailed map.
  • Asco Stagnu (Haut-Asco) in the 3rd stage is reachable by car via D147 road from Ponte Leccia across Asco. Haut Asco is a popular ski resort and the trail head for climbing Monte Cinto, the highest peak in Corsica, so you can try hitch-hiking to or from there. There is also a bus line between Ponte Leccia and Asco .
  • Col de Verghio is a mountain pass on the D84 road from Corte to Porto (via Albertacce and Evisa) with a decent traffic. For details see the map of the 5th stage . A seasonal bus line from Corte to Porto crosses the Vergio Pass.
  • A footpath through the Tavignano Valley goes from Corte to Lac de Nino in the 6th stage .
  • Another path from Corte goes through Restonica Valley and joins the GR 20 above Lac de Melo in the 7th stage . A bus goes from Corte to the Bergeries de Grutelle approx. hourly in summer.
  • Refuge de Manganu in the 6th stage can be reached via foothpath going across Lac de Creno from the villages of Soccia and Orto.
  • Another foothpath connects Refuge de Pietra Piana in the 7th stage with the village of Guagno.
  • Bergerie de Capannelle in the 10th stage is at the end of the road from Ghisoni but there isn't a lot of traffic there.
  • Col de Verde ( stage 11 ) is located on the D69 road from Ghisoni to Cozzano. Traffic is quite low there.
  • D268 road from Ajaccio to the east coast crosses the GR20 at Col de Bavella ( stage 14 ). Traffic is high enough there to rely on hitch-hiking.

The best time for the GR20 trek is late June and early September, when most huts are open, weather is not so hot and the trail is less crowded than in July or August. Between November and May there is snow in the mountains and the trail is quite dangerous. There are no guards in refuges off-season, so you have to carry all food.

In winter (February to April), the GR 20 can be only crossed by experienced cross-country skiers with a high mountain guide. The winter variant of the GR20's northern part is known as l'Alta Strada .

Lodging and food

Mountain huts (refuges) along the GR 20 offer basic accommodation and food. Refuges, where can sleep 25-50 people (see details of the particular stages), have usually one large dormitory with long wooden bunks that are equipped with thick mattresses. Sleeping in tent nearby the refuges is possible, on other places along the trail it is not permitted. Taking a tent is a good idea as you cannot always guarantee that you can get into a refuge.

Refuges are run by Parc naturel régional de Corse (PNRC) . Prices as of June 2009 are 10 € per bed in a hut and 5 € per person camping. Additionally there are a couple of private bergeries, gites and hotels along the trail that are generally more comfortable and more expensive (see stages).

Refuges are the only places where you can buy food and get drinking water along the trail. In some stages you can go shopping to the villages below the mountains (Calasima or Albertace in the 5th stage , Soccia in the 6th stage etc.).

All the above apply to the season from June to September only. Although the PNRC refuges stay open all year round for safety, don't expect food, drinking water, heat and light in them between November and May.

The trail is well marked with red and white rectangles on rocks, boulders and trees. Feeder paths are marked with one colour. There are also small stone heaps along the path. It's still easy to get on a feeder path or to lose the way, so having a good map is necessary.

Highlights of the trail

  • Cirque de la Solitude -- a steep and challenging part of the 4th stage , where hikers have to climb using the chains bolted to the rock.
  • Lac de Nino -- a glacial lake in the middle of the grassy meadows in the 6th stage .
  • Lac de Melo and Lac de Capitello -- two another glacial lakes surrounded by rugged rocks in the 8th stage .
  • Monte d'Oro -- the 12th highest summit of Corsica in the alpine variant of the 9th stage .
  • Monte Incudine (2134 m) -- the highest mountain of Corse du Sud (Southern Corsica) with great vistas of Plateau de Coscione in the 13th stage .
  • Aiguilles de Bavella -- a spectacular cliffs in the 14th stage .

Possible side trips

  • Monte Corona -- ascent to the 2144 m high summit at the end of the 1st stage (or the beginning of the 2nd stage ).
  • Cirque de Bonifatu -- a little less scenic yet more shady variant of the 2nd stage .
  • Monte Cinto -- ascent to the highest summit of Corsica (2706 m) at the end of the 3rd stage .
  • Paglia Orba -- ascent to the 7th highest (and the most beautiful according to many people) peak of Corsica (2525 m) in the 5th stage (climbing skills are necessary).
  • Lac de Creno -- descent to the beautiful lake in the 6th stage .
  • Monte Rotondo (Monte Ritondu) -- ascent to the 2nd highest summit of Corsica (2622 m) in the 7th stage .
  • Monte Renoso -- ascent to the 2352 m high summit above the glacial lake of Bastiani (2089 m) in the 11th stage .

You can admire beauty of the GR 20 in this fantastic 55-minute documentary video filmed by Michele, who was so kind and posted it to our forum. He did the Northern part of the trek in July 2010.

Corsica GR20 North: Memories of a trekker (English version) from RedAlert on Vimeo .

GPS files for download

If you use a GSP handheld device (Garmin, Magelan etc.), you can download the following tracks in GPX format:

  • gr20-nord.gpx (96 kB) - the northern part of the GR 20 trail from Calenzana to Vizzavona, including variants (Cirque de Bonifatu, Monte d'Oro, Canaglia) and side trips (Monte Cinto, Calasima, Lac de Creno). No named way points included.
  • gr20-sud.gpx (69 kB) - the southern part of the GR 20 trail from Vizzavona to Conca, including alpine variant across the Aiguilles de Bavella. No named way points included.
  • gr20-all-wp.gpx (29 kB) - all named places, both the waypoints on the track and the points of interest along the route.
  • gr20-all.gpx (191 kB) - the three files above merged into one.

Note: You are welcome to link to the files using this link . Please don't link to the files directly, because their name and location could vary. Read more details on GR20's GPS data in my blog .

GR 20 name's origin

GR stands for Grande Randonnée , which means big excursion in French. It is a network of long-distance footpaths in Europe, mostly in France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Spain. GR20 is considered to be the most difficult of all the GR routes. Its Corsican name is Fra li monti (sometimes spelled wrong as Fra li monte ), what means "across the mountains" in Corsican.

GR 20 discussion

Ask a question or share your personal experience related to the GR 20 trail in our GR20 discussion forum . Please, don't ask questions in the comments below on this page. Comments are provided just as a feed back for the page's author and may be deleted after some time.

Additional resources on the GR 20 trail

  • GR 20 on the Parc naturel régional de Corse official website -- official info, advices, stages' description and contacts of regional authority (in French)
  • GR20: Corsica, The High Level Route -- an excellent guide book by Paddy Dillon and published by Cicerone . Another interesting one is Walking on Corsica, Long-distance and short walks by Gillian Price.

Photos of the GR 20 trail

Mountains above Calenzana

Looking toward Refuge de Carrozzu

Lac de Bastani

More photos of the GR 20 trail

  • GR 20, stage 1: Calenzana - Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu
  • GR 20, stage 2: Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu - Refuge de Carrozzu
  • GR 20, stage 3: Refuge de Carrozzu - Refuge d'Asco Stagnu
  • GR 20, stage 4: Refuge d'Asco Stagnu - Refuge de Tighjettu
  • GR 20, stage 5: Refuge de Tighjettu - Refuge de Ciottulu di i Mori
  • GR 20, stage 6: Refuge de Ciottulu di i Mori - Refuge de Manganu
  • GR 20, stage 7: Refuge de Manganu - Refuge de Pietra Piana
  • GR 20, stage 8: Refuge de Pietra Piana - Refuge de l'Onda
  • GR 20, stage 9: Refuge de l'Onda - Vizzavona
  • GR 20, stage 10: Vizzavona - Bergeries de Capannelle
  • GR 20, stage 11: Bergeries de Capannelle - Refuge de Prati
  • GR 20, stage 12: Refuge de Prati - Refuge d'Usciolu
  • GR 20, stage 13: Refuge d'Usciolu - Refuge d'Asinao
  • GR 20, stage 14: Refuge d'Asinao - Refuge de Paliri
  • GR 20, stage 15: Refuge de Paliri - Conca

Last modified on Sun, 2013-04-28 18:47

All texts and images (c) 2006-11 Corsica for Hikers, unless stated otherwise. Contact

TMBtent

The Ultimate Guide to the GR20 

“The toughest trek in Europe” “One of the top trails in the world” “More rock climbing than hiking” “Unimaginably rugged mountains” “Awe-inspiring scenery” “Mythical.”

With so many legendary stories surrounding it, what can we say about the GR20 that hasn’t been said already? We’re here to tell you that the legends are legit. The GR20 is all of those things and more. If you’re a passionate hiker, consider this trek to be your piece de resistance, your Superbowl, your ultimate adventure. Due to its challenging reputation, many hikers feel too intimidated to take on the GR20, and among those who do attempt it, a large percentage don’t complete it. Don’t let that be you!

View from Bocca Piccaia.

With the right preparation, you can tackle the infamous GR20 and even ( gasp! ) have a ton of fun doing it . The key is having realistic expectations and doing some advance planning. Our guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for this epic adventure. Trust us, it is so worth it. 

What’s in this Guide:

  • About the hike

How long is the GR20?

  • How difficult is the GR20 ?
  • When to hike
  • Which direction to hike
  • Food and drink on the GR20
  • Accommodation
  • What to pack

Electronics

  • A Stage-by-Stage Guide to the GR20

Hiker on the GR20

Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your GR20 Trek

Plan your perfect trip on Corsica’s GR20 trail with our comprehensive guide. Get access to downloadable eGuides, custom GPS maps, refuge options, and video fly-throughs of each itinerary.

  • 3 Itineraries: Detailed 14, 15, & 16-day plans
  • Offline Maps: Custom GPS maps
  • Lodging Info: Refuge descriptions for each stage
  • Planning Portal: GPS files, guides, etc
  • e-Guides: Tailored, downloadable, & printable guides
  • Training Plan: 15-week training plan

eBook Mockup GR20 Trek

( Limited Time Offer & 100% Money Back Guarantee )

About the GR20

The GR20* runs roughly north to south across the island of Corsica . Corsica is a semi-autonomous French territory located in the Mediterranean Sea. Sometimes referred to as the ‘Granite Isle,’ Corsica owes much of its beauty to its rich and diverse geologic history. This relatively small island boasts a wide array of spectacular natural scenery, including towering granite spires, lush wooded valleys, and turquoise rock pools .  

* GR=”Grande Randonee,” a term for a collection of Europe’s greatest long-distance footpaths

Distance: 180 km (112 miles)

Elevation gain: 10,000 meters (32,808 feet)

How long does it take to hike the GR20?

Typically 12-15 days, depending on fitness and pace . Many hikers may want to give themselves 16 days to allow for a rest day and flexibility in the case of inclement weather. Attempting to complete the entire route in less than 12 days is only recommended for the very hardcore hiker who is up for spending long days on the trail. It is important to keep in mind that the GR20 is different from many other hikes due to the amount of scrambling required. While you might have a good sense of your hiking pace on normal trails,those estimates tend to go out the window on the GR20.

Our advice? Give yourself more time than you think you need and don’t try to “double up” on stages. The trek is way more enjoyable (and still plenty challenging) when you’re not rushing through it or pushing your limits too far . That said, when we were hiking, we met a superhuman who was trying to do the entire thing in five days. Different strokes for different folks I guess! 

Auberge on the southern half of the GR20.

I only have time to do half…should I hike the North or South?

The GR20 is neatly divided into two sections, the northern (“nord”) and southern (“sud”), with the town of Vizzavona at the midpoint. This makes it relatively easy to hop on or off the trail at Vizzavona in order to only hike one half.  If you have to choose, take comfort in the fact that the GR20 is truly spectacular from start to finish and you can’t go wrong with either section!

In our opinion, the north has the most rugged and beautiful mountain scenery and it’s more fun and interesting to hike. The trade-off, however, is that it also entails the most scrambling and greater sections of trail that are steep and technical. The south is a bit mellower, but it definitely isn’t easy . There are still plenty of tough climbs and parts that require scrambling. If you choose to only hike the southern half, you’ll still get some beautiful mountain views, but you’ll also spend a good amount of time down in the forests and valleys. 

How difficult is the GR20?

There’s no doubt about it- the GR20 is a challenging trek. Some of the major factors that contribute to its difficulty are the large amount of scrambling, steep ascents and descents, overall distance, heat and weather, and exposed nature of the trail. We believe that most reasonably fit people can complete the GR20, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they should .  You’re much, much more likely to actually enjoy it if you are in good hiking shape and have backpacking experience. Most of the scrambling is pretty manageable; it is just tricky and awkward at times and can become tiring after you’ve been at it for a while. If you are judicious about avoiding storms and careful on exposed sections, it really isn’t much more dangerous than other hikes. 

Read More: How Difficult is the GR20?

Our top tips for making the gr20 less challenging:.

1. Carry the lightest backpack possible. 

2. Only hike one stage per day. Don’t try to double-up stages and take on more than necessary. Give your body time to recover in the afternoon rather than spending 8+ hours on the trail every day.

3. Start early! High temperatures increase your effort level significantly. Avoid the worst of the afternoon heat (and storms) by getting on the trail at sunrise.

These three simple things can absolutely be the difference-maker in terms of whether or not you complete the trek (and do so without hating every second of it). 

Hiker scrambling on the GR20.

Read More: How to Train for the GR20

When to hike the gr20.

The typical hiking season for the GR20 lasts from June through September. It may be possible to hike in the later part of May, but you’ll need to be prepared for snow and ice on the trail. 

  • If hiking in May , the refuges will be open but not staffed, meaning that you’ll need to bring all of your own food and fuel. 
  • Beginning in June , the refuges will be staffed and supplied, but you may still need to negotiate some sections of snow and ice along the trail. The weather in June will be warm, but not too hot. 
  • July and August are the most popular months for hiking the GR20. All of the services (accommodation, busses, etc) will be fully operating and the trail should be clear of snow. Expect very hot weather and afternoon thunderstorms. 
  • September brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. The refuges remain staffed through the end of the month, but the bus services are reduced and some of the bergeries start to close. 
  • Hiking is possible in October , but the refuges will not be staffed (they will remain open) and snow is likely from mid-October onwards. 

May and October are the least crowded times on the trail. June and September are quieter than the peak season, but still quite busy. The trail is the most crowded in July and August. We recommend making advance reservations for all accommodation (unless carrying your own tent) if you’re planning on trekking anytime between June and September.  

Sunrise on the Spasimata Slabs

Mountain weather is always volatile, and the GR20 is no different. However, the GR20 is rather unique in the sense that the trail stays high up on exposed ridges for long stretches, making it more important than ever for hikers to be vigilant about the conditions . Getting caught high up in the mountains during a storm is extremely dangerous, but you can greatly minimize your risk by taking a few important precautions.

  • Always ask the wardens at the refuge for the latest weather forecast and heed their advice.
  • The Meteoblue App is arguably the best resource for checking the weather . It allows you to see the forecast for specific peaks or coordinates, plus it has excellent radar displays and wind predictions. Check it every time you have cell service.
  • Start hiking early in the day! Not only will you enjoy gorgeous sunrises, get to camp before the crowds, and avoid the heat, but you’ll also greatly reduce your risk of getting caught in afternoon thunderstorms. 

Looking down on Lac du Cinto

Which Direction?

The traditional GR20 route starts in Calenzana in the north, passes through the midpoint in Vizzavona, and finishes in Conca in the south. However, it is possible to hike in either direction. The northern half of the GR20 has a reputation for being the toughest, while the southern half is a bit gentler . Some trekkers prefer to start in the south to get accustomed to the trail before tackling the tougher sections in the north. Others would rather start in the north in order to put the biggest days behind them early and do so with fresh legs.

It is totally a matter of personal preference, although we hiked from north to south and would definitely recommend it . We benefited from the confidence boost that came with conquering the most challenging sections early on, and we felt the ascents and descents were more manageable in this direction. While slightly less people hike in the northbound direction, you probably won’t notice a significant difference in crowds since hikers headed both ways stay at the same refuges. 

Trail sign showing the GR20 Nord and GR20 Sud

Food and Drink

As we’ve mentioned before (and certainly will remind you about again!), keeping your backpack as light as possible is essential for having a successful GR20 trek. Fortunately, you don’t need to carry much food, which will significantly reduce your pack weight. Food can be purchased at all of the refuges along the route . However, there is a lot of variation in terms of what’s available at any given refuge on any given day. It’s not cheap, but it doesn’t have to be super expensive either, providing that you cook your own meals. On the other hand, if you order meals at the refuges, expect to pay upwards of € 20 for a glorified bowl of pasta.

Most refuges on the GR20 also have small shops where you can get basics like bread, pasta, sauce, canned fish, canned meals, chocolate, and biscuits . All of the refuges also serve dinner and breakfast, and some offer a-la-carte meals throughout the day as well. Beer, wine, soda, coffee, and tea are sold everywhere. There are no grocery stores along the GR20. The closest you’ll get to a supermarket are the larger, better-stocked shops available at a few refuges and campgrounds along the route. We’ve noted the locations of these within the guide. On the trail between the refuges, there generally isn’t anywhere to purchase food, save for the rare exception of a bergerie selling cheese and charcuterie. 

Refuge de Carozzu menu

Dietary Restrictions

The GR20 is not very accommodating to those with special diets. Vegetarians will be alright, provided they are okay with eating pasta for dinner every night and consuming large amounts of cheese and bread. We recommend carrying at least one “backup” meal in case you can’t find veg-friendly food at a refuge. Those who are vegan or gluten-free should plan on bringing most of their own food, as their options will be very limited.  

Nearly every accommodation along the route provides a cooking area that is free to use for all who are staying there, campers included. All of these cooking areas have a gas-powered cooktops, many have pots/pans, and some have dishes and cutlery. It isn’t necessary to bring your own stove and fuel, but many people choose to do so, as the cooking areas can get crowded. If planning to self-cater regularly, you’ll probably want to bring your own pot and bowl/utensils, since those aren’t provided at most places. Also, you’ll need to bring your own lighter to ignite the stoves. 

All of the refuges provide potable water (usually from a tap labeled “source”).  It is generally safe to drink, and most hikers choose to do so without filtration. There are some water sources along the trail, but they are not always at regular intervals, they’re not on every stage, and many are season-dependent. Some of these require filtration, due to the proximity of livestock (Corsican cows are amazing hikers and you’ll see them in shockingly high places!) Our advice would be to fill up at the refuges before setting out and carry enough water for the entire day (2-4 liters, depending on stage length, heat, and personal preference).

Cheese, bread, and coffee on the GR20

GR20 Accommodation

You’ll have a range of lodging options along the GR20, although most will be at the PNRC-run refuges and nearly all will be “rustic” at best. We’ve outlined what you can expect from each option below. 

Sleeping Indoors

If you prefer not to camp along the GR20, you’ll spend most of your nights in the park-run mountain huts (or refuges). These offer basic, dorm-style accommodation. Beds are provided, but you’ll need your own sleeping bag and pillow. All offer an evening meal and basic breakfast for an additional charge. The refuges vary in terms of their amenities; some refuges have hot showers, proper toilets, and electronics charging, while others have only a couple of cold showers and squat toilets.  Refuges can be reserved through this website . 

View of Refuge d' I Paliri.

In addition to the PNRC Refuges, there are some privately-owned bergeries along the GR20. These are quite similar to the refuges in that they offer basic dorm-style accommodation and the option for half-pension (dinner and breakfast). 

Auberge U Vallone

There are a few opportunities to stay in hotels while hiking the GR20, typically these opportunities arise when the trail brings you closer to civilization. These hotels offer the typical amenities you’d expect from this level of lodging, such as hot showers, private bathrooms, bedding and towels, and WiFi. 

View of a room at Casa Alta Hotel in Vizzavona.

Sleeping Outdoors

Renting a tent.

Many GR20 hikers choose to stay in the “hire tents” that are available for rent at all of the refuges and most bergeries . This option costs less than sleeping in dorms, but more than camping with your own tent. Hire tents are typically the Quechua pop-up style for two or three people, and include a sleeping pad or mattress. They offer a good option for those who want the perks of camping (more privacy, less risk of bedbugs) without having to carry all of the gear. While you can reserve a place in a hire tent ahead of time , you cannot reserve a specific tent. The tents vary quite a bit in terms of location within the camping area, levelness of the pitch, and general niceness. Get there early to have your pick of the best tents. 

Hire tents at Refuge de Petra Piana

Carrying a tent

Carrying your own tent will cost you the least and give you the most flexibility . Wild camping is forbidden on the GR20 (with the exception of one designated spot between Refuges d’Usciolu and Refuge d’Asinau). However, you can pitch your tent outside all of the refuges along the route, and most of the bergeries and gites allow camping as well. Campers have access to all of the facilities at the refuges, including the toilets, showers, cooking areas, and meals. Carrying your own tent is the only accommodation option that does not require advance reservations. That being said, in the busy season you’ll still want to arrive at the campground early to snag a good spot. All of the camping pitches are definitely not created equal! Many pitches are uneven, rocky, and quite far from the facilities, and the campgrounds can get very full by about 4:00pm. If you’re considering carrying a tent, you’ll want to carefully weigh the benefits of added comfort and flexibility versus the added weight in your pack. 

Tent at Refuge d' I Paliri

A few other things you should know about GR20 accommodation:

Reservations.

The GR20 is an extremely popular trail with limited accommodation options. Unless you are hiking very early or very late in the season, you can expect the refuges and campgrounds to be full at every stage of your hike . Hikers with their own tent do not need reservations (and we wouldn’t recommend making them), but all others- those using hire tents, those staying in dorms, and those staying in hotels- must make advance bookings.

Bookings can be made online at the Parc Naturel Regional de Corse (PNRC) website and need to be paid in full to be confirmed. Wardens at the refuges expect you to print your reservation and present it upon arrival . If you need to change your reservation, you’ll need to call or email the PNRC using the information provided on your booking receipt. Reservations can be cancelled within 15 days of the initial booking date for a full refund. 

Other Important Information:

– You need to provide your own toilet paper . Some refuges sell it, but it is not available everywhere. It pays to be prepared! 

-Toilets, showers, and dormitories are almost always mixed gender . 

– Bedbugs are a common problem in the refuges. Bring bedbug spray and be vigilant. 

Click here to reserve GR20 Refuges

Sunrise on the GR20

GR20 Logistics

Corsica is known for a lot of great things, such as its mountains and beaches, but not necessarily for its well-connected, timely, easy-to-navigate transportation system. However, it is certainly possible to get to and from the GR20 without too many headaches, provided that you plan ahead and give yourself enough time . Check out our logistics article for all of the details.  

The GR20 is extremely well-marked with red and white paint flashes every 20 feet or so. Keep a close eye out for markers, as sometimes the trail heads in seemingly improbable directions! The markers show you the easiest way up or down, so follow them closely, especially when scrambling . If you choose to take one of the many alternate route options, you can expect these trails to be less well-marked. We recommend carrying a map at all times and using a GPS.

Want an interactive map at your fingertips while you hike?  Be sure to check out our GR20 GPS Digital Download . You’ll get GPS files for the entire route that you can save to your phone for easy navigation!

You can even use it without data or cell service!

Red and white trail marker.

Money on the GR20

The most important thing you need to know here is that the GR20 is pretty much a cash-only economy . There are no ATMs along the route , not even in Calenzana and Conca at the endpoints, nor in Vizzavona at the midpoint. Therefore, it will be essential for you to estimate your expected daily costs (food and lodging), plus some cushion for transportation and other miscellaneous or unplanned items. Multiply your daily costs by how long you plan to be on the trail, again factoring in some cushion for rest days, bad weather, and your time in Calenzana and Conca. If you make reservations for refuges or hire tents, you will have paid in full for this accommodation ahead of time and won’t need to carry quite as much money.

A small number of places accept credit cards, (such as the campground shop in Vizzavona and many of the hotels) and you might be lucky enough to get cash back in a pinch. In general, things are relatively expensive in Corsica, especially along the trail . Check out our How Much It Cost Us to Hike the GR20 article for more on what you can expect to pay. 

Cows near a tent at Refuge de Manganu.

What to Pack for the GR20

For a full packing list and detailed gear advice, check out our GR20 Packing article!

Deciding what to pack (and not pack) for the GR20 is one of the most crucial steps in preparing for a successful trek. The trail demands that you pull yourself up chains on sheer rock faces, squeeze through awkward gullies, and ascend and descend endless scree slopes.  Trust us, this is hard enough without a big, bulky backpack throwing off your center of balance and increasing your overall exertion …no need to make it any harder than it has to be! The good news is, with a little strategic planning you can minimize your pack size while still having everything you need , and you don’t need to go out and buy all of the fanciest lightweight gear to do so.

A few of our top tips:

  • Only carry 1-2 days’ worth of food , since provisions can be purchased at every refuge.
  • Unless you are a passionate photographer, leave your bulky camera at home . Most smartphones take excellent pictures. Plus, you won’t have many chances to recharge a camera battery. 
  • Only pack clothes that you absolutely need . Two shirts will be plenty, as you can rinse them out and dry them in the sun quite easily. 
  • You can cook at the refuges, so you don’t need to carry much stove fuel (if any).
  • Bring trekking poles . They are invaluable on many of the steeper sections. 
  • Many hotels will let you store extra luggage if you have an upcoming reservation with them. 
  • Either hiking boots or trail runners will work , just make sure they are comfortable and supportive.  They should be broken in a little, but otherwise fairly new (the gnarly GR20 trail conditions put a lot of wear and tear on shoes). 

Hikers on a steep trail.

Click here to see the comprehensive packing article.

Some of the refuges and other accommodations along the GR20 will allow you to charge your electronics, but there is a lot of variation from place to place . Many refuges require a small payment for charging (typically €2) and will only allow you to charge your phone (not your smartwatch, camera, etc). Others will do it for free and allow you unlimited access to plug in whatever you want. Still others only provide charging during a set time in the afternoon, due to the fact that they rely on solar. We’ve noted the availability of device charging within each stage of this guide. If you plan on using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing a battery backup or portable solar panel.  

Cell Phone Service

Cell phone service is unreliable along the GR20. You might get signal at the high points on the trail and at some of the accommodations that are close to a road or town.   WiFi is even less common ; you’re only likely to find it at a few of the fancier hotels along the route. 

The Hiiker app allows you to download maps and information for offline use. This can be so valuable when you are far from civilization!

Cell phones charging

A Stage-by-Stage Guide

Below you’ll find a brief description of every stage of the GR20 in terms of the accommodation options and services you can expect to find there. This guide is written for the typical north to south direction, but could easily be reversed.

Prices for accommodation at the PNRC Refuges are as follows:

  • Dorm Bed: € 15 per person
  • Hire Tent: € 11 per tent, plus €7 per person
  • Camping (bivouac) in personal tent: €7 per person

These prices are the same at every PNRC refuge , and therefore we haven’t listed prices for each individual refuge. For all other accommodations, prices have been noted in the guide whenever possible or links are provided fo r the most up-to-date information. 

Stage Zero: Calenzana

We strongly recommend that you stay in Calenzana the night before starting your hike , as it’s essential to get an early start on stage one. Calenzana is a pretty town with a good range of accommodation options and services available. If you absolutely don’t want to spend a night in Calenzana, you could stay in Calvi and arrange an early taxi to the trailhead the next morning. 

Accommodation in Calenzana:

  • Dorm beds and camping are available at the Gite d’Etape Communal on the edge of town. Contact them at 04 95 62 77 13 or [email protected] for reservations and prices. 
  • Hotel Bel Horizon and the Chambres d’Hote L’Ombre du Clocher offer hotel accommodation in a more central location. Expect to pay around €150 for a room at either hotel.  
  • There are also a few AirBnBs available in town which offer nice apartments for a reasonable price. 

Services in Calenzana

There is a Spar Supermarket in town which sells  a wide range of items, including stove fuel. A bus operated by Beaux Voyages which runs between Calenzana and Calvi, although it’s pretty infrequent (once or twice daily, depending on the time of year). There are several restaurants and bars in town offering everything from casual pizzas to hearty Corsican fare. A post office is located in the center of the village. Keep in mind that there is no ATM in Calenzana . 

A street in Calenzana, Corsica.

Stage One: Calenzana to Refuge d’Ortu di u Piobbu

In his Cicerone Guide , author Paddy Dillon describes this first stage of the GR20 as a “baptism of fire” Personally, we think this is a little dramatic, but it’s certainly no cakewalk. Regardless of how tough your first day on the trail feels, you’ll be thrilled to get to Refuge d’Ortu di u Piobbu. With its friendly warden and sweeping sea views, it is the perfect introduction to your GR20 experience . When we hiked in 2019 the refuge building had recently burned down, but they were still providing a wide range of services and accommodation was available in hire tents (no dormitory though). There are many good, flat campsites available, most of which are on hard-packed dirt. 

Hire tents, camping, warm(ish) showers, composting toilets, sinks, potable water available from a spring a few hundred yards down the trail, a small shop, a-la-carte food items (omelettes, charcuterie, sandwiches, etc) available until dinnertime, electronics charging possible (ask the warden), cell phone service, picnic tables. 

Sunset at Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu

Stage Two: Refuge d’Ortu di u Piobbu to Refuge de Carozzu

PNRC Refuge de Carozzu is tucked into the woods in a way that gives it summer camp vibes . The refuge has a dormitory with 36 beds, as well as a kitchen and dining room. There are camping pitches in an open area next to the refuge, as well as dotted in the surrounding trees in every direction from the refuge. Keep in mind that the campground can get very crowded, making it difficult to find a good spot. The warden doesn’t arrive until 3:00pm, so if you get there earlier you can pitch your tent (or grab a hire tent) and pay later . There is a lovely terrace in front of the refuge with lots of picnic tables for enjoying the amazing views down the forested valley. 

Dormitory, hire tents, camping, composting toilets, cold showers (available after 3pm), potable water, shop with very limited offerings, a-la-carte food items available all day, indoor kitchen, outdoor cooking area, sinks, clotheslines, picnic tables. 

Sunset at Refuge de Carozzu

Stage Three: Refuge de Carozzu to Ascu Stagnu

Many hikers approach stage three with a sense of trepidation, as the trail requires the crossing of the Spasimata Slabs (nicknamed the “slabs of doom” by some hikers). These large, tilted rock slabs are set in a dramatic gorge, and they are fitted with chains and cables to aid crossing in some places. You can relax though; in dry conditions, especially when traveling uphill, they really aren’t scary at all and the surrounding gorge is seriously beautiful!

In any case, you’ll have earned a bit of luxury by the end of stage three, and that’s what you’ll get when you reach the Ascu Stagnu ski area (also known as Haute Asco) . What it lacks in prettiness, it makes up for in services. In addition to the 32 dorm beds in the PNRC refuge , hikers can also stay in the Hotel le Chalet (€100 for a double room) or in a dorm bed in the hotel-run gite d’etape (€45 for half pension). Campers will have tons of good pitches to choose from. If camping, you can pay at the PNRC refuge and use its facilities. 

All of the accommodation options offer indoor flush toilets, sinks with hot water, hot showers, and electronics charging . The refuge has a well-stocked shop, provides meals, and sells snacks, drinks, and charcuterie. It has a nice indoor kitchen with a wide assortment of pots, pans, dishes, and cutlery available, plus a large indoor dining room and some outdoor terrace seating. The refuge also has an outdoor cooking area and clothesline. There is a casual snack bar across the parking lot from the refuge which sells hot meals, drinks, and ice cream. There’s also a fancier restaurant and bar attached to the hotel. Transportation to the town Ponte Leccia can be arranged and laundry services are also available. 

PNRC Refuge at Haute Asco

Stage Four: Ascu Stagnu to Auberge U Vallone or Refuge de Tighjettu

You’ll have two choices for your accommodation on stage four . The first option you’ll come across is the PNRC Refuge de Tighjettu , located on a hillside with big valley views. This is a good option if you want to stop a bit earlier (this stage is one of the longest and most difficult of the entire trek) or if you like the predictability of the PNRC Refuges. Tighjettu is also a bit less expensive than your other option, the Auberge U Vallone . If you continue another 30 minutes on the trail past Tighjettu, you’ll reach the privately-run Auberge. In all honesty, the place is a little odd, but the gorgeous views from the terrace, easy access to perfect rock pools, and piping hot showers more than compensate for its quirks. 

Services at Tighjettu:

Dorm beds, hire tents,camping, showers (sometimes warm), toilets, indoor kitchen and dining area, potable water, small shop, meals, sinks. 

Services at Vallone:

Hire tents and camping. Hot showers, flush toilets, terrace, potable water, electronics charging, very limited shop, restaurant, camping and hire tents available. There is no cooking area here, and camping costs €8.5o per person (if carrying your own tent). Reservations for hire tents can be made on their website . 

Pointe des Eboulis

Stage Five: Auberge U Vallone to Hotel Castel di Vergio

The Hotel Castel di Vergio is another example of a stop along the GR20 that you might just fall in love with, certainly not because of the natural beauty of its surroundings (there’s not much of that), but because of the little luxuries you’ll enjoy there. Due to its roadside location, the hotel shop is one of the best along the entire GR20 route , stocked with everything from duct tape and batteries to fresh produce and warm bread. The camping area is one of the few along the route that has nice soft grass (instead of hard packed dirt) on which to pitch one’s tent. It’s the little things in life, right? 

Hot showers, electronics charging, cell service, flush toilets, sinks, potable water (available from the cooking area sink),  well-stocked shop, and a bar and restaurant located in the nearby hotel. Camping (€7 per person) is available for those with their own tents, but there are no hire tents for rent. Lodging is available in the hotel (€100 for a double room) or in dorms in the gite (€20 per person). Both campers and those staying in the gite have the option for half pension. A complete list of prices and booking information can be found here . 

The well stocked shop at Hotel Castel di Vergio

Stage Six: Hotel Castel di Vergio to Refuge de Manganu

After the challenges of the first five stages, stage six is a welcome and relaxing change of pace. The hiking is capped off perfectly by a stay at the PNRC Refuge du Manganu. This small refuge is located on a scenic rocky outcrop and enjoys tranquil views of the valley below. There is a dorm with 21 beds, plus many hire tents and camping pitches scattered around the refuge. Despite its sprawling size, it can still get quite crowded and lines for the sinks and toilets are pretty common. Manganu has a fun and lively atmosphere- hikers gather on the rocks to drink beers and enjoy the views or to take a dip in the picture perfect rock pool below the refuge . 

Dorm beds, hire tents, camping, composting toilets, sinks, potable water, electronics charging (€2), hot showers (€2 for six minutes), outdoor cooking area, a-la-carte snacks available all day, meals, and a shop with limited provisions for sale. 

Trekkers sitting on rocks at Refuge de Manganu.

Stage Seven: Refuge de Manganu to Refuge Petra Piana

PNRC Refuge Petra Piana gets a bad rep for its cold, cloudy, inhospitable location. In fact, many trekkers choose to double-up on stages and continue all the way to Refuge L’Onda in order to avoid staying at Petra Piana. It’s true that Petra Piana is often shrouded in layer of chilly fog, but it’s a charming spot nonetheless. The tiny refuge houses a small dorm and a cozy kitchen with a couple of picnic tables where hikers can gather to enjoy the warmth and camaraderie . If you decide to keep hiking instead of stopping at Petra Piana, be aware that there is no lodging available until you reach Refuge de l’Onda . Many trekkers mistakenly think they can stay at one of the bergeries along the way to L’Onda and end up setting themselves up for a much longer day than they anticipated. 

Dormitory, hire tents, camping, squat toilets, sink, hot showers (€2 for six minutes), meals, small shop, well-stocked indoor kitchen, and potable water. No electronics charging. Credit cards may be accepted here. 

Kitchen at Refuge de Petra Piana.

Stage Eight: Refuge de Petra Piana to Refuge L’Onda

The setting for Refuge L’Onda couldn’t be more different than that of Petra Piana. Instead of the high, misty mountain top location of the previous stage, L’Onda sits down in a sunny, pastoral valley. There is a PNRC refuge up the hill, but most hikers choose to camp down in the valley next to the Bergeries L’Onda . In fact, unless you took the high-level variant to get there, you probably won’t even get close to the actual refuge. If you do intend to stay in the refuge, make sure to inquire ahead of time as it isn’t always open. If camping, hire tents are available, as well as grassy (though not super flat) pitches for those with their own tents. While you are technically camping at the bergeries, everything runs the same as at the PNRC campsites and prices are identical. Insider tip: though not immediately obvious, there are some lovely rock pools nearby, perfect for cooling off after a hot day on the trail! 

The campsite next to the Bergeries has squat toilets, sinks, a cooking area with pots, pans, and dishware, showers (€2 for hot water, free if cold), lots of picnic tables, and a clothesline. The bergeries sells a la carte items all day, plus meals, and it offers a decent selection of provisions at its shop. The refuge has a small dormitory, kitchen, toilets, and showers. 

Mountain views on Stage 8 of the GR20

Stage Nine: Refuge L’Onda to Vizzavona

This is an exciting stage! In reaching Vizzavona, you’ll be marking the halfway point of the GR20 . Better yet, you’ll get to celebrate this achievement with all of the luxuries that Vizzavona has to offer. In reality, Vizzanona is a tiny town with just a few hotels, restaurants, and a train station, but it is nevertheless a great place to spend the night or even take a rest day if you have the time. There is a range of accommodation available, from dirtbag to deluxe, but all options offer hot showers and electronics charging (things you’ll want at this point in the trek, trust us). With the exception of the campground, most places also provide WiFi , and many of the hotels offer a laundry service . 

Hire tents, pitches, and dorm beds in a small gite are available at the L’Alzarella campsite on the edge of town. This campground has electronics charging, hot showers (€2.50), clothesline, sinks, toilets, a cooking area, and probably the best stocked shop on the entire GR20. It also accepts credit cards. The campground doesn’t take advance bookings, except for large groups. Camping costs €7.50 per person for campers with their own tents. 

If you want to sleep indoors without spending a fortune, you have a couple of dorm-style accommodations to choose from. There is a refuge at the Bar Restaurant de la Gare , as well as at the Hotel Restaurant I Laricci (no website available) . Expect to pay around €20 for either of these options. 

For a little bit of luxury, we recommend staying at the Casa Alta B&B . The friendly owners go out of their way to make your stay special, the wooded setting is tranquil and beautiful, and the breakfast is ridiculously good.  Another upscale option is the Hotel U Castellu . 

There is also more lodging available in La Foce , which can be accessed by taking a shortcut before reaching Vizzavona. 

Rocky descent with red and white trail markers.

Stage 10: Vizzavona to Bergeries d’E Capanelle

There are a few options for accommodation at this stage of the trek, although it can be a little tricky to figure out what they are. Upon arriving from the north, you’ll first come across the Gite d’Etape U Fagone (which also calls itself the Gite de Capanelle). This is the most convenient and popular place to spend the night. There are beds available in small chalets and large dormitories, plus hire tents and pitches available (although space is very limited).

Just above the gite, you’ll find the very small, very basic PNRC Refuge d’E Capanelle . This unstaffed refuge costs less than the other PNRC refuges, and can be paid for in the gite. Our guidebook said that free camping is permitted outside the refuge, but we found that to be false when we stayed there. All campers were required to pay at the gite. You can also travel up the road to reach the Gite d’Etape U Renosu , which has a few small dormitories and a camping area.

Services at Gite d’Etape U Fagone:

Hot showers, flush toilets, sinks, potable water, clothesline, restaurant serving al-la-carte items all day, meals, well-stocked shop, washing room, cell service, shady terrace with sea views.  It costs €7 per person for camping, €10 per person for a hire tent, and €39 per person for half-pension in the gite. Reservations can be made on their website . 

Services at Refuge d’E Capanelle:

Basic cooking area, picnic table, bunk beds. You’ll need to walk down to the gite to access toilets, water, and showers. Those camping outside the gite can use the cooking facilities in the refuge. 

Services at Gite d’Etape U Renosu:

trek gr20 corse

Stage Eleven: E’Capanelle to Bocca di Verdi or Refuge de Prati

You’ll need to choose between two different accommodations at the end of stage eleven. There are a few factors to consider when deciding where to spend the night . First, it will depend on whether you take the classic low-level route on stage eleven or if you decide to tackle the high-level variant and the ascent of Monte Renosu. The high-level route is much longer and more challenging than the rather mellow low-level route. Therefore, if you took the classic low-level path on stage eleven, you might want to keep going past Bocca di Verdi to reach Refuge de Prati (another two hours uphill) to get a head start on the long day that awaits you on stage twelve.

Alternatively, if you took the high-level route, you will likely be more than ready to stop at Refuge Bocca di Verdi (Also known as Relais San Petru di Verde) rather than face another two hours of tough climbing after an already long and strenuous day. The other factor to consider is the nature of the facilities at each accommodation option. Refuge de Prati is a PNRC Refuge. Therefore, you can expect basic facilities and the usual prices. On the other hand, Bocca di Verdi is privately-run and provides much nicer facilities at a slightly higher cost ( € 8 per person for camping). 

Services at Refuge de Prati:

Dormitory, large camping area with grassy pitches, hire tents, squat toilets, basic cold shower, meals, very limited shop, potable water. 

Services at Bocca di Verdi :

Flush toilets (with toilet paper provided- a rare sight on the GR20!), hot showers, restaurant, meals, picnic tables, sinks, clothesline, potable water, small shop, cell phone service. Campers can use the kitchen in the main refuge building. Camping costs €8 per person and it’s about €40 per person for half-pension in the refuge.  Beware of the aggressive pigs that wander the campsite in search of food! More information can be found on their website . 

Picnic tables outside the Relais San Petru di Verdi

Stage Twelve: Bocca di Verdi or Refuge de Prati to Refuge d’Usciolu

Those who claim the entire southern half of the GR20 is “easy” obviously haven’t completed stage twelve. Make no mistake, it is a big day and it’s even bigger if you started at Bocca di Verdi! Don’t worry though, you’ll have a real treat awaiting you at the PNRC Refuge d’Usciolu.  This refuge and its charismatic warden are GR20 legends, and rightfully so . The shop is downright magical, offering a dazzling array of provisions and tasty treats from a tiny shack. The refuge itself boasts an equally magical setting, perched impossibly on a rocky hillside. The only downside of such a setting for campers is that they’ll find themselves hiking a long way up and down that steep rocky hillside to get from their tent pitch to the refuge and its facilities. 

Dormitory, hire tents, camping pitches, composting toilets, cold showers, sinks for washing up, potable water, clothesline, outdoor cooking area, terrace with picnic tables, restaurant serving a-la-carte items, meals, amazing shop, electronics charging (ask the warden). 

Tents on the hillside at Refuge d'Uscoilu.

Stage Thirteen: Refuge d’Usciolu to Refuge de Matalza or Bergerie d’ I Croci

Here’s another stage where hikers will yet again be faced with several  choices. The official GR20 route is broken up into two stages before it reaches Refuge d’Asinau, with Matalza as the first stopping point and Refuge d’Asinau on the following day. However, for those moving at a faster pace it’s possible to take an alternate trail directly from Refuge d’Usciolu to Refuge d’Asinau, effectively cutting out an entire day of hiking . If you opt to stick to the traditional path, you’ll still come across three options for accommodation. First, you’ll pass the Bergeries de Basetta . Keep in mind that if you choose to stop here, you’re in for a very short day with a significantly longer one the following day. Next, you’ll pass the privately-run  Refuge de Matalza , which offers a small dorm and camping area. It doesn’t boast the high mountain vistas of some GR20 refuges, but the friendly warden and peaceful pastoral setting more than make up for it. Finally, if you walk another hour along the trail, you’ll reach the privately-owned Bergerie d’ I Croci . The benefits of pushing on to I Croci are the slightly more luxurious accommodations and head start the following day. 

Services at Bergeries de Basetta:

Cabins, dormitory/dortoir, camping pitches, hire tents, well-stocked shop, restaurant, and transport off-trail. Camping is € 10 for two people with their own tent, half pension in the dortoir is € 38.50 per person, and it’s € 43.50 per person for half-pension in a cabin. Reservations can be made at  06.27.25.95.33 o4 [email protected]

Services at Refuge de Matalza:

Dormitory, hire tents, camping pitches, toilets, sink, potable water, clothesline, lounge chairs, shady terrace, warm showers (much nicer than they look!), decent shop offerings, electronics charging for a set time period in the afternoon, and a cooking area. More information is available on their website.  

Services at Bergerie d’ I Croci :

Dormitories, camping pitches, toilets, hot showers, potable water, restaurant, small shop, meals, transport to the town of Zicavo. Camping is €6 per person,  and it costs €10 per person for a bed in the dormitory. Reservations can be made by calling  06 75 49 60 59 and 09 82 12 33 10 and more information is available on their website . 

Showers at Refuge de Matalza.

Stage Fourteen: Refuge de Matalza to Refuge d’Asinau

After being destroyed by a fire a few years back, PNRC Refuge d’Asinau has recently been rebuilt and it’s quite cozy and tidy inside. It has a small dormitory, with space for camping both on the hillside behind the refuge and down below the front of the refuge (many people don’t realize there are pitches down there so you might score something really good!). This is another one of those places where your hiking never really ends for the day, as there’s a long, stony walk to get to the bathrooms and showers. Views from the terrace are wonderful. 

Dormitory, hire tents, camping pitches, composting toilets, potable water, cold showers, very limited shop, meals, electronics charging ( € 2). 

A rocky trail winds gently uphill on stage 14 of the GR20.

Stage Fifteen: Refuge d’Asinau to Village de Bavella or Refuge d’I Paliri

Stage fifteen officially ends at Village de Bavella , but if you’re camping, or if you want one last night at a (very beautiful!) PNRC Refuge, or if you want to get a head start on long final stage to Conca, you should keep hiking for about two more hours to the PNRC Refuge d’I Paliri . On the other hand, if you want to spend your last night on the GR20 in a more luxurious fashion, you’ll have your pick of gites and restaurants at Village de Bavella. It’s your final trail decision… it’s Conca or bust tomorrow! 

Services at Village de Bavella:

Dorm beds are available either at Les Aiguilles de Bavella ( €34 for half pension) or the Auberge du Col de Bavella (€ 45  for half pension) . Both of these establishments also have restaurants. There is a well-stocked shop across the road from the Auberge du Col de Bavella. Bus and taxi services can be accessed from Village de Bavella. 

Services at Refuge d’I Paliri:

Small dormitories, hire tents, camping pitches, squat toilets, showers (cold, very basic, and a loooong hike from camp-not recommended!), potable water (also need to hike down the trail for this), stunning views of rugged mountains and the sea in the distance, sinks, indoor and outdoor cooking areas, small shop, meals, and electronics charging ( € 2).  

Views of a sheer rock face from Refuge d'I Paliri

Stage Sixteen: Village de Bavella or Refuge d’I Paliri to Conca

You did it! Upon reaching Conca, we sincerely hope you beeline to the first establishment that will sell you a cold beer (FYI-that place is called Bar le Soleil Levant) and toast to your amazing accomplishment. The GR20 is a seriously challenging hike, both mentally and physically, and those who complete it have really achieved something special. Once you’ve enjoyed a celebratory cold one with your fellow badass hikers, you’ll need to think about moving on. If you want to leave Conca that same day, the Bar le Soleil Levant and the Gite d’Etape La Tonnelle offer shuttle services to Sainte Lucie de Porto Vecchio, where you can catch buses to Bastia, Ajaccio, or Porto Vecchio. You may be able to arrange direct service to Porto Vecchio (instead of transferring at Sainte Lucie) as well. 

If you want to spend the night in Conca , we think that you’ll find it to be quite a nice little town. You can either stay at the more upscale Hotel San Pasquale (around € 90 for a double room) or the budget-friendly Gite d’Etape La Tonnelle , which has rooms for 2-5 people and a 7-person dorm ( €40 per person for half-pension) ,and camping ( €7 per person) . Hire tents are also available for € 14 per person. 

Services at Conca:

Both the Hotel and Gite have restaurants . There are two small shops in town, as well as a post office . The gite and the hotel also offer a laundry service . You can arrange transport to Sainte Lucie de Porto Vecchio through the gite. 

Views over the mountains towards the sea on stage 16 of the GR20.

We hope the information in this guide leaves you feeling confident and prepared to tackle the GR20 , one of the world’s finest treks. Be sure to check out all of our awesome GR20 resources , and as always, post your questions and feedback in the comments below. Happy trails! 

 Looking down on Lac du Melo from above.

Check out all of our great GR20 resources:

  • GR20 Packing List: Make sure you’ve got everything you need! 
  • How Much it Cost Us to Hike the GR20: A helpful and detailed budgeting resource. 
  • GR20 Maps: Custom maps and elevation profiles to ensure you’re prepared for your trek.
  • Trip Report: The GR20 Nord-An honest account of our experiences on the notorious northern half of the GR20. 
  • Trip Report: The GR20 Sud-Know what to expect on the southern section of your trek. 
  • GR20 Logistics: Don’t forget the small details!
  • The GR20: How Difficult Is It? Find out if it’s right for you.
  • How to Train for the GR20: Get in shape for your adventure!
  • 10 Essentials for the GR20: The very best advice!

11 thoughts on “The Ultimate Guide to the GR20 ”

Best GR20 guide I’ve read so far! Thanks a lot!

Thanks so much for your comment! We’re happy to hear that you’re enjoying the guide. Let us know if you have any questions-we’d love to help!

Happy trails, Emily & Ian

I am so glad I came across this blog while searching for gps files for GR20. Thank you so much for such a detailed guide.

I just have a few questions: – do you need to bring winter clothes for this hike if one is hiking in the summer? – I have looked at the website to reserve the refuge but it seems like everything is full in June and July. Would you happen to know if it is not open yet or is it actually full already? When did you reserve your accommodations before your hike? I have sent the park an email.

I really appreciate your work.

Thanks again.

Hi there! We’re so happy to hear that you are finding the guide to be useful. To answer your questions:

-You don’t need full winter gear in peak summer months, but it can get quite chilly at night, in the early mornings, and at some of the high points of the trail. Long pants, warm socks, and a down jacket (or something similarly warm and lightweight) are all recommended.

-Although it’s not well-communicated, the refuge reservation system has historically opened in mid-February. It’s good that you emailed, and you may want to follow up again in February if you don’t hear back. In the meantime, keep checking back from time to time! We didn’t have to worry about reservations, as we carried our own tent, but if you want to rent a tent or stay indoors, you’ll need to book in advance. Don’t forget to print your reservations and bring them with you to show the warden upon arrival.

Hope you have a great hike! The GR20 is incredible!

Apologies if I missed this, but where would you suggest doubling up days if you want to do it in less than 16 days? At the start you say it takes 12-15 days, but some like to give themselves 16 to allow flexibility to take a rest day, but your suggested itinerary is 16 days with no rest days. I have 15 days, so ideally I would like to double up 2 days and give myself flexibility for 1 rest day if needed.

Kind of an outside question, but you have any opinion on how this compares to the TMB in terms of difficulty? The GR20 looks to be a similar distance and elevation change, but the suggested length is longer. I would guess this is due to the poor path conditions. I finished the TMB in 9 days, compared to the suggested 11 days in your guide, so I think reducing the length here somewhat would be possible.

Although I definitely agree it’s best to take longer, in both instances (TMB/GR20) I have to try and reduce time due to holiday constraints!

Thank you for your guides, they really are a life saver for those of us that prefer to camp!

Hi Thomas, Here’s what we would recommend for completing the GR20 in 14 days of hiking (plus one rest day): -Combine Stages 8 and 9 (Hike from Petra Piana all the way Vizzavona) -Take Alternate Stage 13/14 (Hike from Refuge d’Uscioulu to Refuge d’Asinau, cutting out a stay at Matalza)

That being said, make sure you a take a good look at the distance and challenge of these stages, as it will make for some LONG days.

Compared to the TMB, the GR20 is significantly more difficult. There’s a good amount of scrambling involved on the GR20. This can really slow the pace at which you travel and it can be tiring. I’d say the climbs are definitely a bit steeper and more strenuous. If completing the TMB in 9 days felt manageable for you, I think you’ll be just fine on the GR20, just be prepared for some long days.

Let us know if you have any other questions. We hope you have an incredible trip. The GR20 is fantastic!

If there’s bad weather at any point along the trail, can you easily change the dates of your reservations for dorm beds?

Hi Maya, It is possible to change your reservations, but it depends on when you’ll be hiking and how much availability the refuges have. In busy times, the refuges typically sell out every night and might not be able to accommodate your changes. However, if bad weather impacts other hikers, spaces might open up. Sometimes they will be able to offer you a hire tent in the event that there are no open dorm beds. If you’re able to contact them ahead of time, you can call or email the PNRC reservation system using the information below:

By phone: +33 (0) 4 20 06 12 00 or +33 (0) 4 95 51 79 06 (Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1.30 p.m. to 5 p.m.) By email: [email protected]

Alternatively, try to arrive to the refuge as early in the day as possible and ask the warden what is available.

I hope that helps. Wishing you a great hike!

Hi. Very informative blog. Excellent!! Will the ALL the huts be staffed and offering food from 03 June 2024 please? I have searched on the NPR website but no information. I emailed them but no reply yet? I wish to avoid the crowds and the heat. Many thanks James

Hi James, Thanks for your comment and we’re so happy you’re finding helpful info on our site. The refuges typically begin being staffed at the end of May or start of June, so you should be okay. However, it’s best to confirm this with PNR. Bookings usually open on the website sometime in January, and once you can see the booking calendar you’ll be able to see when they are staffed. I hope that helps!

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trek gr20 corse

We’re Emily and Ian, outdoor lovers and trip planning nerds who live in Boulder, Colorado. We’ve explored over 30 countries, mostly on two feet or two wheels. When we’re not adventuring abroad, we spend our time enjoying the amazing camping, hiking, and biking destinations in our home state of Colorado. Learn More About Us

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Trekking the Full GR20 in Corsica

June through October

Bastia, Corsica is 2 hours away

Hotels, camps & refuges

Things to know

The infamous GR20 is often regarded as the toughest trek in Europe—are you sure you’re up to the task? This 180-kilometer trail (110 miles) meanders across the jagged spine of Corsica’s mountains, revealing spectacular scenery, million-dollar views, and your unrelenting spirit. Scrambling, exposed sections, steep drops, chain and wire-assisted climbs—the GR20 will keep testing your limits over two weeks of long and challenging days. Having a professional International Mountain Guide by your side means having an extra degree of safety, detouring to unparalleled gems that most hikers miss out on, and getting the best possible accommodation. Ready to traverse this mythical long-distance trail reserved only for the boldest ones?

Abundant vegetation, incredible scenery, and stunning wildlife throughout

Enjoy a carefully selected assortment of hotels, gîtes, camping spots, and refuges

Attracting people from all over the world, finishing the GR20 is a huge feat for any thru-hiker

trek gr20 corse

Conquer steep ascents and plunging descents on this 180-km trail that follows the granite backbone of mountains that divide the island in two—many of which soar above 2,000 m above sea. Join your guide on the mighty GR20 trek from the north-west to the south-east of the island, starting your tour in the beautiful Calvi! This challenging adventure also includes luggage transfers, most meals (all breakfasts and lunches, most dinners) and a selection of the best accommodation available, providing you with all the comfort along the way.

Your trip begins in the seaside town of Calvi—you can either fly in to Calvi or Bastia Airport. If you arrive at Bastia Airport anytime prior to 3 pm on Day 1, a two-hour group minibus transfer will take you to the seaside town of Calvi. Alternatively, you can also land in Calvi Airport if possible. Use the afternoon to either explore the lovely town of Calvi or go for a dip in the sea.

Accommodation: 3* hotel

Note : Feel free to fly in a day prior to your adventure—the choice of flights might be better and you can overnight in Bastia or Calvi the evening before Day 1. Your guide can gladly recommend accommodation for the night!

Calvi city in Corsica

Take a short taxi journey to the village of Calenzana, the official starting point of the GR20. Today you have a shorter day, which is an excellent warm-up for the journey ahead, and it also provides you with fantastic views of the coast and surrounding villages. You can bathe in rock pools before tackling the final climb to Bonifatu.

Accommodation: Gîte Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Hiking: 5 hours Elevation change: +800 m / +2,625 ft | -540 m / -1,772 ft

Calenzana in Corsica

An early start today brings you to a climb up the Cirque de Bonifatu, sheltered from the sun by lush woods. Once you reach the Carrozzu refuge, take a breather before tackling the famous Spasimata footbridge—a 30-meter long bridge hanging above a waterfall! Then grab onto the fixed cables and chains and work your way up the Spasimata slabs to arrive at the Muvrella (Corsican for mouflon) valley. You might even spot some mouflons! After Lac de Muvrella, a steep climb takes you to the Bocca di a Muvrella (2,000 m), followed by a short, but difficult section to your second pass, the Bocca di Stagnu (2,010 m). From here you can see the western coastline along with the mountains that guard the entrance to the Cirque de la Solitude. Tackle a very steep, partly scrambly descent down to the old ski station of Haut Asco (1,422 m).

Accommodation: Hotel Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Hiking: 9 hours Elevation   change: +1,480 m / +4,855 ft | -600 m / -1,968 ft

Spasimata bridge in Corsica

Following a huge landslide in 2015, today’s route no longer takes the Cirque de la Solitude—it’s been closed by the park authorities, and it’s unlikely to open. So there’s a new route (making what used to be a tough day into an even tougher day) up to Monte Cinto, Corsica’s highest peak. Reach the remote Lac du Cinto and then continue up to a high pass, the Bocca Crucetta at 2,450 m. From here, have a long descent to the Tighjettu refuge and down to the Bergeries de Vallone, an old shepherd’s hut with nearby rock pools for bathing.

Accommodation: Camping (tent provided there, you don’t have to carry it) Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Hiking: 7 hours Elevation change: +1,600 m / +5,250 ft | -1,600 m / -5,250 ft

Crevice on the GR20

Today starts with an easy stretch of walking through the laricio pine forest before it gets a bit more scambly in order to reach the Bocca di Foggialle, not far from the refuge Ciottulu di i Mori and at the foot of the impressive Paglia Orba peak. Great views span out here, both behind the Calacuccia Lake and in front of the Golo Valley. From here, wind your way down to the river Golo, perfect for a dip in some fantastic rock pools. Keep going down, follow the river for a while before traversing the forest to reach the Castel di Vergio, an old ski station where there’s a choice of a gîte or hotel, and a small shop.

Accommodation: Hotel Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Hiking: 6.5 hours Elevation change: +970 m / +3,182 ft | -1,020 m / -3,346 ft

Paglia Orba landscapes

Another long day ahead, but today is especially beautiful as the scenery is starting to change. Climb up to Col St. Pierre (1,452 m) and make your way to the spectacular Lac de Nino (1,743 m). Surrounded by pizzones (little ponds surrounded by grassy meadows), it’s an ideal grazing area for horses, cattle, and wild pigs. After Lac de Nino, stop at the working goat farm of Vaccaja (1,621 m) before diverting from the GR20 to make your way to the Refuge de Sega. Rock pools make this a great location, and by being off-the-beaten-path you avoid the crowds.

Accommodation: Refuge Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Hiking: 8.5 hours Elevation change: +965 m / +3,166 ft | -1,200 m / -3,937 ft

Lac de Nino, Corsica

A shorter day allows you to take your time as you make your way down the beautiful Tavignano Gorge, with some great swimming spots, to the historic town of Corte. You should have a bit of time to explore the town and have a free evening tonight to eat out in a local restaurant.

Accommodation: 3* hotel Meals: Breakfast and picnic lunch Hiking: 5.5 hours Elevation change: +730 m / +2,395 ft | -1,400 m / -4,593 ft

Corte in Corsica

You’ve now reached the southern section of the GR20! The walking becomes a bit easier as there is less scrambling and more chances to look at the views. Start with either a train journey or a private transfer to Vizzavona (up to 1 hour), where you will rejoin the GR20 and climb up to the Bocca Palmente (1,640 m) through shady beech and pine forests. There you are greeted with fantastic views to the coast and behind you to Monte d’Oro. Make your way past the Alzeta shepherds’ huts to the U Cardu ridge, from where you’ll see the Monte Renoso, tomorrow’s objective.

Accommodation: 3* hotel Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Hiking: 5.5 hours Elevation change: +730 m / +2,395 ft | -1,400 m / -4,593 ft

Hikers trekking in Corsica

Today you climb Monte Renoso—standing at 2,352 m, it’s the highest mountain in southern Corsica. It’s a true gem of a peak, with most people doing the GR20 missing out on it. Your guides claim the view from up there is their favorite of the whole trip: you can see both coasts, a great view of both coasts, a view of where you’ve been (Monte Cinto) and where you’re going (Incudine and Bavella). It’s a scenic climb, not too difficult (mainly walking rather than scrambling), with a steep descent down to the spectacular pozzine in the valley of I Pozzi. Make your way over to the plateau de Gialgone to rejoin the GR20, and reach Col de Verden in 2 hours. For those feeling tired today, you can skip climbing Monte Renoso and opt for an easier route.

Accommodation: Gîte Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Hiking: 8 hours (or 5 without Monte Renoso) Elevation change: +815 m / +2,673 ft | -110 m / -360 ft OR +600 m / +1,968 ft | -950 m / -3,117 ft

Monte Renoso peak

Start the day with a steep climb up to a high ridge enroute to the Refuge de Prati. You’ll be able to see both coasts, and on a clear day, across the Ligurian Sea as far as the island of Elba. You’ve got a scrambling part then, with some exposed sections, until the Col de Laparo. Divert from the GR20 in order to avoid staying in overcrowded and uncomfortable huts, and stop at a privately-run gîte in the typical Corsican village of Cozzano.

Accommodation: Gîte Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Hiking: 8 hours Elevation change: +750 m / +2,460 ft | -1,300 m / -4,265 ft

Corsica viewpoint

Climb up through chestnut forest to rejoin the GR20, where you will reach the Arête a Mondi. Follow to the Punta d’Usciolu (1,815m), the Punta di a Scaddatta (1,834m) and finally to the Bocca di L’Agnonu (1,570m). The route criss-crosses through exciting notches along the ridge, and consists of around 2 hours of scrambling, exposed at times, offering wonderful views. Start your descent past the sheepfolds of Bassetta, and continue along to the gîte at Il Croce. It’s quite a long day, but continuing to Il Croce instead of staying at Bassetta makes our day a bit easier tomorrow. In case of bad weather, travel on a lower route via the village of Zicavo

Accommodation: Gîte or camping Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Hiking: 8 hours Elevation change: +1,000 m / +3,280 ft | -550 m / -1,805 ft

Scrambling in Corsica

Another long, but truly spectacular day. Climb up to the Col Incudine, from where you have views back towards Monte Cinto and Sardinia in front of you, along with Aiguilles de Bavella where you’re heading. From the col, it’s a very steep descent across slabs to the Refuge d’Asinau. A short easy section takes you through the woods before you make a diversion to tackle the Alpine variant of the GR20, through the heart of the Aiguilles de Bavella, a fantastic journey assisted by the occasional chain. In case of bad weather, take a transfer and do a shorter walk around Bavella.

Accommodation: Gîte Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Hiking: 9-10 hours Elevation change: +1,400 m / +4,593 ft | -1,400 m / -4,594 ft

Bavella peaks

The final day is a lovely way to end the GR20, with incredible views across granite peaks before entering a beautiful pine forest. Reach the refuge de Paliri fairly early on, and from there, the scenery remains rugged all the way to the little village of Conca, the end point of the GR20. After a celebratory drink, take a short transfer to Porto Vecchio and your hotel for the night.

Accommodation: 3* hotel Meals: Breakfast and picnic lunch Hiking: 7 hours Elevation change: +700 m / +2,296 ft | -1,670 m / -5,480 ft

Happy group near Conca

Wake up early, have breakfast, and pack up! Your guides will transfer you from Porto Vecchio to Figari Airport whichever time suits you—it’s a 25 minute journey. If you’d like to extend your stay, just ask your guides for some recommendations.

Meals: Breakfast

Corsica beach

Meet your guides

Emma Jack

Cloud 9 planned everything for our group: Food, lodging, baggage transportation and excellent hiking plans. The food and service in the hotels was great and staffs were friendly and helpful! I would highly recommend Cloud 9 for anyone planning a trip.

What an incredible experience. Our guide was fantastic, teaching our kids so many things along the way. Highly recommend!

What you get on this adventure:

  • An experienced, International Mountain Leader with extensive knowledge of the area
  • 14-day GR-20 Corsica trekking tour
  • All accommodation (details in the itinerary)
  • All breakfasts and packed lunches
  • Most dinners (except on Day 1, 7,  and 13)
  • All transportation during the tour
  • Fixed-time airport transfer from Bastia Airport to Calvi on Day 1 & from Porto Vecchio to Figari on Day 14
  • Luggage transfers on all but 2 nights

What’s not included:

  • Transportation to Corsica
  • Dinners on Day 1, 7, and 13
  • Sleeping bag
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal drinks and snacks
  • Guide gratuities — optional

Your guides firmly believe the GR-20 in Corsica deserves its reputation of being the hardest trek in Europe . It’s a very tough trek with long walking days in succession, meaning that you must be very fit and already have experience with high mountain hiking over several days. It’s a tougher walk than most people expect.

There’s also a lot of scrambling and on occasion you will need to use fixed chains and ladders, so it’s not suitable for those with vertigo. You’ll come across numerous large drops, so you have to be sure that you’re not going to make a clumsy slip. Some ascents are very long, some descents very steep, so that’s something to consider if you have sore knees. Walking poles come in very handy on the GR20, as they reduce the shock on your legs.

The GR-20 is a very remote trek, making it difficult to “sit out” a day if you’re feeling tired. All days are long (some 9-10 hours of hiking) and you can’t go too slowly. If you do not arrive fully fit and geared up, you will not only be jeopardizing your own chances of completing the route, but also the enjoyment and safety of other people. Slow hikers add several hour to a day, and while this can usually be accommodated on many other trips, that’s not the case with the GR20.

If you’re thinking of joining the GR20 trek, make sure you are ready for two weeks of very long and challenging days . Your guides put together this trip in a way that they organize your breakfasts, lunches, and most dinners, and instead of rustic mountain huts, you will stay at hotels and privately-run gîtes—with your luggage delivered daily.

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

  • Backpack large enough to carry things you’ll need throughout the day — 35-45L, anything bigger will be too heavy (also make sure that you can fit everything you need for an overnight stay including your sleeping bag)
  • Kit bag — for main luggage which is transported, please try to keep the weight to 15 kg or below
  • Dry bags / plastic bags — to keep kit dry
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers — as light as possible
  • Hiking poles — optional, but recommended
  • Hiking boots or shoes — make sure they’re in good condition before embarking, as there are no gear show along the way
  • Trekking trousers (bring something lightweight)
  • T-shirts (wicking t-shirts are better than cotton)
  • Mid-layer (fleece jacket is good)
  • Spare clothes for layering
  • Socks, underwear
  • Warm hat and gloves
  • Travel towel (not provided in gites)
  • Flip flops / crocs
  • Sleeping bag liner — comfort rating of around 3-5°C , a lightweight one weighs around 1kg or less
  • Tupperware box
  • Fork, spoon, or spork
  • Water bottle and camelbak — camelbak is recommended and can come in really handy on this trip, but it’s best to take both (make sure you have the capacity to carry at least 4 litres of water)
  • Sunhat and sunglasses
  • Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  • Headlamp or flashlight — a lightweight one
  • Insurance documents
  • Basic first aid kit — the guide will carry a large first aid kit, but for emergencies only, make sure you bring painkillers, blister treatment and plasters, rehydration salts (dioralite), diarrhea treatment (immodium), antiseptic cream, antihistamine cream or tablets + any personal medication you normally take

Here’s the optional gear:

  • Earplugs — indispensable in dorms
  • Snacks — dried fruit, nuts, energy bars…
  • Walking trainers — there are a few days where you might prefer to wear walking trainers in order to give your feet a break from boots
  • Travel pillow
  • Pillow case
  • Thermarest — only needed for the one night you camp, so it’s not really necessary
  • Water purifying tablets
  • Antibacterial handwash
  • Mobile phone
  • Travel kettle and tea bags
  • Multi-plug adapter

Generally speaking, accommodation on the GR20 is notoriously bad. Usually you’d stay in overcrowded and “rustic” mountain huts, but for this trip, your guides have carefully selected an assortment of hotels and privately-run gîtes (traditional rental homes). This makes the trip and overnights extremely comfortable in comparison to other companies. Still, do not expect luxury—the accommodation is basic, simple, and clean, and your luggage will be delivered daily . This is a massive bonus of this guided trip, as you don’t have to carry with you 40-lbs backpacks.

You will spend…

  • 5 nights in good hotels with ensuite facilities (twin or double rooms, very occasionally a triple)
  • 6 nights in privately-run gîtes in mixed-dormitory accommodation (with showers and toilets)
  • 1 night in a spectacularly-located mountain refuge with 6-8 people per room (with showers and toilets)
  • 1 night at a shepherds hut where you camp (simple toilet facilities and 1 shower)

In your guides’ experience, gîtes and refuges all have hot showers—in many years of doing trips, they’ve only had 1 or 2 cold showers. But the great thing of these two places that are most likely culprits of not having hot water is that they’re next to fantastic rock pools, so most people prefer to swim in the pools at the end of the day.

Overall, your guides have really chosen the best of the best for this route. One of the main reasons that your guides avoid huts is that they’re renowned for bed bugs—they will never stay at any establishment where they have been reported (unlike other operators). Still, your guides do recommend washing all your clothing at high temperature at the end of the trip—you can never be too safe!

The breakfasts on this trip are continental-style and usually consist of a hot drink along with bread and jam.

Picnic lunches are usually fantastic and plentiful, varying from sandwiches to local meats & cheeses to pasta or lentil salad and a piece of fruit.

Dinners are also usually excellent—hearty, but basic—3-course meals, perfect after a hard day in the mountains.

If you’re a vegetarian —a love of omelettes will help see you through this trip. Corsican mountain gîtes have not yet fully grasped the concept of vegetarian food, and you will almost always be served an omelette, with varying accompaniments. Sometimes you will be offered fish, so please remember to tell us if that’s okay for you upon booking. Your guides will do their best to ask for different dishes, but there are no promises. It might be a good idea to bring along some nuts and extra snacks.

This trip is not suitable for vegans or those with other more specific dietary requirements. 

Luggage is delivered on all nights apart from two, as those locations are not accessible by vehicle. This means that you have to carry your overnight kit (including sleeping bag) for four days.

Please bring just one bag for transportation, and a backpack (35-40L). If you need two bags (it’s not possible to leave a bag in Calvi or Bastia, unless you’re planning on returning there at the end of the trip), then just let us know —there’s usually a supplement of $125.

You will need money for lunch in Calvi, and dinners in Calvi, Corte, and Porte Vecchio (30-40 euros per dinner is sufficient). For other drinks and snacks, you’ll need around 10-15 euros per day. Bring your spending money in cash in euros , as cards are not accepted in the refuges, and there will be no exchange facilities throughout the trip.

Bottled water, wine, beer, and soft drinks are available at almost all of the refuges, and you might find that hot weather makes you consume more cans of soft drinks than normally.

Tipping your guide is optional, and it’s the accepted way of saying thank you for good service. Please remember that it is voluntary and should only be done if you were pleased with the service. The amount is entirely up to you. The guides are all paid fairly.

In general, you can expect it to be pretty hot and normally clear. The snow should have melted by late June, and July is the hottest month with the least amount of rainfall, though June, August, and September are also relatively dry as well.

The temperature can range from around 5°C to around 30°C (although in July it can reach 36°C). It’s generally hot and dry, but due to the mountainous nature of the terrain, it’s not uncommon to have sudden thunder storms, harsh winds, heavy rain, hail, and sometimes even snow, so it’s important to be prepared for every eventuality.

Group sizes and prices:

  • For this trek, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is 10:1.
  • It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate.
  • The cost does not decrease as the group grows.

Trekking the GR20 in Corsica can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:

  • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  • Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

To get to your GR20 adventure in Corsica, fly into Bastia-Poretta Airport (BIA) . Make sure to arrive before 3 pm, as that’s when the group transfer departs from Bastia to the seaside town of Calvi. It’s also worth checking out flights going directly to Calvi Airport (CLY) .

If you won’t make the group transfer from Bastia Airport, contact your guides in time so they can make arrangements.

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more.

Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans.

We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to. For more information on travel recommendations and restrictions in France, please refer to France’s Foreign Travel Advice .

If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!

A 15% non-refundable deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 10 weeks (70 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.

  • If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to seventy (70) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, only Client’s deposit will be forfeited.
  • For cancellations thirty-one (31) to seventy (70) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the total price of the trip.
  • For cancellations thirty or less days in advance, Client is not entitled to any refund.
  • Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.

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Self guided GR20 Corsica hiking tour

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trek gr20 corse

The mythic Corsican trail: the GR20

The GR20 is arguably the toughest walking route in Europe and is often described as one of the most exhilarating long distance walks in the world.

What is the GR20?

GR20 basically means great trail (or footpath) n°20 in French. The letters GR refer to the words “ grande randonnée ” in French and 20 refers to the number used in the Corsican old postcode. Nowadays, the numbers are 2A for the southern part of the island (A for Ajaccio) and 2B for the northern part of the island (B for Bastia). In Corsica, the GR20 is called “ Fra li Monti ” (meaning through the Corsican mountains ) as the trail follows the mountainous relief from the north-west to the south-east of the island.

All four seasons?

The GR20 trail can be done all year round. However, this long distance footpath soon becomes snowed under in winter. The only way to do the GR20 is to put your skis or snowshoes on. The GR20 becomes the Alta Strada , one of the most technical raids in Europe , which can be practiced from February to April. As early as the end of May, snow melts on the Fra Li Monti and walkers start conquering this epic trail until the end of October.

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GR20 train in Corsica

  • The History of the GR20
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corsica

Europe's toughest trek: Corsica's GR20

T here are several ways to react when a friend suggests you take on something described as "Europe's hardest long-distance trek". A straightforward refusal, for example, or a plucky pledge to give it a try once you've trained sufficiently – say, for five years. It takes a particular mix of ignorance and bravado to instead shrug a shoulder and nonchalantly ask: "How bad can it really be?"

One hundred and seventy kilometres traversing Corsica's steepling spine. Nineteen thousand metres of ascent and descent. Fifteen days walking for a minimum of six hours a day. These numbers seemed abstract when we decided to take on the Grande Randonnée (GR) 20. To men of greater trekking experience – the sort who wouldn't have had to borrow their rucksacks off mates, or then filled them with iPod chargers and beach towels rather than freeze-dried spaghetti and crampons – they would have served as a dread warning of what was to come.

Not us two. With one straight from a job with a Parisian luxury goods company so cushy he gloried in the soubriquet "Champagne Nick", and the other held together by bandages after foolishly attempting to complete a full decathlon in a single hour, those bare statistics hinted only at charming mountain vistas, heroic tales of derring-do among sun-baked peaks and impressively muscled legs to show off at the next available barbecue.

Two days in and reality has sunk its teeth into our sweaty behinds. In 13 hours of toil, we have yet to encounter a section of flat path that stretches for more than 10 metres. Only rarely have we encountered a path at all. Instead, the red and white daubs of paint that serve as trail markers have sent us scrabbling up nightmarish boulder fields, sliding down vertiginous scree slopes and inching across precipitous rock faces. Walk? There isn't the opportunity. This is rock-climbing without ropes. There are astounding panoramas – don't look down — but we're too busy not tumbling into them to appreciate it all.

"Is this a joke?" gasps Champagne Nick, dropping his rucksack to the ground and falling on top of it. He jabs a finger at a brutal cascade of enormous granite lumps that stretches up and away to the horizon. Having set off at sunrise, we have already hauled ourselves up the equivalent of one and a half Ben Nevises. Strung out down the bare valley below are a handful of fellow trekkers, plodding upwards slowly like pack donkeys. A 900m descent over treacherous loose stones is still to come. How bad could it be? Very.

The GR20 – or "Jhay Air Vang", as the locals pronounce it – does not mess about. From the very first step it climbs at a dizzying rate, through dense maquis forest and then larico pines, past shepherds' huts and hoofprints left by wild boar, up through the wispy coastal clouds and away into the silent, mountainous interior.

In winter it's impassable with snow, in high summer sweltering, which is why insiders recommend late June and early September. And while it's possible to split it in half and do just the north or south sections, the traditional route cuts from Calenzana in the north-west, a 10-minute taxi ride from Calvi, all the way across to Conca in the south-east, returning via dusty bus two weeks later.

It deserves enormous respect. Unfortunately, we have barely given it a second thought. Two thousand metres up at Bocca Piccaia, with grey, jagged peaks the shape of Stone Age spears emerging and then disappearing in the mist below us, we cling to one of the few handholds on the fissured rock face for dear life while playful gusts attempt to nudge us into the abyss. "This is beautiful," I hiss at Nick, "but insane." 

There is a happy shout behind us. Three clean-limbed French girls are skipping along the skinny ridge with all the ease of gymnasts on a high beam. Close behind is a middle-aged Belgian man wearing a raver's bandana. The previous night he had introduced himself as his country's biggest retailer of industrial castors ("All sizes. They are amazing things"). He spots us and waves delightedly. "Let's run the descent!" he yells, and bounds off at suicidal pace.

It takes us three more sore-legged hours to catch up with them at the end of the stage. We are ready for hot showers, rub-downs, gargantuan meals and beers so cold they could please a penguin, but this is the GR20. There are no four-star hotels, no charming converted farmhouses to stay in. For the majority of the route, the choice is simple: a mattress on the floor of a tiny wooden refuge at €15 a pop, or a tent pitched in the stony ground that surrounds it.

At first glance these refuges seem charming – reminiscent of the sort of bucolic Alpine hut that Heidi might have stayed in with her grandfather. There are tinkling goats, spectacular prospects across summits and valleys and ancient bearded guardiens to provide you with student-style cooking at extravagant prices. Unfortunately, there are also 25 pairs of stinking walking boots, the Mediterranean's most primeval toilets and sleeping quarters so cramped you may as well lick your neighbours' feet at the start of the night and get on with it. 

With lights off at 8.30pm, you'd expect to get your fill of sleep. That fails to take into account the international snoring contests which break out as soon as darkness falls. The only noise that's more disturbing comes around 2am, as 20 sleep-deprived individuals queue outside the single latrine toilet.

Freeze-dried food might be light in the backpack, but it's heavy on the guts. As a chill moonlight lights up the trees overhead, the small wooden cubicle shakes to what sounds like a series of balloons being burst in a vat of custard. Nick glances at the three French girls standing wearily behind us. "I think I might find a private bush," he whispers.

The trek's daily rhythm is soon established. At the first hint of dawn, the refuge comes alive with the blinking of head-torches and the zipping of fleeces. Food is rehydrated and boiled to destruction, weak coffee glugged down, toilets devastated. As soon as there's enough light to see the broken ground under your boots, the little groups set off – some in somnolent silence, some with cheery song, others loudly discussing the Parisian champagne market in a desperate attempt to forget about blistered toes and decathlon-induced injuries.

For at least two hours, there will be an uphill so relentless that it's like being on a mountainside treadmill. What breath is left will be taken by the sort of view normally available only to helicopter pilots and people watching Lord of the Rings on DVD. At some point an eccentric veteran will overtake, wearing high-cut denim shorts and clip-on shades, drinking wine and offering a slice of saucisson as he breezes past. That anyone might attempt a lie-in, or breakfast at leisure, seems unthinkable. The unspoken orthodoxy seems to be that the GR is a beautifully backclothed trial as much as a trail, which makes it both mildly shocking and all the more captivating when we fall in with the Lebanese posse.

Georges, Marc, Raph and Nabil are schoolboy friends out for a middle-aged adventure. While others mix rehydration sachets, they pass round the malt whisky. While others retire with ear-plugs as soon as the sun goes down, they crack out the eau de vie and actually look like they're having a good time.

The Cirque de la Solitude is the most notorious single section of the entire GR20. People are so scared of it that they huddle in petrified groups the night before, exchanging horror stories and then going to bed even more prematurely than usual. Not the boys. They buy endless bottles of Corsican wine from le guardien , pull cartons of duty-free fags from their backpacks and invite us to paint the refuge red.

The Cirque turns out to be both gorgeous and terrifying at the same time. After 800m of rope-free climbing up, there's 300m of straight down – straight down as in sheer rock-face, without even any pretence of a path. As a sop to the cowardly, there are some old chains bracketed into the smooth granite. As a teaser, there's nothing but the occasional spiky outcrop between you and the valley floor 1,200m below. The eau de vie hangover lends it all an air of enjoyable farce. After inadvertently essaying a spontaneous abseil that is a lucky ledge away from full flight, Nick gulps: "That's the closest I've ever come to losing my life," and instead of lighting a flare and waiting for mountain rescue, we all laugh uproariously and clatter onwards.

For all the tribulations, the rewards are remarkable. The terrain is like nothing else in Europe, the set pieces the sort of thing that have even grizzled veterans swooning like knock-kneed novices. Adrenaline overcomes exhaustion, camaraderie keeps the aches at bay.

When we reach the overnight stop at Bergeries de Vallone, a large rock pool is discovered in the nearby river and cans of Pietra beer bought from a shepherd at a mark-up of just 400%. Lebanese charm and free alcohol persuade the French girls to join us for the GR version of a pool party, and as the sun slinks away behind the darkening mountains and water boatmen zip across the flat surface of the river, a sozzled sense of satisfaction comes over us all. The Jhay Air isn't so bad after all, we decide.

In retrospect, it was probably a mistake to accept the bottle of cherry brandy from the shepherd. Whether that alone is responsible for the lung-splitting reworking of the song YMCA as GR20, the midnight javelin competition with our walking poles and the demolition of a giant wheel of fresh goat's cheese we may never know, but things are never quite as good again.

Maybe it's the Lebanese bailing out – like many others, they'd decided to do just the northern half of the trek – or maybe it's the dodgy water source from the refuge at Manganu that leaves us all vomiting for a deeply unpleasant 36 hours. Perhaps it's the unbroken routine of trek, refuge, bad food, poor sleep, trek, refuge. Whichever, with a week and a half gone and no end in sight, a grim, humourless mood of resignation overtakes every walker.

That the landscape gradually softens to a succession of lush oak forests and rolling pastures conversely makes the going harder. While the crag-clambering had been sadistic, the challenge of getting through each stage kept the mind fresh. When it's just a case of slogging onwards, day after near identical day, motivation is harder to maintain. Fatigue fills our rucksacks with lead. Each jarring downhill stride hurts a little bit more. Of those who had started at the same time as us, only the French trio remain en route. Deep into the south part of the island we try to push the doubts away. Having come this far, we aren't going to be among the 75% who fail to make it to the finish.

That's the plan. The Manganu parasites have other ideas. With the downhill run to the coast at Conca just three days away, the vomiting and exhaustion return with a vengeance. Unable to pick up our bags, unable to lift our heads from our knees, we hear the white flag being raised overhead.

"Arse," says Nick glumly. "Stomach," I reply. He looks at me and grins. "Does it count if you finish in a taxi?"

Tom Fordyce's book (with Ben Dirs) about his attempt to become a sporting world champion, We Could Be Heroes, is published by Macmillan. To order a copy for £10.99 with free UK p&p go to observer.co.uk/bookshop or call 0330 333 684 7

Tom Fordyce travelled as a guest of the French Tourist Board ( uk.franceguide.com ). Refuges on the GR20 cost about €15 a night and can be booked through the Parc Naturel Regional de Corse ( parc-corse.org ). Further English-language route and planning information is available from Corsica for Hikers ( corsica.forhikers.com/gr20 ).

Easyjet ( easyjet.com ) flies to Bastia, a two-hour bus ride from Calvi, from Gatwick, Manchester and Bristol.

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GR20 Integral Guided Lightened backpack

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  • ENGLISH / INTERNATIONAL guided trek
  • The best hiking and scrambling in Europe
  • The Complete GR20 long distance trek
  • GR20 - Conca, Vizzavona, Calenzana

Walk the complete GR20 in Corsica with a guide, the finest and most probably the hardest mountain hiking route in Europe, this is a classic trek rising from the Mediterranean sea, with granite peaks soaring to over 2600m. Corsica is known as 'the Mountain in the sea'. Over the course of 14 days we will cover a total of 180km of mountainous terrain, with approx 12,000m altitude ascent and descent, this is the entire GR20 route, from Conca in the South to Calenzana in the north. For the Southern half of the trek you have access to your bags everynight, for the Northern half, you will need to carry overnight gear. You need to be fit and ready to walk this most challenging hike.

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Day 1 – Bastia to Conca

This holiday starts on a Saturday in Bastia, the first grouped transfer will take you directly up to Conca, where you check into your first accommodation. Conca is the first stop at the start of the GR20, the journey takes approximately 2h30. Time to settle into the gite before the evening meal with the group, night in the gite at Conca.

Day 2 – Conca to Bavella

This first day is really hard and a good introduction to the pace and the challenge ahead. The trail leads uphill from the village of Conca, we take your overnight gear on to the next night stop so you don’t have to carry it. The GR20 follows the traces of an ancient transhumance route through the rocky landscape of pines and granite blocks. The route continues to the Paliri refuge at just over 1000m altitude, then crosses the Finosa col before arriving at the hamlet of Bavella below the mighty Bavella needles, night in dorms in a simple gite at the Col de Bavella. Access to bags.

18km, 7h30, +1500m, -530m.

Day 2 - Bavella to Coscione Plateau

Today is a challenging day from the high mountain pass, the Col de Bavella, before dawn you take the trail that is called the Alpine variant. It leads steeply uphill before passing at the base of several granite pinnacles. You plunge down into the valley before following an easy trail through the woods towards Asinao refuge before heading steeply up to the magnificent ridge line of Monte Alcudina, with the summit at 2134m altitude. You leave the high ground and head down towards the famous Cuscione plateau. This is the largest plateau on the island. Your night stop is a shepherd’s cabin situated on the edge of the plateau. Access to bags.

14km, 8h30, +1350m, -1025m.

Day 4 - Coscione plateau to Cozzano

Today you pick up the trail on the plateau and cross the wide open green pasture with it’s streams and little water holes. You make your way uphill through an age old forest of dwarf oak trees up to the Col de l’Agnone. From here, you start possibly one of the best ridge walks, it is very exposed, the trail is ambitious and it is hard to imagine that there is a way through. The granite has been wonderfully sculpted by the elements and the decor is awesome. The trail topples back and forth over the ridge, to one side then the other. At the end of the day we drop down to the village of Cozzano, a hive of activity in the heart of the mountains. Access to bags.

18km, 8h00, +575m, -1380m.

Day 5 - Cozzano to Col de Verde

This walk has some really special scenery with great views. From the refuge you continue along the ridge that separates the valley of Taravo and the Fiumorbu. The trail plunges down towards the Col de Laparo. You will pass the GR refuge, Prati (1820m) it is worth stopping to enjoy the airy rooftop views of the island and enjoy the lush, spongy fresh ground. It is sometimes possible to see the islands of Elba and Monte Cristo. The descent winds rapidly down in and out of the forest to your destination at the Col de Verde. (1289m). Access to bags.

19km, 7h30,  +1400m, -850m.

Day 6 - Col de Verde to Vizzavona

The trail undulates gently today and mainly contours through a forest of pine trees. These majestic tall straight lariccio pines with a silvery smooth bark are very much a symbol of the island. Today's walk is essentially traversing the flanks of the dominating mountain, the Monte Renosu. You continue to Bocca Palmente 1640m, from where on a clear day the views are exceptional, the looming massifs of the Monte d’Oro and the Rotondu tower above. You drop down into a thick forest of pine and beech trees for a relaxing descent, the trail loops back and forth lacing down to Vizzavona (920m) the midway point of the GR20. Access to bags.

27km, 7h30, +1575m, -1450m.

Day 7 - Vizzavona to Petra Piana

Today is  the first two stages of the northern section of the GR20. You embark either on a steady ascent to the Brêche de Muratellu (2100m). The path leads alongside the Cascade des Anglais up to Muratellu, affording stunning views of the Monte Rotondu, The high level route follows the ridge, via the summit of Pinzi Corbini (2021m), to Petra Piana refuge (1840m).  This is a short but challenging ridge section, steep and exposed.  In bad weather there is an alternative lower valley option that will be taken direct to Petra Piana. Tonight you camp in the vicinity of Petra Piana refuge. (1840m / 6037ft). No access to bags.

16/20km, 9h00, +1240/1800m, -1120/510m.

Day 8 - Petra Piana to Camputile plateau

From Petra Piana a short uphill section takes you to the high ridge above the refuge. The trail is rocky, almost lunar in ambiance. You pass a mountain col and continue on the high route. The views are spectacular, with Corte, the island’s historic capital in the distance and a series of wonderful glacier lakes to discover. From the small Brèche above Lake Capitello, we plunge downhill to Manganu refuge situated on the edge of the Camputile plateau.  No access to bags.

8.5km, 5h00, +610m, -860m.

Day 9 - Camputile plateau to Col de Vergio

The GR20 is well-marked, leading gently uphill, a relaxing easy walk through beech woods, and across the green spongy turf to the Lac de Nino. A morning stop to have a snack and relax on the banks of the lake.  At 1743m this glacier lake is in a lovely, sheltered bucolic spot, surrounded by spongy peat, with runnels of water and wells, ideal grazing ground for ponies and other animals in the summer. The air is fresh, tinged with the scent of alder and the fragrance of the high mountains. You drop down at the Col St Pierre, to join a flat horse shoe shaped trail to Castel di Vergio, the island’s small ski station.  Access to bags.

16km, 6h00, +510m, -710m.

Day 10 - Col de Vergio to Melarie Valley

The GR20 trail follows the Golu torrent up the valley towards its source. Mid way up the valley, your route crosses the torrent, a good place to take a break on the smooth sun-baked rocks, a paddle and a swim for the brave. The trail shortly leaves the floor of the valley and heads up to the ridge line. From here there are clear views of the villages dotted on the west coast and the indented outline of the island in the sea. The refuge Ciuttolu di I Mori (2000m), the highest refuge in Corsica, is situated between two daunting mountains the Tafanatu and Paglia Orba. From the refuge the GR20 falls away steeply downhill, to Vallone. No access to bags.

14.5km, 6h30, +810m, -780m.

Day 11 - Melarie Valley to Haut Asco

Today is a tough, high altitude mountain walk.   You make your way uphill progressively to the foothills of the Monte Cinto, the highest summit on the island.  The climb is steep, rocky and slow.  After a couple of hours, you arrive at Bocca Crucetta, a ridge leads to the daunting ‘Pointe des Eboulis’ at 2607m this is the highest point on the GR20, the view is absolutely spectacular.  From here, the path literally plunges down to the small lake the other side.  The trail continues downhill, the scree, the rocks and austere décor gives way to a river and woods as you approach the old ski station of Haut-Asco. Access to bags.

9km, 7h00, +1260m, -1230m.

Day 12 - Haut Asco to Carrozzu

From the ski station at Haut Ascu, a superb ascent takes you to Bocca Di Stagnu (2010m) at the foot of the Muvrella (2150m). From Lake Muvrella the view over Calvi bay is incredible. From here you drop down to the refuge at Carrozzu. You arrive at Carrozu, a refuge surrounded by box trees, with great sunsets! Camp at Refuge. No access to bags.

7km, 5h30, +650m, -850m.

Day 13 - Carrozzu to Ortu di Pobbiu

The first part of this walk is outstanding, the ambiance is high and airy as you enter into a semi-circle of high mountains, the Cirque de Bonifatu.  The trail works its way around the edge of this large cirque and the panoramic view of all the highest peaks is inspiring.   The day breaks into two clear sections, the second half crosses an easier basin area that is dotted with woodland before arriving at the beautifully situated refuge at Orto di Pobbiu. No access to bags.

7km, 7h00, +950m, -750m.

Day 14 – Ortu di Pobbiu to Calenzana

From Ortu di Pobbiu the day is varied all the way to the end of the trek at the village of Calenzana. You are nearly there. This is the last day in the Bonifatu massif, the scenery is breath-taking from granite mountains, to thick dense forests, and low-level maquis scrub, and the views over the coastline and the Balagne are superb before arriving at the bustling village of Calenzana which is a hive of activity with walkers. After a short transfer night in a hotel in Calvi. Access to bags.

11km, 6h00, +50m, -1360m.

Day 15 – Calvi

Trek ends after breakfast, private transfers or train and taxi available to Bastia or private transfer to Calvi airports

This itinerary is correct at time of publication. Should situations arise that are beyond our control, such as severe weather conditions, or other such factors that could put yours or others safety at risk, your itinerary may be modified.

Price includes

An experienced English speaking International Mountain leader, accommodation on full board (nights 1 to 14), single timed group transfer from Bastia Airport to Conca on Day 1, all transfers and luggage transfers detailed in the itinerary.

Price does not include

Reservation fee of  5€ / person, travel insurance, drinks, picnic day 1, unexpected transfers, travel to Corsica.

In Bastia airport in the afternoon for a single timed transfer.

After breakfast in your hotel in Calvi. Transfers to the airport available at a supplement.

Bastia airport or port. Figari airport possible with a private transfer.

  • Simple Gites & Park Refuges, in dormitories or camping at refuges (showers and WC facilities are limited).
  • Simple Continental breakfast (tea, coffee, milk, longlife bread, butter, jam).
  • Evening meals (based on local specialties - a starter, soup or smoked meats, main course or pasta or rice with a sauce, cheese, a fruit or a sweet pudding.).
  • Picnics (please bring a tupperware for rice, pasta, lentils, couscous salad)

Should you have any food allergies, special requests or dietary requirements, please advise at time of booking. Food is limited for vegetarians, and special diets cannot be accommodated due to the remoteness of the trek.

Reservations for 1 or more participants NB. For private groups please contact us for a quote.

Tough The walks are long between 6-9 hours a day, maybe more. You can expect steep uphill and downhill sections with maybe up to 1000m altitude gain some days. The temperatures will range and weather conditions can be severe. You are fit and have good trekking experience. See our level ratings.

PLEASE NOTE THIS WALK IS VERY TESTING, YOU NEED TO BE SURE FOOTED AND HAVE APPROPRIATE SCRAMBLING EXPERIENCE. YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW TO PLACE YOUR FEET ON ROCKY GROUND.

English speaking International Mountain Leader.

A vehicle will transport your luggage, which you will have access to every night in the south, and only every 2 to 3 nights in the north. You have to carry your sleeping bag and personal belongings for the nights in refuges, not accessible by road.

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GR20 - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

  • (5.06 mi) Acquaviva Hotel
  • (5.34 mi) Casa Vanella
  • (2.24 mi) Hotel le Chalet
  • (4.86 mi) Hotel Casa Balduina
  • (3.13 mi) Camping Monte-Cinto
  • (7.92 mi) Le Pont Genois
  • (9.92 mi) bar restaurant le GR 20
  • (4.90 mi) Auberge U FUCAGHJOLU
  • (7.72 mi) E cime
  • (7.92 mi) RESTAURANT DE LA MIELLERIE D'ASCO

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Corsica GR20 Trek

First high pass to Haute Asco

Trip Notes for Corsica GR20 Trek

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Challenging hiking in Corsica

Trek the classic GR20 Haute Route in Corsica, one of Europe’s most challenging and beautiful long-distance walks. The local people call the route 'Fra li Monti' 'Fra li Monti', which means 'across the mountains', it is a magnificent traverse from north to south, encompassing an impressive range of landscapes. We hike precipitous rocky trails and airy ridges, meander through pine and beech forests, and swim in the crystal clear rivers. This unique and spectacular trekking holiday offers the perfect combination of Mediterranean sunshine, inspiring scenery and challenging walking. The GR20 is a trek of a lifetime that should be on every hikers 'bucket list'! 

  • Experience the extraordinary beauty of Corsica
  • Wild swimming in crystal clear mountain pools
  • Complete the challenge of Europe's toughest trek
  • Join the elite group of GR20 long distance hikers
  • Witness a truly spectacular island mountain landscape
  • Twelve days of stunning hiking and light 'scrambling'
  • Good quality hotels, private gîtes, and high mountain refuges
  • Luggage support each day of the trek, except for two
  • Finish by the famous town of Porto Vecchio by the sea 

Rising abruptly from the Mediterranean sea, with granite peaks soaring to over 2500m (8200ft), Corsica is known as 'the Scented Isle'. Famous for its dramatic coastline and pretty mountain villages, the rugged island of Corsica reveals its most spectacular scenery only to those who are prepared to explore on foot. Over the course of a truly spectacular two weeks we will cover a total of 180km (112 miles), with approx 12,000m (39,360ft) of ascent and descent. 

As well as booking this full version of the GR20 Trek we also offer the GR20 North  and the GR20 South . This allows you to complete the trek over two stages if preferred.

I am really pleased I saw the real Corsica with its enormous mountains, beautiful streams and forests, and colourful local characters. The accommodation was much better than I had anticipated…apart from some thunder storms the weather was kind to us - not the unrelenting sun I was expecting. Emma was a great leader, knowledgeable and always positive. Our group was fantastic - fun and always supportive.

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Your GR20 adventure begins at Bastia airport , where we will meet for our transfer to Calvi. Alternatively, you can fly direct to Calvi and meet at the group hotel. For more details consult the 'Arrival & Departure' section under 'Trip Information'. 

In the afternoon you can sit on the beach or explore the lovely harbour town of Calvi, said to be the birthplace of explorer Christopher Columbus. It was during the period of Genoese domination of the island that Christopher Columbus was reputedly born in the town, a claim that is supported today by a monument built into the walls of the citadel. There are many shops and restaurants to be enjoyed before we head for the mountains. 

The town was briefly occupied by English naval forces in 1794, a battle in which the famous English Admiral, Lord Nelson  lost his eye. Today, the town is a base for a regiment of the French Foreign Legion , and soldiers are often seen running in full kit up the steep mountain trails around Calvi. 

Your guide will meet you at approximately 1915 hrs; here they will brief you on the trip ahead and answer any questions you might have about the itinerary and terrain. 

Note that dinner is not included on the first evening, however, your guide will book a restaurant as Calvi can be quite busy. If you would prefer not to eat with the group please let your guide know.  

Accommodation: Hotel

Today you begin a journey taking you from north to south of this beautiful island. Corsica is often referred to in the French language as 'L'Ile de Beauté', the Isle of Beauty. Over the course of a spectacular two weeks we will cover a total of 180km (112 miles), with approximately 12,000m (39,360ft) of ascent and descent. It is a wonderful adventure and although this trip is not for the faint hearted we firmly believe that the rewards are immense. 

This morning we leave Calvi behind and drive for about 20 minutes to the village of Calenzana. This is where the GR20 officially beings, and no doubt we will be taking a few photos to mark the occasion. We ease into things today, giving us time to get used to the conditions, and to enjoy the views of the coast and the mountain villages. It is also an introduction to the vegetation and in early summer the trail is scented with wild jasmine, and the aromatic 'curry' plant. Today is definitely a day for wild swimming, and the beautiful crystal clear water of the many rock pools will be a theme for the northern section. We usually stop to 'cool off' in rock pools before tackling the final climb to Bonifatu where we will spend the night in a gîte . 

Ascent: 800m (2624ft) Descent: 540m (1771ft) Distance: 11km (6.8 miles) Duration: 5h00

Accommodation: Gîte

It's an early start this morning for what is a long, and challenging hike, but the spectacular landscape more than makes up for the effort. The terrain is a good introduction to the rest of the first week, as we climb up into the forest and through the cirque de Bonifatu, until we reach the Carrozzu refuge where we will take a break before heading across the 30m (98ft) Spasimata footbridge, known as one of the most photographed spots on the route. We then climb up the Spasimata rock slabs using fixed cables and chains, nothing difficult but requiring steady footwork, to eventually at the Muvrella valley. Muvrella is the Corsican name for mouflon , a type of wild sheep, and with luck we may see some. The mouflon is believed to be the ancestor of all modern sheep breeds. Passing the Lac de Muverella, we have a rocky ascent to the Bocca di a Muvrella, this is a pass at 2000m (6560ft). We then have a tricky, but short, section to our second pass, the Bocca di Stagnu at 2010m (6592ft). The views from here are fantastic as we can see the western coastline, and mountains. then its downhill all the way, with a steep descent with some scrambling down to the old ski station of Haut Asco at 1422m (4664ft) and our hotel. 

Ascent: 1480m (4854ft) Descent: 600m (1968ft) Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) Duration: 8h30-9h00

Accommodation: Hotel

Today we head towards the highest mountain in Corsica Monte Cinto, which sits at 2706m (8878ft). The first known ascent of Monte Cinto was on 6 June 1882, by a party led by Édouard Rochat who reached the summit via the mountain's southern slopes. On 26 May 1883 a party led by the English mountaineer, Francis Fox Tuckett , including François   Devouassoud, a Chamonix born mountain guide, and the landscape painter Compton, also ascended the mountain by the pass that now bears Tuckett's name. Tucker was one the main figures of the so-called Golden Age of Alpinism making ascents of 269 European peaks, and crossing 687 passes! 

Eventually, after passing Monte Cinto and  the remote Lac de Cinto, we continue up to a high pass, the Bocca Crucetta at 2450m (8036ft). Time for lunch and photos, before we make our way down to the Tighjettu refuge and the Bergeries de Vallon where we will camp. You do not need to carry camping gear, but do need a lightweight summer sleeping bag. The Bergeries de Vallon is  an old shepherd's hut situated in a really lovely setting, with rock pools nearby for bathing. 

We will ask anyone who struggled with the terrain yesterday to sit out this day, and as it is not possible to drive to Vallone, you will miss two days of hiking and take transport to Castel de Verghio to rejoin the group. 

Ascent: 1600m (5248ft) Descent: 1600m (5248ft) Distance: 13km (8 miles) Duration: 8h00-9h00

Accommodation: Camping - tent and sleeping mat provided  

NB: Tonight you will not have access to your luggage due to the remote location of our overnight. 

This morning you will no doubt welcome an easier start to our day. We begin by walking through the laricio pine forest. The laricio, also known as the black pine, produces an oil which has been used traditionally to cure acne, common colds, and viral infections. It can also be used for treating cracked hands and feet in winter, and for sealing wooden roofs. After contemplation of this useful tree we begin a rocky scrambling section to reach the Bocca di Foggiale. We are rewarded with great views both behind us to the Calacuccia lake, and ahead of us to the Golo valley. From here we traverse the mountainside to the Ciotulu I Mori refuge which sits below the Paglia Orba peak. After a stop for drinks and snacks, we stroll along an easy high level trail with views to the seas, before heading down to the river Golo. The pools here are stunning and the water is so clear that you can see the trout swimming. You will have noticed a theme developing here. Hike, swim, hike swim! We then have a final river section to hike before entering the forests and heading for Castel de Verghio, an old ski station. 

Ascent: 970m (3181ft) Descent: 1020m (3345ft) Distance: 15km (9.5 miles) Duration: 6h00-6h30

Accommodation: Hotel  

We are up early and ready to face another challenging day with some stunning scenery to entice us onwards. You will notice that the landscape begins more mellow, as we climb up to the Bocca San Pedru at 1452m (4762ft), and then over a second pass the Bocca a Reta at 1881m (6169ft) as we hike towards the beautiful high meadows of the Lac de Nino at 1743m (5717ft). Surrounded by pozzines, which are little ponds in the midst of grassy meadows, it is a grazing area for horses, cattle and wild pigs. After the Lac de Nino, we will take a short break at the working farm of Bergeries de Vaccaghja.

The next section feels remote and the trail seldom travelled. It is not easy to find the route and today we really feel like we are exploring off-the-beaten track.  Our overnight is at the end of a trail through pine forests and away from the crowds, with several great rock pools nearby if you fancy a swim.  

The Refuge is run by Frederique and Marie, a mother and daughter team, who will also be providing our meals. Tonight we will camp and their free range chickens roam amongst our tents, although thankfully the cockerel doesn't seem to wake too early! Their Border Collie dog delights in rounding up the chickens. 

Ascent: 965m (3165ft) Descent: 1200m (3936ft) Distance: 23km (14.3 miles) Duration: 8h00-8h30

Accommodation: Mountain Refuge - either dormitory or in tents in the grounds

A shorter day today so we are able to be more leisurely and take our time as we descend from the mountains via the stunningly beautiful Tavignano gorge. The source of the river Tavignano is in the heart of the island, just south of Monte Cinto the highest peak in Corsica. The river flows generally east through Corte and on to the sea. However, before reaching civilisation again we have the opportunity to swim in the clear, clear water below the bridge which takes us to the other bank and down the valley.

After passing through the gorge we will arrive at the historic town of Corte. The town is famous for being the capital of the Corsican independent state during a period of resistance in the 1700's. The leader of the movement was Filippo Pasquale di Paoli a patriot who led the Corsicans, first against the Genoese, and later against French rule of the island. Corsica officially became a French province in 1770. With all of this history in mind we aim to arrive in Corte with some time to explore the town. We have not included dinner on this night to give you the chance to 'do your own thing' and eat out in a local restaurant.

Ascent: 720m (2361ft) Descent: 1400m (4592ft) Distance: 13km (8.1 miles) Duration: 5h00-5h30

This morning we leave Corte and start our day with a transfer of around 45 minutes to the start of our hike at the tiny hamlet of Vizzavona. By now we have reached the southern section of the GR20, and the terrain has changed to a slightly gentler landscape. We will have less rocky scrambling, and more opportunities to take in the views.  On arrival at Vizzavona, popular with tourists since the Victorian era, we join the route of the GR20 with a climb through beautiful beech and pine forests to the Bocca Palmente which sits at 1640m (5379ft). At the top there are great views to the island of Elba, and behind us we have the imposing bulk of Monte d'Oro which rises above Vizzavona. From the pass we wander down to the shepherd's huts at Alzeta and then to the U Cardu ridge, and a spectacular view is unveiled, including tomorrow's objective, Monte Renoso which sitting at 2352m (7714ft) is one of the highest mountains in the southern part of Corsica. The island of Corsica is famous for its granite backbone of mountains, about forty of which are higher than 2000m (6560ft). All are located on the s-shaped spine of the island which winds from north to south. At the end of our day we arrive at Capanelle and our gîte which has an excellent terrace for an evening aperitif.

Ascent: 1079m (3539ft) Descent: 352m (1154ft) Distance: 15.1km (9.5 miles) Duration: 6h00-6h30

Accommodation: Gîte - beds in dormitory

This morning we leave Capanelle to begin our climb of Monte Renoso, which is an excellent goal for the day. With the summit sitting at 2352m (7714ft) it is the highest mountain in southern Corsica. It's a great peak that is seldom visited by most people on the GR20. The view from the summit includes both coastlines, as well as Monte Cinto , Monte Incudine and Bavella. Monte Renoso is no tougher than previous days, and is there are just small easy sections scrambling. While the highest and most impressive mountains can be found in the northern parts the 2000ers in the south are more isolated and offer better views. Once we have enjoyed the summit we have a steep descent, mostly with only a faint trail, down to the shepherds huts in the lovely valley of I Pozzi. Then it's a hard to find trail through the forests to the plateau de Gialgone, where we have a further few hours to the Col de Verde. For those who want a more relaxed day, and who do not feel the urge to climb Monte Renoso, you can opt to stay on the true GR20 route today which is considerably easier: this is also the route we take in bad weather. If you decide to do this you will be self-guided as your guide will lead the team ascending Monte Renoso.

Ascent: 953m (3125ft) Descent: 1270 (4165ft) Distance: 15.7km (9.8 miles) Duration: 8h00

If we take the lower route:  Ascent: 600m (1968ft) Descent: 110m (360ft) Duration: 5h00

We leave our overnight to climb steadily through woodland aiming for a high ridge and the Refuge de Prati. The views from the ridge are stunning and if the weather is clear then yet again we can see both coasts with the island of Elba on the horizon.

Elba is the largest remaining stretch of land from the ancient tract that once connected the Italian peninsula to Corsica. It was also to Elba that Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled after his forced abdication in 1814. He may have been in exile but he was allowed to keep a personal guard of six hundred soldiers! He was nominally sovereign of Elba, although the nearby sea was patrolled by the French and British navies. During the 300 days that Napoleon stayed on the island, he carried out a series of economic and social reforms to improve the quality of life, but not sufficient to keep him there! He escaped to France on 26 February 1815.

Once we leave the Refuge de Prati the climb continues and we enjoy a section of scrambling. There are some exposed sections as we make our way to the Col de Laparo before a long descent to the traditional Corsican village of Cozzano.

Ascent: 750m (2460ft) Descent: 1300m (4264ft) Distance: 20km (12.4 miles) Duration: 8h00

Today we start by climbing through 'macquis', a type of shrub that grows densely on the mountains in Corsica, and is often scented by aromatic plants. This gives way to chestnut trees as we arrive at the impressive Arête a Mondi. As we arrived at the ridge we have a view down on the 'tented' community that surrounds the Refuge Usciola. We follow this ridge line which takes us to the Punta d'Usciolu at 1815m (5953ft), and then to the Punta di a Scaddatta at 1834m (6015ft) and then to our final pass today at Bocca di L'Agnonu. For the next few hours the route weaves through exciting notches on the ridge, sometimes exposed, but with relatively straightforward scrambling with wonderful views. We take a moment to catch our breath and take in the scenery before we start our descent through wonderful beech woodland, and eventually the pasture lands leading to our gîte at Il Croce. In the case of bad weather we will travel on a lower route today via the village of Zicavo. Tonight we will either be in a gîte or we will camp. Tents will be provided you do not have to carry one, but you do need your sleeping bag. Despite the remote location will have access to your luggage. 

Ascent: 1430m (4690ft) Descent: 742m (2433ft) Distance: 18km (11.25 miles) Duration: 8h00  

A spectacular day today which begins early morning with a hike to the Col d'Incudine, from where we have wonderful views back towards Monte Cinto, the highest peak in Corsica. We can also see the island of Sardinia in front of us, which lies immediately south of Corsica. It that isn't enough to keep the photographers happy we also have views to the Aiguilles de Bavella where we will soon be heading. First thought we have a descent on rocky slabs to the Refuge d'Asinau. The refuge takes its name from the seven Towers of Asinau which feature on the ridge we are heading for. Leaving the refuge we follow an easy woodland trail before a climb to the Aiguilles de Bavella, this variant offers a spectacular route through spires, and boulders, and we have a section of chains to help with conquering a steep rock slab. The Aiguilles de Bavella are rocky spikes of red granite that dominate the hill of the same name, the word 'aiguilles' means 'needles'. A good indication of the type of terrain we are tackling. 

Ascent: 1300m (4264ft) Descent: 1400m (4592ft) Distance: 20km (12.4 miles) Duration; 9h00-10h00  

Accommodation: Gîte - beds in dormitory, or private rooms

The final day is a lovely way to end the stunning GR20. Our hike offers wonderful views across the granite peaks of Corsica, before we enter our final pine forest.  After an easy stroll we begin to make our way up to the Refuge de Paliri where a cool drink is always welcome. This final section to Conca does not disappoint and the scenery remains spectacular right to the official end point of the Corsica GR20. Over the course of a truly spectacular two weeks you will have covered a total of 180km (112 miles), with approx 12,000m (39,360ft) of ascent and descent. That's no small achievement, and it is why this has to be one of the most challenging, but also rewarding long distance hikes in the world. We finish our day with a short transfer to Porto-Vecchio for a night by the sea. Tonight dinner is not included to allow you to venture out on the town and enjoy the sights and sounds of this beautiful resort. 

Ascent: 700m (2296ft) Descent: 1670m (5477ft) Distance: 19km (12 miles) Duration: 7h00

Today you have a free day to explore Porto-Vecchio, famous for its stunning beaches. There is plenty do to in Porto-Vecchio, and if you feel that you have had enough exercise then you can browse the boutiques, or sit by the sea and enjoy a well-earned rest. The history of the town is linked to the Genoese desire to exploit the numerous salt marshes and a citadel was built to keep guard on the port. The old part of the city has kept its Mediterranean charm with lively narrow streets, and many shops. Around the main square and the impressive Saint Jean Baptiste church, the old town comes alive late into the night. However, it is the nearby beaches, in particular Palombaggia for which the town is famous.

Dinner tonight is not included and you are free to explore the town. 

An early start this morning for our transfer back to Bastia airport.

It is always our aim to complete the proposed itinerary outlined above, however, it may be necessary for our guides/instructors to adjust the daily itinerary based on the weather conditions, group safety and enjoyment. 

On all our trips we aim to accommodate our guests in well-situated, clean, characterful, family run accommodation. Our suggested accommodation, listed below, is subject to availability at the time of booking. We have given details of our favoured venues and those we intend to use. If unavailable we will book alternative accommodation of a similar standard. Note that for this trip we have not provided details of ALL the accommodation we will use as we prefer to keep this out of the public domain.

Our trip fees are based on two people sharing a room. If you are travelling on your own your booking will be based on a twin bedroom sharing with someone of the same gender, what we call a 'twin' meaning two single beds in one bedroom. If you are booking as a single traveller you will share with someone of the same gender. In many cases a single room is available for a supplementary fee, but these can be in short supply and require early booking. Note that it is very rare to have air conditioning in European mountain areas, and most bedrooms do not have this facility.

The accommodation on the GR20 has a reputation for not being the most comfortable of mountain accommodation, but we aim to use hotels and privately-run gîtes which are comfortable, and clean. 

It includes: 6 nights in hotels, 6 nights in gîtes, 1 night in a traditional mountain refuge & 1 or 2 nights camping. Your luggage will be transported to each accommodation except on 2 nights (Day 4 & 6) when you will be staying in remote locations. On these nights you will be required to carry a few extra items in your day pack.

A single room may be available for solo travellers in Calvi, Corte and Porto Vecchio, but will incur a supplement and is dependent on early booking as the number of single rooms is limited. 

Calvi Hôtel

The Calvi Hôtel  is in a gorgeous location right beside a sandy beach on the outskirts of the town of Calvi. A short walk under the palm trees and you will find yourself right beside the sea. The hotel is light, airy and modern. There are also a number of seaside bars within easy reach of the hotel. You can walk into town to explore the historic streets in 10 minutes or so.

Hotel Le Chalet, Haut Asco

Tonight our destination is the Hotel Le Chalet which is situated at the foot of Monte Cinto, the highest mountain in Corsica. It was built in 1964 and has 28 bedrooms with en suite facilities. It has a terrace which is a great place to enjoy the views and watch the sunset. 

Bergeries de Vallone

This evening we are truly under the stars as we camp beside the ancient shepherd's hut at the Bergeries de Vallon. You do not need to carry any camping gear as we will organise tents and sleeping mats. You do, however, need to carry your sleeping bag.  Tonight you will not have access to your luggage due to the remote location of our overnight.  The Bergeries de Vallon is  an old shepherd's hut situated in a really lovely setting, with rock pools nearby for bathing.  

Hotel Castel Vergio, Castel de Verghio,

We finish today at the old ski station at Castel de Verghio, where we have our hotel of the same name. Well, nearly the same name, but as often in Corsica there are several variations on spelling!  The hotel is high in the mountains and right on the GR20, as well as several other hiking routes. It was fully renovated in 2010 and now has 29 bedrooms with balconies, and en suite facilities.  

Refuge de la Sega

We are in the forests in the mountains for our overnight at the Refuge de la Sega.  The Sega is run by Frederique and Marie, a mother and daughter team who give a warm welcome. The refuge is in a lovely location away from the crowds, with stunning rock pools nearby for a freshening swim before dinner. The accommodation will be either in dormitories, or in tents in the grounds of the refuge.

A 'refuge' is simple accommodation in the mountains where we can sleep and have our meals provided. They are run by 'guardians' or 'guardiennes' if the team is female. For many it is a way of life, rather than a career and we are grateful for these people who are happy to spend the summer months in remote areas providing hikers with a service. Thank you!

Hotel du Nord, Corte

In Corte we stay in the Hotel du Nord which dates back to 1861. It has now been renovated to offer guests comfort without losing any of its charm. The rooms are equipped with an LCD TV with Satellite connection, a telephone, a hairdryer, a fan, and free Wi-Fi connection. The hotel is situated in the mountains, but in the centre of Corte. It does a great breakfast buffet!

Gîte U Fugone, Capanelle

The Gîte U Fugone  is full of character. It was built beside the GR20 more than 30 years ago and has been welcoming hikers ever since. It is run by the Maurizi family; Régine, her son Roger-Philippe, and her daughter Laure. It is situated in an ideal spot in a lovely setting. Accommodation here will be dormitory style. 

Relais San Petru di Verde, Col de Verde

The Relais San Petru de Verde is in the heart of Corsica, near Col Verde at the top of the Taravo Valley. The Relais is set in a natural and wild environment surrounded by a mature forest of Laricio pine trees, beech and firs. There are hot showers and a camping area. We will most likely be in dormitories or in the small chalets scattered around the grounds of the Relais.

Bergerie de Croci, Il Croce

Tonight at the Bergerie de Croci we will either be in a dormitories or we will camp. As stated previously tents will be provided, you do not have to carry them, but you do need your sleeping bag. You will, however, have access to your luggage. The facilities are simple and accommodation basic. A case of feeling like we are way out in the wilds!

Golden Tulip, Porto Vecchio

The four star  Golden Tulip  hotel is a touch of luxury and a fitting end to your time on the GR20. You could enjoy your time relaxing by the pool and soaking up the views of the port. Alternatively you could walk to the stunning Cala Verde beach and take a dip in the sea.  The rooms are modern and and well equipped with a flat screen tv, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities, air conditioning and WiFi.

You can take the  ferry  from mainland France or Italy to the island of Corsica, but would only recommend this if you are travelling with a car as public transport is not frequent. 

If you decide to fly you will travel to Bastia airport where we will collect you on the Sunday. You can also choose to arrive the evening before and meet the group at Bastia airport for the transfer to Calvi. Alternatively, you may prefer to fly direct to Calvi and meet at the group hotel, particularly those coming from the UK, as there is a direct flight from Gatwick to Calvi.

Arrival at Bastia Airport

We have included a single-timed transfer from Bastia Airport to Calvi on the trip Arrival day. If your flight is significantly delayed you may need to take a private transfer and it is worth checking your travel insurance will cover this 2 hour journey. Bastia has the largest choice of flights from various European destinations. 

For those joining at the airport, you will meet the group between 1100 hrs - 1300 hrs, depending on flight times. We will let you know the meeting time when we have everyone's flight details, usually about two weeks before departure. If everyone arrives on an earlier flight, we will depart early. 

There is a choice of airports in terms of flying to Bastia: if the UK flights don't work for you, then you can look at arriving from Paris, Nice, Marseille, Toulouse, Lyon, Lille, Vienna and Basel.  Skyscanner  gives various options.

Bastia Airport is 17 km (10.6 miles) from the town centre. If you’re staying near the airport, then we recommend Hotel Poretta, Hotel Le Lido or Chez Walter. Or Hotel Pineto in Biguglia, next to the sea, which is 9km (5.6 miles) from the airport. 

Buses run (infrequently) from the airport to Bastia centre.

Arrival at Calvi

It is also a really good option to fly to Calvi and make your own way to the group hotel. We normally hold a briefing before dinner and would ask that you arrive by 1800 hrs. Note that Calvi is only suitable for the arrival at the beginning of the trip - your departure airport will need to be either Bastia or Figari.

Departure from Bastia Airport

At the end of the trip, we include an early single-timed transfer to Bastia Airport for flights departing after mid-day. If you have a long wait for your flight, we recommend booking a day room at the Hotel Poretta which is within walking distance of the airport, and has an outdoor pool. With a lot of luggage you may want to get a taxi to the hotel even although the distance is short. 

Departure from Figari Airport

Figari airport is only a 25 minute drive from our end hotel in Porto Vecchio, compared to 2h50 to Bastia. We do not include this for the group departure transfer as Bastia has more flight options. A taxi from Porto Vecchio to Figari is not expensive and we can help co-ordinate taxi shares for those who would like to this option.

Travel in general

If you are planning to extend your holiday and stay on in Corsica it is worth noting the public transport system is not frequent and taxis are expensive. A good resource for onward travel is the  Corsica bus  website.

When booking a trip we ask you to acquire insurance to cover you for the following:

  • Mountain Rescue Insurance

It is a condition of booking that you are insured against medical expenses, injury, illness, death, mountain rescue, cost of repatriation and personal accident risks. Please ensure that your insurance covers you to the maximum altitude given on your trip itinerary. The maximum altitude for any trip can be checked on the 'At A Glance' box on each trip page. Most of our trips have a maximum altitude of 3,000 metres. If you are unsure or are joining a bespoke trip, then please ask us for specific details.

Trip Cancellation/Curtailment Insurance

You should also have insurance to cover trip cancellation and curtailment. Please note that your deposit and balance payments are non-refundable, unless it is Tracks and Trails who cancel the trip due to a failure to reach the required minimum numbers. In this case we will offer you a refund or the option of transferring to another trip if one is available. We also advise that you should have insurance which covers baggage loss/equipment damage as Tracks and Trails will not be held responsible for loss/damage to baggage/equipment.

COVID-19 Insurance

As well as medical cover, we recommend that you have appropriate travel insurance so that if you fall ill and test positive for COVID-19 prior to (or during) your trip, you will be financially covered for cancelling your trip. You should also consider booking a policy that covers you if you have to cancel or curtail your holiday because you have to self-isolate. If you choose to cancel, cancellation charges will be payable, but if the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges. Please read the clauses below detailing trip cancellation and curtailment.

Travel Insurance covering COVID-19 is now available from a number of suppliers, Campbell Irvine, Trailfinders and Staysure . Please check their websites for the latest information on what is and isn't covered. It is likely that more companies will offer COVID related cover in the future.

All of the above insurances are detailed in our Terms and Conditions . 

If you are joining a trip in the UK helicopter/mountain rescue insurance is not required as this is a free service.

For further details, please read the Insurance section  on our website.

When packing for a trip in the mountains it is important to have appropriate equipment and clothing. This kit list features items we believe are necessary for the weather you might encounter and accommodation you will be staying in. 

At least once each summer we experience unseasonal conditions that really do make every item on the kit list essential. If you do not have the correct kit, our guide may ask you to leave the trip until you have purchased the necessary items. Every year we experience unseasonal snow at least once. It can also rain very heavily and temperatures can go from being around 35° Celsius (96° F) one week, to below ) 0° (32° F) the next. So, if it rains, you will need waterproof jackets AND trousers, and will be glad of several pairs of gloves. If it snows, you will need decent hiking boots (NOT hiking trainers), walking poles, warm clothes and warm hat and gloves. It is also possible to experience a heatwave. If this happens, you will likely require numerous sachets of rehydration salts and will need to carry 3-4L of water. A sun hat will be absolutely essential.

For a fuller explanation of the kit listed below you can check out Lindsay's tips and tricks for the GR20 here . 

  • Summer walking boots - these should be waterproof and comfortable. The terrain is very rough and your boots should be in good condition, there is nowhere to buy new kit on the route apart from Corte. We have no objection to you using ‘low cut walking shoes’ if you are used to them
  • Walking Poles – highly recommended. There are very long and steep descents
  • Rucksack – 35-45 litres. Any bigger and it will be too heavy. Check before you arrive that you can fit everything you need for an overnight stay, including your sleeping bag. You may also be asked to carry a small item of group kit. Your rucksack should have a chest and waist strap and you should try using it loaded before your trip
  • Rucksack liner and cover - either a plastic bag or a roll-top 'Exped' bag. It rarely rains, but when it does it can be torrential!
  • Water container – able to carry at least 4 litres of water. We advise a hydration tube system such as Platypus, plus 1 litre Nalgene bottle. It is difficult to drink enough if you have to remove your rucksack to access a bottle. For some days 2 litres will be sufficient, but other days there are no opportunities to fill up
  • Plastic box – eg Tupperware box. This is for your lunch as some refuges provide a pasta or lentil salad. Approximately 0.6-0.8 litres will be enough. Label it with your name, both on the lid, and the box, and if you are vegetarian make this obvious on the box
  • Fork/spoon/spork - for eating picnic lunches
  • Mobile phone – there is phone reception for a large part of the trip. It is a good idea to have a phone in case of emergency or if you need to leave the group for any reason
  • Waterproof jacket - this MUST be waterproof. We can encounter heavy rain showers in the mountains and you must be able to stay dry and warm
  • Waterproof over trousers - You should be able to take them on and off without removing your boots. We reserve the right to ask you to miss a day of the trip if you are not properly equipped for the weather
  • Trousers - walking trousers which allow free movement. You may find it is too hot for trousers, but they offer protection on the days when we walk through the 'macquis' (thorny scrub)
  • Shorts/skort
  • Gloves – we recommend 2 pairs (a thin pair and a thicker warmer pair)
  • Base layer e.g. t-shirt, thermal tops – wicking shirts are better than cotton as they dry faster
  • Fleece jacket/top
  • Socks - technical walking socks (2/3 pairs)
  • Duvet jacket / or second warm top
  • Thermal leggings - optional, and only needed if a cold day
  • Lightweight footwear for hotel use

Dormitory nights in Refuges/Gîte 

  • Sleeping bag - a lightweight sleeping bag, which for some parts of the journey, you will need to carry on consecutive days. It can be chilly at night, but a 3-season sleeping bag with a comfort rating of around 3 to 5° Celsius (37-41°F) will be enough. A lightweight one should be around 1kg (2.2lbs) or less
  • Sleeping bag liner – good for warm nights when a sleeping bag is too hot
  • Pillow - a lightweight/compact pillow or inflatable pillow. In some of the refuges pillows are not supplied
  • Ear plugs - strongly advised
  • Head torch - lightweight
  • Book/Music device – optional
  • Spare clothes to change in to in the evening
  • Wash bag – small lightweight mini-bottles/packets. Most airport departure lounges have a good stock of miniature shampoo, toothpaste, soap etc
  • Travel towel – towels are provided in the hotels, but not the refuges/gîtes
  • Toilet paper - bring a roll of toilet paper as many refuges do not provide it
  • Sunglasses – essential. The sun can be extremely strong in the mountains
  • Small bottle of Antibacterial hand wash
  • Toiletries – soap/shower gel as not all the accommodation will supply these
  • Swimwear – Corsica is famous for natural rock pools, so we will swim in these when we can
  • Flip-flops/sandals/crocs – for evenings to give your feet a break from your boots. As light as possible so that you can carry them with you for the nights when we do not have access to luggage
  • Head scarf/bandana to soak in the rivers to cool of - very useful
  • Washing liquid for clothes

Personal First Aid

  • Personal medication
  • Antiseptic cream/spray
  • Pain killers/anti-inflammatory
  • Glucose tablets/Energy gel
  • 2 x Re-hydration sachets – eg 'Dioralyte'
  • Throat lozenges
  • Blister plasters/tape - we advise that you use 'Strappal' tape
  • Selection of normal plasters/Band-Aid
  • Diarrhoea treatment - eg 'Immodium'
  • Antihistamine tablets
  • Insect repellent – there are mosquitoes at lower elevations
  • Insect - 'Afterbite' to reduce itching when bitten

Documentation

  • Passport and a paper copy
  • Credit Card
  • Cash – most refuges do not accept a credit card
  • Waterproof bag for documents 

Optional items

  • Penknife – to cut up lunch, meat/cheese
  • 'Thermarest' – mattresses are provided on the nights we camp so it is not worth buying a 'Thermarest' for the trip. However, if you have a light one and wish to use it then bring it with you
  • Water purifying tablets – water at refuges is sourced from springs. If you wish to purify your water that is a personal choice
  • 'Buff' – good for extra warmth if the weather changes, or sun protection for your neck on a hot day
  • Camera – spare memory cards
  • Multi plug adaptor – for charging various items
  • Travel kettle/tea bags- most hotels do not provide tea and coffee making facilities
  • Padlock - for your luggage being transferred 
  • Power pack - for charging phones/gps etc
  • Teabags - some accommodation provide kettles in the bedrooms

Additional Information

Walking Boots

We cannot stress enough that the GR20 is rugged underfoot, and if your walking boots are showing signs of wear, the GR20 will almost certainly finish them off. Make sure your boots are in good condition before arriving as there are no gear shops on the hike, apart from a small shop in Corte in the middle of the trip. If you have any new equipment such as a rucksack or walking boots, it is a good idea to have used them a few times before the trip in order to avoid blisters/sore spots.

Walking Poles

Walking poles will really help your knees, and if you haven’t used them before, it would be a good idea to practice beforehand so they are not a hindrance. 

With regard to hydration we keep up a steady pace for much of the day and it can be difficult to take in enough water if you have to remove your pack to access your water bottles, and for this reason we recommend a hydration system. However, having witnessed various disasters over the years with hydration systems, for example, your entire supply of water disappearing due to a leak, we recommend using a hydration system AND water bottles to avoid this situation. There are not always places to fill up water during the day, so on some days we have to carry all of our water for that day.

1x Medium sized kit bag/holdall or suitcase, preferably on wheels. Keep the weight to 15kg (33lbs) or below. Luggage with wheels is best. Be aware that your luggage is being transported by taxi and the taxi companies only accept one bag per guest. If you have more than one bag we may have to pay extra and if this is the case we would ask you to refund Tracks and Trails. Ensure you are able to carry your luggage upstairs if necessary, as some of the hotels do not have lifts, and you may have to walk across rough ground on campsites with it. Carry enough dry bags/plastic bags to protect the contents of your luggage bag, which on occasion may be left outside. When it does rain it can be torrential and you may find the contents are wet.

Dinners and lunches are plentiful, but the breakfasts in the more basic accommodation are standard French Refuge issue, ie dry bread and jam. You may want to bring extra items such as dried fruit, energy bars etc. Supplementary snack bars/chocolate/trail mixes are also recommended especially for those with vegetarian, gluten free or celiac diets. Please read the section under 'Trip Information' which refers to 'Food and Water' as it is not easy for remote locations to cater for gluten free or vegan diets. 

Leaders are all first aid trained and carry their own first aid kit

On many of our trips there will be an element of 'group kit' which will be shared amongst our guests. As mountain people you will be used to team work and working together to the mutual benefit and safety of the group.

The 'group kit' will be minimal and usually just a case of sharing a few lightweight 'survival shelters'. For example on a week-long trip you may carry a small shelter for just one day before passing it on to the next person. 

If you are booking a trip in winter there will be a few additional safety items. These will be distributed in such a way that no one is over burdened. 

Other group items necessary for safety and comfort will be carried by your guide/instructor.

For each of our trips a minimum number of guests is required before we can confirm that your trip will go-ahead. The minimum and maximum number of guests on your trip is displayed in the 'At a Glance' box on the righthand side of the trip page. 

We strongly advise you do not book travel until we have confirmed your trip is 'guaranteed' to run. If you book travel before we have confirmed it is 'guaranteed' we cannot be held responsible for any financial loss if the trip does not go ahead.

When booking a holiday as a solo traveller a twin bedded room comprising of two single beds, is booked as standard. This will be with someone of the same gender unless you request to pay extra for your own room. Single rooms are often limited in supply so if you would like to pay a supplement for a single room we urge you to get in touch as soon as possible. The single supplement for this trip is £700-£900.

We go to great lengths to work with first class guides who are passionate about their work. They are all fully qualified, insured, and hold the correct documentation.

Please note your guide has complete discretion to make a daily decision on whether or not to take the advertised route based on the weather and the ability of the members of the group. They have our authority to make any route changes they believe are necessary in the interests of safety and enjoyment. 

Your hiking guide will be a fully qualified and experienced  International Mountain Leader . International Mountain Leaders are not only qualified to ensure the safe management of the group, but are also a source of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, and traditions of the area which you are visiting. You can learn more about our guides and instructors on the About Us page. 

We would like to make it clear that due to the wild and rocky nature of the terrain on the GR20 that your guide also has complete discretion to ask you to leave the trip if your fitness and ability adversely impacts on safety. 

The GR20 in Corsica is a very tough trek with long walking days in succession.  It certainly earns its reputation as one of the toughest treks in Europe. You must be fit and accustomed to walking in the mountains, and happy to deal with sections of rocky scrambling where you might need to pull on chains, and climb ladders. It is not a suitable trip for those who suffer from vertigo, nor is it a trip for those who are not sure-footed and confident, as there is more technical terrain than you might think for what is essentially a walking path. 

The GR20 is not always accessible by road, and it is not easy to simply miss a day of hiking and take a rest. As the days are long, we cannot afford to go too slowly (as you may be used to doing on easier treks).  We will hike for around 8h00 each day, and some days are 9h00 to 10h00. We need to maintain a pace which we would describe as 'steady' without too many stops. Some of the ascents are long, and the descents are steep and rocky, and these can be challenging for those with knee issues.

We have graded the trip challenging:

"Our toughest trips are those we deem to be ‘challenging’. By this we mean challenging physically and mentally. You need a high level of fitness, considerable previous experience of multi day walking trips, and a good attitude. You should enjoy walking for full days and be prepared to cope with regular ascents/descents of between 1300-1800m (4264-5904ft), and crossing passes at up to 3500m (11,480ft). You need to be able to deal with bad weather and to be able to look after your self in terms of being too cold, too hot, too wet, too tired. You do not need to be an athlete, but you do need to know what it is like to walk all day to get to where you are going. You should be able to cope with rough and loose terrain, and deal with exposed sections of paths, and occasional sections of cabling or ladders to assist on steep ground. Expect to walk for up to 9 hours a day."

On this point-to-point trip you will have luggage support on all but 2 of the nights, which means your bags are transferred each day to the next accommodation and you only need to carry a small/medium sized 'rucksack' for items you might need during the course of the day. Please refer to the kit list for this trip for guidance on the size of rucksack required. On the nights you are in the mountain huts you will need to carry just a few extra items in your rucksack.

As your luggage will be moved along the route by taxi we ask that you keep the weight to a maximum of 15kgs (33lbs), and ONE bag per person. Many of the taxi companies who move your bags impose a 15kg (33lbs) limit and restrict the number of bags simply because they have to unload and reload the vehicle many times each day. If you take more than one bag you may be asked to pay a supplement. Also with regard to weight be aware that you may have to carry your luggage to your bedroom, which may involve climbing several flights of stairs as not all hotels have elevators. Luggage on wheels is generally a good idea.

On our GR20 walking trip lunches are included in your trip fee except for Calvi on your arrival day and in Bonifacio on your rest day. Your kit list will ask you to bring a plastic 'Tupperware' lunch box and cutlery as you will often be given a pasta or lentil salad as well as other items for lunch.  Approximately 0.6-0.8 litres will be adequate. Label it with your name, and if you are vegetarian please make this obvious on the box.

On your itinerary you will find an indication of the amount of ascent and descent you can expect each day. This offers a guideline to how much effort might be expended each day and allows you to decide, based on previous experience, if your fitness and stamina are correct for the trip. 

We make every attempt to ensure these statistics are as accurate as possible, but ask you to note that the most modern of technology used to record these details can show considerable variations in terms of ascent, descent, and in particular distance. In other words no two people using GPS devices on the same route will have exactly the same details recorded at the end of the day. 

The statistics given should be used as a 'general' indication of the effort required. 

GR20 – Corsica by Paddy Dillon (A Cicerone Guide)

Corsica Trekking GR20 by David Abram (Trailblazer Guide)

Rough Guide or Lonely Planet Guide to Corsica

Your leader will carry the correct maps and you are not expected to navigate, but if you would like to have some maps of the route then the 1:60,000 Didier Richard maps cover the whole route on two maps – Haute Corse and Corse du Sud.

If you prefer to have the route in more detail, you need six of the 1:25,000 IGN French maps:

4149 OT Calvi

4250 OT Corte and Monte Cinto

4251 OT Monte d’Oro and Monte Rotondo

4252 OT Monte Renoso

4253 OT Petreto-Bicchiasano and Zicavo

4253 ET Aiguilles de Bavella and Solenzara

If you would like to order any of these maps in advance then please let us know and we can add them to your order – we can either post them to you, or give them to you at the start of the trip. The price is approximately £15 each for the IGN maps, and £14 each for the Didier Richard 1:60,000 maps, plus postage if applicable.

On the island of Corsica the weather during the summer months is normally clear and warm. The snow should have melted by around late June, and July is the hottest month with the least amount of rainfall, with June, August and September also being relatively dry. The temperatures in the summer can range from  5°Celsius  (41°F) to around 30°Celsius (86°F), but note that in July 2013 and 2015 it did reach 36°C (96.8°F).

It is generally hot and dry, but due to the mountainous nature of the terrain it is not uncommon to have sudden thunder storms, harsh wind, heavy rain, hail and sometimes even snow, so it is important to be prepared for any eventuality.

At least once per summer we experience unseasonal conditions that really do make every item on the kit list essential. If you do not have the correct kit, our guide may ask you to leave the trip until you have purchased the necessary items. Every year we experience unseasonal snow at least once. It can also rain heavily and temperatures can be erratic, in the mid 30°Celsius (96°F) one week, to below 0°Celsius (32°F) the next. So, if it rains, you will need waterproof jackets AND trousers, and several pairs of gloves. If it snows, you will need decent hiking boots (NOT hiking trainers), walking poles, warm clothes and warm hat and gloves. It's also essential that you can put your waterproof trousers on without removing your boots.

It is possible to experience several weeks of heatwave at a time. If this happens, you will likely get through numerous sachets of rehydration salts and will need to be carrying 3-4L of water, and a sun hat will be essential.

It is useful to arrive at your destination with some cash in the local currency, however, on most occasions it is relatively easy to visit a 'cash machine' after arrival and withdraw money on a credit or debit card. Some of our locations are an exception to this in particular Norway, where the accommodation will often have no facilities for withdrawing cash, but they will take a credit card. 

On many of our trips we will visit remote cafes/farms where it is wonderful to enjoy a drink and a cake, at places such as these they will often only accept payment in the local currency in cash.

You will need money for lunch in Calvi, and dinners in Calvi, Corte and Porto Vecchio. For dinner we find that between 25-30 Euros per dinner is sufficient, while 10-15 Euros per day for drinks and snacks should be enough.  For your two week trip you should have between 300-400 Euros in cash. Bottled water, wine, beer and soft drinks are available at almost all of the refuges, and you might find that the hot weather makes you consume more cans of soft drink than would be normal for you. There are cashpoints at Bastia airport, at Calvi, Corte and Bonifacio. Credit cards are not accepted in the refuges, and there will be no money-changing facilities throughout the trip so please do not bring cash in another currency, nor travellers cheques, as you will not be able to use them. Please note that arriving on a Sunday, the banks will be closed.

On our trips we encourage you to experience local tastes and dishes.

The breakfasts on this trip are continental style and usually consist of a hot drink with bread and jam. Some people find they prefer to supplement their breakfasts with other snacks. The picnic lunches are usually tasty, and plentiful, varying from sandwiches to local meats and cheeses to pasta or lentil salad and a piece of fruit. The dinners are hearty, but basic 3-course meals, perfect for hard days in the mountains.

If you are vegetarian then this is not a problem as the hotels/refuges are used to being asked for vegetarian meals. However, a love of omelettes will be necessary! Corsican mountain refuges/gites have not fully grasped the concept of vegetarian food, and you will almost always be served an omelette, with varying accompaniments. Sometimes they will give you fish, so do remember to tell us whether fish is acceptable. We try to ask for different dishes such as pasta and tomato sauce, but this is met with reluctance. We recommend that you bring with you: nuts, dried fruit, crackers, oatcakes and extra snacks.

If you have a 'special' diet because of an allergy or intolerance to a certain food type which will make you ill the accommodation will cater for this as best they can, eg gluten free, nut free, lactose free.

If you have a 'special' diet which is NOT because of an allergy or intolerance, and is not 'veggie' then we apologise, but we cannot cater for this.  Our accommodation will try to cater for those with vegan diets, but in remote refuges in the mountains this is difficult. The accommodation on the popular routes will be catering for many people each evening, in some cases up to 70/100 meals per night, 7 days a week, and realistically they cannot produce many different meal options unless the food will result in illness.

The countries we visit all have tap water which is drinkable. If for any reason a particular hotel or mountain hut is having a problem with a remote mountain water supply they will normally post a sign over the tap indicating that you must not drink the water.

Due to rising temperatures in the summer months some mountain huts are having to restrict water usage. Which may mean that you are unable to shower in some mountain refuges.

At all times you are welcome to ask your guide/instructor if the water can be drunk. We would ask, for environmental reasons, that you avoid using single-use plastic bottles, and bring a water bottle that can be used repeatedly.

A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. Please check the relevant embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting, paying attention to your citizenship. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.  

We ask that you carry a paper copy of your passport with you on your trip. We suggest keeping your passport in your rucksack, and a paper copy of your passport in any luggage you might have. If your trip is without luggage transfers then keep a paper copy somewhere in your rucksack, separate from your original document. 

We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at:

Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country

Note that if your trip involves staying in a mountain refuge/rifugio/hut that electric sockets may be in short supply and for that night you may not be able to charge any items. Although the accommodation will have electricity this will often be supplied by solar panels or a generator and limited to use by the staff. For this reason we advise that carrying a small slimline and lightweight 'battery pack' can be very useful for recharging phones which many of you will also use as your camera. 

We work with experienced and professional guides who are passionate about their work. Over the years we have always strived to pursue adventurous routes in special places where you can truly experience the pleasure of a long distance hike which takes you into the wild mountains and off the beaten track. With all our trips we work with qualified International Mountain Leaders who have spent years training to earn the right to work in the mountains. Tracks and Trails is a small company more interested in the enjoyment of our clients than making huge profits, and as a result we tend to have small groups, experienced leaders and happy clients.

Before booking consider whether you expect to be in the appropriate physical condition on the date of your  departure to allow you to fully participate in and enjoy your holiday. If you have any doubts because of an illness or injury it would be advisable to check with your doctor.

For UK residents travelling to an EU country you should obtain and bring with you a free Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). This entitles you to state provided medical treatment in certain European countries, but is not a substitute for medical travel insurance.

If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card ( EHIC ) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you’ll need to apply for a GHIC to replace it. The UK Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) lets you get state healthcare in Europe at a reduced cost or sometimes for free. Please check this before departing. We advise that you always carry your insurance documents with details of the Emergency Medical telephone number for your insurance provider, and your policy number. 

We feel strongly about protecting the environment and do not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We would ask that you arrive with a ‘water bottle’ or ‘hydration system’ that can be used repeatedly. We would point out that we operate a ‘zero tolerance’ for rubbish, and would ask you to remove all your rubbish items from the mountain even those you consider to be bio-degradable. In particular we ask that you remove any toilet tissue.

You can read our full policy here.

Working across international boundaries, and with various currencies means that the price of our trips can change overnight. We have, however, undertaken to guarantee that once you have paid your deposit the price of your trip is fixed. In this respect we urge you to book early to ensure that you receive the price advertised on our website. The website price may increase due to currency fluctuations, but we guarantee that the price advertised on the date of your booking will be maintained in your individual case. 

The refuges along the GR20 are, unfortunately, renowned for bed bugs, and this is one of the main reasons we avoid the huts. We do not stay in any establishment where they have been reported (unlike other operators): we are either in hotels or private gîtes, so we are not so likely to encounter them. However, it is worth noting that at the end of each trip, we recommend that you wash all your clothes at quite a high temperature, just on the off-chance that they have come into contact with these mites.

Trip Dates and Prices

Prices may vary depending on date.

What's Included

  • The services of a fully qualified International Mountain Leader
  • Fourteen nights accommodation: 6 nights in hotels, 6 nights in gîtes, 1 night in a refuge & 1 night camping
  • Ten evening meals, not including those listed below
  • All transport including airport transfers to and from Bastia
  • Luggage transfers on all but 2 nights
  • All packed lunches

What's Not Included

  • Travel Insurance
  • Evening meals in Calvi, Corte and Bonifacio
  • Lunch in Calvi (arrival day), and Porto Vecchio (rest day)
  • Transport, accommodation, expenses; if you cannot do the hikes
  • Personal drinks and snacks

Grade: Expert

At a glance, hiking the gr20: seen from the air.

trek gr20 corse

A film by Victor Delage which shows the Corsican landscape and terrain you will encounter on this amazing long distance journey.

Bonifacio: A truly Corsican town.

trek gr20 corse

A short film to introduce you to Bonifacio which claims to be the "Picturesque Capital' of Corsica. You will have a rest day here at the end of your trip to enjoy the sights.

Why book with T&T?

  • Highly professional guides
  • Personal service guaranteed 
  • Attention to detail throughout
  • Explore off the beaten track
  • Single rooms on request
  • No surcharge guaranteed

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How does this work? Well, if you feel that something about your trip didn’t’ meet your expectations, let us know. We will then work to gather the details and figure out where things went wrong. If something indeed wasn’t as described, or went wrong with your trip, and the problem was within the control of either oursleves, the guide or the tour company, we will then work out a refund with you that’s proportional to the scale of the problem.

Obviously the best way to make a great trip is to tell your local guide or tour operator and give them the chance to fix the solution while you are on your trip. Most things can be solved by telling your guide when the issue develops. If that doesn’t solve it, then email us right away. Please don’t wait to voice your concerns until the trip is over, as it’s much harder to solve issues after the fact.

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Complete GR20 Trek

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Trek the complete GR20 trail across the stunning island of Corsica

Hikers on the third day of trekking between Bonifatu and Haut Asco on GR20 trek in Corsica

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Complete GR20 Trek Tour Details

Overview for complete gr20 trek.

The magnificent GR20 trail in Corsica is one of the most challenging treks in Europe. While not as popular as many treks in the Alps, the charm of Corsica and the incredible beauty makes the GR20 among the best treks in the world.

This self-guided trekking tour takes you on an incredible journey over more than 150 km, experiencing the complete GR20 trail through the rugged and scenic mountains on the island of Corsica.

Each new turn in the GR20 offers you a memorable view as you explore scenic overlooks and mountain peaks, walking along rocky ridgelines and through lush and shady valleys. Corsica offers a rich diversity of plant and animal life in a breathtaking landscape that you won’t soon forget. As you transition from the northern section of the GR20 to the southern section, spend a day enjoying civilization and learning about Corte, Corsica’s historic capital. With meals and accommodations planned for you, you are sure to enjoy this self-guided tour of the complete GR20 to the absolute fullest. Book your GR20 adventure today!

Itinerary for Complete GR20 Trek

Taxi to calenzana then trek to bonifatu.

After arriving in Calvi, take a taxi (included) to the village of Calenzana. This is the official starting point for the GR20 trail. Hike through the forest today, passing amazing scenic overlooks where you can see the historic villages of the Balagne region. After about 4 hours of walking, you’ll come to Bonifatu, your stop for the night.

Trek to Haut Asco

Get an early start after breakfast today and be prepared for a long day. Leaving Bonifatu, you’ll cross several rivers, then come to the famous Spasimata footbridge. This bridge is 30 m (98 feet) long and is a great location to take photos of the beautiful waterfall below it. Continue to the Muvrella Valley, named for a type of wild sheep also known as mouflon, where you’ll find a small lake. You’ll pass many incredible viewpoints where you can pause to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. Finish today’s trek at the foot of Corsica’s highest summit, Monte Cinto (2,706 m / 8,878’).

Trek to Vallone

The traditional GR20 route has been rerouted to avoid the Cirque de la Solitude, an area which has been closed by park authorities since a huge landslide occurred there in 2015. Today’s trek is long and strenuous but crosses the amazing terrain around Monte Cintu and the Pointe des Éboulis (2,602 m / 8,537’). After you reach the Bocca Minuta (2,218 m / 7,277‘), which marks the end of the Cirque de la Solitude, you’ll descend into the Straciaconne Valley. Watch for the wild mouflon sheep that call this valley home. Stop for the night at the shepherd’s hut in Vallone, where you’ll spend a beautiful night camped out under the stars. Note that your bags will not be transferred to the Bergerie tonight, so you’ll take a small bag with you during the day. Your bags will be waiting for you in Verghio.

Trek to Verghio

Explore the heart of the island of Corsica today as you hike through the Niolu Valley. Today’s views include some of Corsica’s most incredible and beautiful summits, the Paglia Orba (2,525 m / 8,284’) and the distinctive Capu Tafunatu (2,335 m / 7,661’). On a clear day, you can see an incredible view all the way to the Gulf of Porto. Then descend again into the Golo Valley and the Verghio forest. In Radule, visit the shepherd’s hut, and pause to refresh yourself in the natural pools along the trail. Spend the night at the Castel di Verghio.

Trek to Manganu Refuge

Begin today by crossing the Col de Saint-Pierre (Bocca San Pedru in Corsican) and the Bocca a Reta. From this magical place, you’ll find a breathtaking view of the rugged coastline as it plunges into the sparkling blue Mediterranean. You can also see the Lake of Ninu, which was formed by a glacial crater and is surrounded by lush green vegetation. Watch for wild horses grazing peacefully beside the lake, which is surrounded by bright green pozzines. Spend your night at the Manganu Refuge.

Trek to Petra Piana

Trek through a plateau filled with streams and pozzines, before arriving at the Capitellu Breach for jaw-dropping views of the Melu and Capitellu lakes. After putting in a strong effort on the way to Bocca Muzella at 2206m, you will make a descent into the Petra Piana refuge, where you will stay for the night.

Trek to l’Onda

A short stage with panoramic views will see you trek between the Monte Rotondo and Monte d’Oro Massifs. Extra caution will be needed to traverse the narrow passages and windy corridors, but on a clear day you will experience beautiful views that extend out to the Gulf of Ajaccio.

Trek to Vizzavona

On the last day along the northern section of the GR20, you will make your way towards Vizzavona through the beautifully scenic Agnone Valley at the base of the majestic Monte d’Oro. Once you have crossed the Turtettu footbridge, you will pass by countless streams and small waterfalls set along the forest, before eventually arriving at the end of the trail in Vizzavona.

Trek to Capanelle

Begin your walk in a grove of beech trees in the forest of Vizzavona. Then climb to the Palmente Pass where you’ll find incredible views overlooking the Diana and Urbino Lakes. Continue along the eastern slope and you’ll come to a shepherd’s hut at Alzeta. Follow a traditional mule path to reach Capanelle and your gite for the night.

Trek to Col de Verde

Leaving Capanelle in the morning, continue your hike to the sheepfolds of Traghjete. From here, trek to the Ghialgone plateau. When you reach the I Spiazzi footbridge, you can choose to stop to take a refreshing dip in the stream before continuing through the Marmano forest. In Col de Verde (Corsican Bocca di Verde), you’ll stop for dinner and a good night’s rest in a gite.

Trek to Cozzano

Begin your day with a climb to the Bocca d’Oro pass, then hike across the alpine fields of the Prato plateau. This ridgeline offers a spectacular view of the beautiful Taravo River and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea to the east. Complete this incredible day with a hike to Cozzano via the forest of St. Antoine. Eat dinner and spend the night in a gite in Cozzano.

Trek to Basseta

Get an early start today and begin your hike by climbing the Bocca di l’Usciolu. Follow the ridgeline and notice how the wind has sculpted the rocks to create a dreamlike landscape. Descend again through an ancient forest of alder trees, most of which are more than 100 years old. The vegetation begins to change as you approach the Cuscione plateau. When you reach Basseta, where there is a shepherd’s hut, you’ll eat dinner and spend the night in a gîte.

Trek to Bavella

As you continue to cross the Cuscione plateau, you’ll find the landscape gentler and full of grassy grazing lands and pozzines. Leaving this, you’ll climb up Mount Incudine (2,134 m / 7,001’), then descend again through the Asinao Valley. Here you’ll find the distinctive granite peaks known as the Needles of Bavella. Spend the night here in Bavella.

Trek to Conca

Day 7 of the tour begins with a laidback walk through the forest in the Southern Massif of Bavella to reach the refuge of Parliri. From here, you will make your descent of the dramatic mountain terrain on the way into Conca, where you can stop for a photo op next to the sign marking the end of the trail!

Departure Day

Sadly, your GR20 trekking adventure reaches its end after breakfast. Airport transfers can be arranged for an additional fee. Have a pleasant journey!

Tour Highlights

Highlights for complete gr20 trek.

Experience the GR20 as it treks near majestic peaks, including Monte Cintu, Paglia Orba, Capu Tafunatu, and Mount Incudine.

Watch as wild horses and mouflon sheep graze in lush green valleys and along picturesque lakeshores.

Visit the famous Spasimata suspension bridge and photograph an incredible waterfall.

Enjoy a refreshing dip in the many natural pools that form along lovely mountain streams.

What's Included

What's included for complete gr20 trek.

11 breakfasts, 10 picnic lunches, and 11 dinners are included in this tour.

Accommodations

Accommodations for 14 nights along the tour as described.

Transportation during the Tour

Taxi transfer from Calvi to Calenzana on day 1 is included. Please note that luggage transfers are not included but are available as an optional extra.

Also Included

  • Local assistance as needed
  • Information package with GPS tracks and route notes on app (a smartphone is required)
  • Local hotline

Not included

  • Airport transfers and any other transfers not listed as included, such as train from Corte to Vizzavona
  • Beverages or meals not listed as ‘included’
  • Admission to tourist attractions
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance

Optional Extras

  • Upgraded accommodation (4 nights in rooms instead of dormitories)
  • Airport transfers (prices on request)
  • Luggage transfers

Dates & Prices

Dates and prices for complete gr20 trek.

This self-guided tour in Corsica is always run as a private tour for your group only and the price depends on the size of your group as well as your travelling dates. The prices below are per person, sharing a double or a triple room.

  • Self-guided groups of 2+: from $1,395 USD per person

Accommodation

Accommodation for complete gr20 trek.

This tour is based in mountain gites (dormitory-style), as well as tent campsites near mountain huts. Some of the dormitory nights can be upgraded to a double occupancy room for an additional fee.

In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other, comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travelers You can pay for a supplement to have a private room in a hotel. Contact us for more details.

Haut Asco Mountain Hut

Enjoy the shade of the forest and lovely mountain views from your mountain hut.

Camping in tent near mountain hut

Enjoy a night in a tent along the route. Join other GR20 hikers on the patio for a cold drink before turning in for the night.

Bergerie, Vallone (Camping)

Camp under the stars at this Bergerie. Tents and sleeping mats are supplied. There is a nearby river for swimming on hot days!

Hôtel Castel di Verghio (Dormitory), Verghio

Discover why this hotel is so popular with hikers! It’s in a great location and you can enjoy wonderful mountain views.

Monte d’Oro, Vizzavona (Dormitory)

Enjoy great service, wonderful meals, and the camaraderie of other GR20 hikers at this popular trail stop. Great atmosphere!

U Fugone, Capanelle (Dormitory)

Basic but clean and sufficient accommodations with dormitory-style rooms and shared bathrooms. Everything you need with a great view.

Col de Verde, San Petru (Dormitory)

Stay in this cozy gite for the night at San Petru. Dormitory rooms are quite basic, but the atmosphere here is lovely.

Bella Vista, Cozzano (Dormitory)

This gite with dormitory-style rooms offers an accommodation near Cozzano. Enjoy the lovely surrounding views and the company of fellow hikers!

Bergeries, Basseta (Dormitory)

A simple hostel offering a restaurant and a comfortable place to sleep to GR20 hikers.

Auberge du Col, Bavella (Dormitory)

A small and basic trekking lodge that’s big on hospitality. A great way to end your trip!

Hotels on Standard Tour

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Tour Booking Process

Booking process for complete gr20 trek.

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Frequently asked questions for Complete GR20 Trek

How hard is the Complete GR20 Trek?

We rate this tour as a 4 / 5. You should be able to walk for up to 9 hours per day on rocky and uneven terrain. The trails are well-marked but can be challenging. Previous hiking experience required.

Do I need a visa to travel to France?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website , though you should verify with your government.

Are meals included on the Complete GR20 Trek?

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have Health and Medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance .

How do I get to Calvi to start this tour?

You can fly to the Calvi Sainte-Catherine Airport (CLY). Airport transfers from the airport to the hotel can be arranged for an additional fee. You can also reach Calvi by train from Ajaccio, Corte, or Bastia.

Where does the Complete GR20 Trek end?

The tour ends in Conca. You can fly home from the Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport (AJA) or the Figari Airport (FSC). Transfers are available for an additional fee. Buses are available to Ajaccio Airport during peak season (July/August).

What do I need to pack for this tour?

For Full GR20 Trek in Corsica we recommend having:

  • Clothes that are appropriate for the weather and comfortable for walking for several hours.
  • Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support, that are broken in, and good socks
  • Warm layers for varying weather conditions, including hat and gloves
  • Bathing suit and towel
  • Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
  • Backpack that can carry what you need for the day
  • Water bottle
  • Mess kit for lunch along the walk (resealable container, plastic mug, utensils)
  • Camera and accessories
  • First aid kit
  • Spending money
  • Maps and a compass
  • Mobile phone and charger
  • Optional items:
  • walking poles
  • utility pocketknife

Are luggage transfers included in the Complete GR20 trekking tour?

Luggage transfers are not included in the base tour price, but can be added as a supplement. If opting in, the service includes 1 bag 15 KG max per person. Please note this service is only available on 10 out of 14 days on the trek.

Do I need special vaccines to travel to France?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for France?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

When is the best time to travel to Corsica for this tour?

The best time to travel to Corsica for this trek is between early June and mid-September.

Tour Difficulty

Difficulty for complete gr20 trek.

Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

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trek gr20 corse

GR 20 : randonner en Corse du Nord au Sud

Le GR20 est le mythique sentier de randonnée qui traverse la Corse, de Calenzana (au Nord) à Conca (au sud). 200 km à travers les montagnes !

Il est annoncé comme étant l'un des sentiers de grande randonnée les plus durs d'Europe (mais aussi l'un des plus beaux). Il faut compter 16 jours pour un randonneur classique, à raison d'une étape par jour. Au nord du GR20 , vous ferez face à des passages très techniques (sur un sentier parfois escarpé), tandis qu'au sud , les chemins sont moins accidentés et le terrain moins valloné. 

Si vous souhaitez aller au bout de cette merveilleuse randonnée au coeur de la montagne corse , il est important de bien préparer votre GR20, d'analyser les étapes , de réserver les  refuges  ainsi que bien  préparer votre matériel .

Photo gr20

La randonnée du GR20, un des treks les plus durs

Ce site vous permet de trouver toutes les informations pour réussir votre GR20 . Cependant, n'oubliez pas que cette randonnée en Corse passe en haute montagne et nécessite une bonne condition physique.

Le GR20 ou Fra Li Monti est le sentier de grande randonnée n°20, il totalise plus de 11000 m de dénivelé positif. Le terrain est généralement escarpé : rochers, dalles lisses, passages en crêtes et hors chemins assez frequent.  Il ne croise la route que à peu d'endroit : Asco, Col de Vergio, Col de Vizzavona, Col de Verde et Bavella.

Le GR20 offre un véritable retour aux sources. Classé comme la randonnée itinérante la plus dure elle est incontestablement la plus belle.

Chaque étape vous offre des paysages à couper le souffle avec de nombreuses vues sur la mer depuis les hauts sommets de l’île. Que ce soit en Corse du Nord ou en Corse du sud, chaque passage est surprenant.

Ne partez pas sans préparation: multipliez les sources d'information, et munissez-vous au minimum d'un topoguide.

Faire le GR20 avec une agence

Pour ceux qui souhaitent faire appel à des professionnels de la montagne corse pour l'organisation de leur GR20 , nous vous conseillons l'agence Corsica Aventure qui propose plusieurs versions avec guide, en liberté , en niveau 4, en niveau 3, en formules gîte , formule hôtel, avec sac ou sans sac ... Corsica Aventure est l'agence Corse spécialisée dans le GR20 depuis plus de 20 ans.

IMAGES

  1. Le GR20 en Corse : étapes, distance et incontournables de ce parcours

    trek gr20 corse

  2. 10 choses à savoir sur le trek du GR20 en Corse

    trek gr20 corse

  3. 10 choses à savoir sur le trek du GR20 en Corse

    trek gr20 corse

  4. Trek itinérant : la traversée intégrale du GR20 du Sud au Nord

    trek gr20 corse

  5. TRAIL CORSE GR20, Trail du Gr20 en 7 jours, course montagne Gr20 Corse

    trek gr20 corse

  6. Comment bien se préparer pour le Trek du GR20 en Corse?

    trek gr20 corse

VIDEO

  1. TREK FULL CARBON DE R$ 60 MIL

  2. Le GR20 de Calenzana à Stagnu Ascu

  3. TREK TREK MB

  4. TREK Session 8 2017

  5. GR20 Partie Sud, c'est pas si roulant que ça ! 😜

  6. A Muvrella Randonnées :Présentation de la randonnée au plateau du Coscione

COMMENTS

  1. GR20

    Updated: March 28, 2023. The GR20 is a beautiful long-distance hike across the French island of Corsica. It is considered the toughest of long-distance trails in Europe as well as one of the hardest hikes in the world. The 112-mile (180km) trail traverses the Mediterranean island from north to south, beginning in Calenzana and ending in Conca.

  2. A Quick & Dirty Guide to Corsica's GR20

    The GR20 is a classic trek along the jagged spine of Corsica's mountainous centre. Forget about all the "toughest trek in Europe" hype. Yes, some of the stages are a bit rugged, but it is uniformly well marked, there is a plethora of trekking information available, and as long as you use some common sense and stay off the exposed areas ...

  3. Hiking the GR20 in Corsica: An Overview Guide

    Hiking the GR20: An Overview. The GR20 is classified as a long-distance trek, spanning nearly the entire north-south distance of the Corsican island, a total of 112 miles (180 kilometers). It has a serious mountain-to-valley elevation variation of about 32,000 feet (10,000 meters) over a 16-day hiking period.

  4. Europe's Toughest Trek: The 15 Stages of the GR20 in Corsica

    The French Grande Randonnée No. 20, or GR20 for short, is one of the toughest and most exciting long-distance trails in Europe. Over the course of 15 stages, it meanders 111 miles (180 kilometers) from northern Corsica through beautiful landscapes to the south of the island. The white and red mark will guide you the entire way from Calenzana ...

  5. GR20 in Corsica: Route, Stages, Map and More!

    The GR20, also known as Fra li Monti is a GR (Grande Randonnée) footpath that crosses the Mediterranean island of Corsica running approximately from north to south. The entire trail is about 180 km long with 12,000 m of elevation gain. Although it takes about 15 days to complete it, the route can be divided into 2 stages: the northern part ...

  6. GR® 20, Haute-Corse, France

    GR® 20. Proceed cautiously on this 107.2-mile point--point trail near Calenzana, Haute-Corse. Generally considered a highly challenging route, it takes an average of 72 h 37 min to complete and should only be attempted by experienced adventurers. This is a very popular area for backpacking, hiking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other ...

  7. GR20 Corsica

    Meet at the hotel in Calvi. A single timed transfer from Bastia Airport is provided. Day 2. Transfer to Calenzana, the start of the GR20. Trek to Ortu di u Piobbio refuge. Day 3. Trek into the Cirque de Bonifatu and on to the Refuge de Carrozu. Day 4. Ascend to the ridge above Lac de Muvrell and down to Haut Asco.

  8. GR 20

    The best time for the GR20 trek is late June and early September, when most huts are open, weather is not so hot and the trail is less crowded than in July or August. ... GR 20 on the Parc naturel régional de Corse official website-- official info, advices, stages' description and contacts of regional authority (in French) GR20: Corsica, ...

  9. GR20 in Corsica: Tips to achieve it

    Tips to help you achieve this Corsican trek. The GR20 is a mythical long distance hiking trail that traverses the island of Corsica diagonally, from Calenzana in the North, to Conca in the South.. The 200km trail follows the granite backbone of mountains that divide the island in two, many of which soar above 2000m altitude.

  10. How to walk the GR20 in Corsica

    Day 2: Transfer to Calenzana, the start of the GR20. Trek to Ortu di u Piobbio refuge Offering awe-inspiring coastline views and plenty of up-hill walking for the first day. Accommodation: Camping Distance and time: 7.4 miles, 6-7 hours Elevation: 1,500m ascent, 230m descent. Day 3: Trek into the Cirque de Bonifatu and on to the Refuge de Carrozu

  11. The Ultimate Guide to the GR20

    GR20 Maps: Custom maps and elevation profiles to ensure you're prepared for your trek. Trip Report: The GR20 Nord-An honest account of our experiences on the notorious northern half of the GR20. Trip Report: The GR20 Sud-Know what to expect on the southern section of your trek. GR20 Logistics: Don't forget the small details!

  12. Guided Hiking of the Full GR20 Trail in Corsica

    Divert from the GR20 in order to avoid staying in overcrowded and uncomfortable huts, and stop at a privately-run gîte in the typical Corsican village of Cozzano. Accommodation: Gîte. Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner. Hiking: 8 hours. Elevation change: +750 m / +2,460 ft | -1,300 m / -4,265 ft.

  13. I took on Europe's toughest trek

    With a tent and little else our writer set off along the GR20, known as Europe's toughest trek. It was an experience that sharpened the senses and offered rich rewards. James Gingell.

  14. Walking in Corsica on the mythic GR20 trekking itinerary

    The world famous trek in Corsica, the GR20: history, route, flora, and the best hiking holidays. Hubert and Aurélia are at your service! +33 495 444 967. Close. HOME; HISTORY; THE STAGES; FLORA & GEOLOGY; GR20 TRIPS; ... GR20 basically means great trail (or footpath) n°20 in French.

  15. GR® 20

    Mythical long-distance hiking trail that crosses Corsica from north to south, from the town of Calenzana to the town of Conca. The entire GR®20 takes about 15 days to cover on foot. It can be done both ways. The best time to hike it is from late May/early June to late October. July and August tend to see the most people on the trails. There are huts along the way. You can pay to stay in a ...

  16. Europe's toughest trek: Corsica's GR20

    One hundred and seventy kilometres traversing Corsica's steepling spine. Nineteen thousand metres of ascent and descent. Fifteen days walking for a minimum of six hours a day. These numbers seemed ...

  17. GR20 Complete Guided Trek

    Starting from 2450 €. ENGLISH / INTERNATIONAL guided trek. The best hiking and scrambling in Europe. The Complete GR20 long distance trek. GR20 - Conca, Vizzavona, Calenzana. Walk the complete GR20 in Corsica with a guide, the finest and most probably the hardest mountain hiking route in Europe, this is a classic trek rising from the ...

  18. GR20

    You will then only need to purchase bread in the refuges for your breakfast. Don't forget to bring a lighter or matches (for 2-3 weeks) for the gas stoves. The refuges mostly sell basic foods, e.g. bread, pasta, cheese, tins of ham and tuna, each at around €3-5. The refuges sell drinks, e.g. local red wine (€6-8 per 75cl bottle), cold ...

  19. Hike The Complete GR20 High Route Corsica

    Join the elite group of GR20 long distance hikers. Witness a truly spectacular island mountain landscape. Twelve days of stunning hiking and light 'scrambling'. Good quality hotels, private gîtes, and high mountain refuges. Luggage support each day of the trek, except for two. Finish by the famous town of Porto Vecchio by the sea.

  20. GR 20

    12,000 m. Hazards. Fog, high winds. Trail map. Red and white marks and sometimes piles of rocks indicate the direction. The GR 20 (or fra li monti) is a GR footpath that crosses the Mediterranean island of Corsica running approximately north-south, described by the outdoor writer Paddy Dillon as "one of the top trails in the world". [1]

  21. GR20 Trail self-guided trekking tour in Corsica

    The traditional GR20 route has been rerouted to avoid the Cirque de la Solitude, an area which has been closed by park authorities since a huge landslide occurred there in 2015. Today's trek is long and strenuous but crosses the amazing terrain around Monte Cintu and the Pointe des Éboulis (2,602 m / 8,537').

  22. GR20 : randonnée en Corse

    Des conseils pour vous aider à préparer le GR20 et réussir ce merveilleux trek en Corse. GR20 Corse Profil des étapes, refuges: ... Corsica Aventure est l'agence Corse spécialisée dans le GR20 depuis plus de 20 ans, ils proposent aussi un site d'information sur le GR20 Corse.

  23. Le GR20

    C'est au nord de la Corse que le GR20 s'est forgé sa réputation de trek difficile. Entre Asco et Viz-zavona, le GR20 traverse les cols les plus élevés, et franchit certaines montagnes par le biais d'échelles permettant le passage. Dans cette portion du chemin, les paysages sont minéraux et les dénivelés des randonnées sont importants.