gr20 france trek

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GR20 – A Tough But Amazing Trail In Corsica

Europe , France , Hikes

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.  

Photo by Irena Tsvetanova

GR20 Map and Guidebook

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.

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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 68 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. 

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.

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.

• 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

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.

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.

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.

• 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.

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 .

• 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.

Final Sunrise of the GR20

Final sunrise of the GR20

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

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68 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 !

Did the route 5 years ago north to south. Extremely hard going in places. Took 2 days dehydrated rations, plus roast and salted peanuts as my daily munchies. Eat at refuge every evening, all meals pasta and various home produced goat and sheep cheese. Filling and nourishing, breakfast bread and jam with cakes. Also booked ready erected tent, keeps weight down to recommended 25lbs.

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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Hikers make their way across the rocky GR 20 in Corsica, France.

Must-Do Dream Trip: Hike the GR 20, Corsica, France

Ultimate Adventure Bucket List: Hiker Jennifer Pharr Davis' dream trip is to hike the GR 20 in Corsica, France. See all our Adventure Bucket List trips.

The Mediterranean may conjure images of beaches and wine-soaked dinners, but it’s also the home of Europe’s most notorious trail: the GR 20 in Corsica, France . Naturally, its reputation for challenge uniquely appealed to Jennifer Pharr Davis. “One of the best trails we’ve done is in Corsica, the GR 20,” says Davis. “It’s phenomenal. I had no clue that a small island in the Mediterranean could be that rugged and that diverse and that gorgeous.” Winding 112 miles and rising 35,000 vertical feet along Corsica’s pink-granite spine, the GR 20 leads over narrow ridges and loose rocky climbs. But the challenge is easily forgotten between oregano-speckled fields, views of the Mediterranean, glowing-blue alpine lakes, and, conveniently, huts stationed at regular intervals along the way. “I felt like we were in The Princess Bride—there were the Cliffs of Insanity and the place that looked like the fire swamp,” says Davis. In other words, with its impressive cliffs and dense forests, “it looked magical, like some kind of fairy tale.” Still, few Americans venture to this forgotten Mediterranean island. “It’s a well-kept secret,” says Pharr. Corsica.forHikers.com offers information on hiking the GR 20, and outfitter Tour Aventure offers guided hikes.

Next: See Jennifer Pharr Davis's Dream Trip: Hike the Continental Divide Trail

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Hiking the GR20 in Corsica: An Overview Guide

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).

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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!

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.

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

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

About the Author: Christa

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Key information: GR20

• Corsica's GR20 is a superb diagonal dissection of the island along its awe-inspiring granite spine.
• Enjoy outstanding scenery, which darts back and forth between ravishingly beautiful and harshly magnificent. Peerless views of sea and mountain, and regular geological and engineering marvels.
• Discover the intriguing maquis shrubland: aromatic herbs and brush on the lower slopes. Corsica offers a degree of wildness rarely found on the Mediterranean's tamed continental coastlines.
• This is a long, tough, difficult walk over 200-odd kilometres. It is reputed (with good cause) to be one of the most difficult long-distance treks in Europe, with some scrambles that will horrify those with a poor head for heights. Come prepared.
• Cicerone's GR20:Corsica, The High Level Route  is the must-buy book for this walk. 

Walkopedia rating

• Walkopedia rating 85
• Natural interest 16
• Human interest 5
• Charisma 32
• Negative points 2
• Total rating 85

Vital Statistics

• Length: 180km
• Maximum Altitude: Around 2,225m
• Level of Difficulty: Very Difficult

WALK SUMMARY

The GR20 is one of Europe's most exhilarating - and most celebrated (famously infamous) - footpaths, a tough trek in magnificent mountains with scrambles to horrify those of a nervous disposition. It runs from the island's northern coastline along the 180km length of its central mountain spine, over a series of Alpine peaks topped by 2,710m Monte Cinto.

Along the way are innumerable aretes, ridges, and relentless ascents/descents. The most demanding are assisted: some, the Cirque de Solitude in particular, can be heart-stopping and are genuinely dangerous, and during wet weather (of which there is plenty, with thunderstorms coming thick and fast in high summer and howling winter weather) should only be tackled by the very experienced. Thanks to a series of chains and ladders it is, at least in summer, accessible to anyone fit, without the need for special climbing skills or gear. This is of course one of its main attractions: that it offers levels of high mountain access that are rare for the (fit!) walker.

There is, then, some basis for the route's reputation as a monster, although there are alternatives to some of the toughest sections. But, with the refuges often splendidly sited, and abundant pools, plus the odd comfortable gite, there are opportunities to relax and enjoy the experience when the weather smiles.

Corsica, a part of France since the late 1750s and birthplace of its most famous son, Napoleon, still maintains its own special identity. The people still speak their ancient tongue; the island is French by administration, Italian and north African by emotion and location; the atmosphere is relatively unsullied by modernization. Corsica's rugged terrain, much of its higher reaches bare rock, is mistakable for something rather more alien. This is truly wild, unspoiled mountain country, rich with the scent of herbs and cooled by high forests and riddled with ancient footpaths. All of this wild "otherness" is communicated in the GR20, leading you through its most isolated, magnificent areas. Note: as at late 2016, the famous Cirque de Solitude is closed as a result of landslip. There is an alternative route. Check the current position.

On its central spine Corsica is often astonishingly beautiful, albeit harsh: outlandish towers and cliffs above ravishing lakes. Add in glimpses of far-off sea and the maquis heathland on the lower slopes, with its mingled heady aromas and varied and vivid graduations of colour - rosemary, thyme, fennel, lavender and myrtle; rock roses, strawberry trees, holm oaks, cork oaks and magnificent indigenous Corsica pine. The trek leaves the remoter mountain passes to plot near to the towns of Monte Cinto, Monte Rotondo and Monte d'Oro.

Fauna includes the mountain goat, the mouflon, wild boar, harmless but hissy snakes, huge kites and tiny finches, hoopoes, the 2.7m-wingspan bearded vulture, and noble, graceful eagles.

It is not just the scrambles that make this a tough undertaking. The weather is often foul - we mean really horrible - and the huts basic, cramped and crowded, especially when it is wet. Carry a tent, but, while camping is delightful in good weather, it can quickly get miserable in bad. All this can make the GR20 an exhilarating challenge, if you enjoy that sort of thing (it is a lot of peoples? best-ever walk), but quite a lot of days can take you way beyond what would be considered fun by rational people.

The whole route will take over two weeks of spectacular isolation and remarkable views. The northern section (GR20 Nord) can be done in a bit over a week, but is the toughest part. GR20 Sud is (relatively) gentler. GR20 can be walked north to south (most people) or south to north.

See also   Paul Hadaway's  thoughts below.

OUR FRIENDS' EXPERIENCES

Gr20 - the hard way by paul hadaway.

These are personal notes on the GR20 – Paddy Dillon writes THE guide book, and there is no point in trying to replicate it; the other web links provide faster itineraries than the base 15 stages/15 days in Paddy Dillion's book. All my stage number references are Paddy Dillon's stage numbers. No-one would plan to follow my itinerary out of choice but despite set backs I did it in 13 days, starting from the north, breaking after stage 3 and restarting the same day from the south. I started with a companion who blew out after 3 days then walked with 4 Dutch guys who very generously let me join their team – and I didn't even have to wear an orange shirt.

Read the guide books carefully; my experience is no worse than the books & blogs describe; it just all happened at once.

Walking the GR20 was one of the best 2 weeks I have spent. It's tough and it's dangerous – I saw 3 memorials to walkers who had died en route – but you're only ever 2/3 hours walk downhill to civilisation. It's a truly excellent brush with harsh untamed nature; the scenery and surroundings are dramatic, beautiful and threatening.

Preparation – I spent the week before walking on a sun bed at the Belles Rives Hotel on Cap d'Antibes – not ideal, but I was recovering from a shoulder operation that had gone wrong. Again not ideal, but I didn't break it on purpose and I had been planning the GR20 for a long time. I was going, come what may and the doctor had cleared me to carry a rucksack.

I am usually fit; football/pilates/walking/riding-several-times-a-week fit, but the shoulder had restricted most forms of exercise although.....

Your comments on this walk, your experiences and suggestions, and your photos are very welcome. Where appropriate, you will be credited for your contribution.

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PRACTICAL INFORMATION

We have a lot of helpful practical information and tips about this walk , covering everything from the best books and maps, to timing and weather, geting there, possible problems, whether you need a guide and where to find them, and useful websites. This section is only open to members.

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Safety and problems: All walks have inherent risks and potential problems, and many of the walks featured on this website involve significant risks, dangers and problems. Problems of any sort can arise on any walk. This website does not purport to identify any (or all) actual or potential risks, dangers and problems that may relate to any particular walk. Any person who is considering undertaking this walk should do careful research and make their own assessment of the risks, dangers and possible problems involved. They should also go to “ Important information ” for further important information.

Anyone planning an expedition to this place should see further important information about this walk.

COMMUNITY COMMENTS AND PHOTOS

Name: Dick Everard Posted on: 24/01/2011 Paul Hadaway doesn't recommend September but I walked the whole of the GR20 in 2002 starting on 15th September from North to South. We never had any problems with accommodation although the hut at the Refuge de Manganu was a little crowded, after some bad weather which had stopped those who were staying there the previous evening from moving on - although we managed to get there albeit the weather wasn't pleasant. That, however, was our only bad day and we had blue sky and light cloud for most of the two weeks. Regarding difficulty, I wouldn't say that it was particularly difficult provided your are fit and don't mind heights. I was only 54 years old at the time but one of my colleagues was 66 and he wasn't the oldest person on the walk as we met a 75 year old Frenchman with a broken wrist(he had fallen out of his bunk bed). OK, we were fit and lucky with the weather. It was certainly more difficult but only just than the GR5 which I walked this year (St Gingolph to Monaco) with the same colleague now aged 74! You just need to be fit and get plenty of training carrying a heavy rucksack but 10 or 11kgs is enough not 13kgs. Although we carried a tent for the whole of the GR20, it was never used as there was always space in the Refuges, Gites or hotels. It took us 16 days walking i.e we twice walked two of Paddy Dillon's stages in one day. We carried some dried meals for emergencies but we only ever had to cook our own food once otherwise we managed to get a cooked meal every evening and even had scrambled eggs for breakfast at one Refuge.

Walkopedia friend Dick Everard (thank you Dick!) says:

I wonder whether you have read about the accident at the Cirque de la Solitude on the GR20 in Corsica this year. I only came across it by accident when looking something up on the internet. It is difficult to get a full picture of what happened but it seems that possibly 7 people were killed following a rock fall/landslide following very heavy rain. The path is presently closed at this point but the only English Report was by Paddy Dillon of Cicerone in the Outdoor Magic forum and that on Corsica.forhikers. Most of the reports are dated just after the accident happened when they only knew of three dead and I don’t think it was until several weeks later that the full picture emerged. Most of the newspaper reports are in French so unless your French is good, they are difficult to understand and the Google translation isn’t much help. I thought it might be sensible to highlight the dangers of walking in mountains in Walkopedia as I am sure most of us get complacent – I know that you do include warnings. It takes something like this to remind everyone that they need to be careful not that I would want to put anyone off walking the GR20 or any other high level route. On a practical matter, I don’t know how one discovers when and if the stage through the Cirque de la Solitude will be re-opened – maybe on Corsica.forhikers: this is the latest info from there: http://corsica.forhikers.com/forum/p/25089 . 

See More Your comments on this walk, your experiences and suggestions, and your photos are very welcome. Where appropriate, you will be credited for your contribution.

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GR20: 200 km in the Corsican mountains [Full Guide]

We did not plan to hike the GR20. The summer of 2020 was very uncertain and we made up our mind a week before we left. We booked the flights the day before departure, started hiking the day we arrived, and 7 days later we were in Conca, on the other side of Corsica.

If you are thinking about doing it but you don’t have any hiking or mountain experience – we were in the same place in 2020. No experience whatsoever , but we did the GR20, then the Camino, and part of the GR10 (across the Pyrénées), and I am now writing this article to give you all the info you need to prepare for your GR20. 🙂

How long is it? How much vert can you expect? Can you do it without training ? Where do you resupply and eat along the way? Is it better to sleep in a tent or in the refuges ? Are hiking poles a must-have? Can you find water on the path?

And of course… Hiking shoes or trail running shoes??

You can find the answers in this article, I did my best to gather it all in one place. Happy reading! 🙂

1. The GR20 in 15 stages

In Europe, GR stands for “Grande Randonnée” (literally: “Big hike”). You can find GR routes all around Europe and mostly in France, the Netherlands (Grote Routepaden), Spain (Gran Recorrido) and Portugal (Grande Rota). They are all marked and recognised by the same sign: a white stripe above a red stripe (yep, the Polish flag!)

The GR20 goes from the North to the South of Corsica in 15 stages (although they recently changed the route and you can now do it in 16 stages). The distances and elevation gains in this article were recorded with a Polar watch during our hike, it may vary a little. I have also indicated the summits for each stage a bit further down in the article.

Table of all 15 stages of the GR20

NB : d+ indicates the elevation gain, and d- the elevation drop!

Stage 1 of the GR20 : Calenzana – Ortu di u Piobbu

12 km , 1545 m of ascent and 235 m of descent.

The hike starts with a long climb up to the stage’s summit, altitude 1556 m. Up until there you can still see the ocean, but the mountains start to take over and you will quickly understand why the GR20 is said to be the “hardest GR in Europe” … This first stage really humbled us and made us realise how tough it is. We essentially spent the whole day watching where we put our feet ahah. Fortunately, a couple of “rolling” sections allow you to walk while enjoying the view.

Stage 2 of the GR20 : Ortu di u Piobbu – Carrozzu

10 km , 850 m of ascent and 895 m of descent.

The start of this stage is flat(ish) but it does not last. You will have to climb up to 1600 m , then go down a couple metres and climb up again to the highest point of the day, 2030 m high . You will then walk down to 1500 m, with the last few kilometres going downhill allllll the way to the refuge… This is the day we found out that it is harder to go down than to go up !

Stage 3 of the GR20 : Carrozzu – Ascu Stagnu

9 km , 815 m of ascent and 640 m of descent.

The summit is at an altitude of 1900 m between Carrozzu and Ascu Stagnu. There is a fair bit of climbing and scree slopes . You can see Ascu Stagnu from afar very early on in the hike, which can turned out to be really frustrating as it felt like we were never getting closer! You can also see the Monte Cinto, Corsica’s rooftop culminating at 2700 m.

Stage 4 of the GR20 : Ascu Stagnu – Tighjettu

13 km , 1255 m of ascent and 1115 m of descent.

A long stage with the highest point at altitude 2600 m. This is the highest point of the GR20 and of Corsica: Monte Cinto. You can climb an extra 100 m to get to the very top but we decided not to (it is a 1h45m return trip). The landscape changed drastically passed 2000 m and it felt like we were on the moon: no grass, no tree, no wildlife, just a whole lot of rocks. There was barely a path to hike and it is definitely one of the hardest stage of the GR20. You will finish the day with a very long walk down to the refuge that feels like coming back to the Earth ahah.

Stage 5 of the GR20 : Tighjettu – Ciottulu di i Mori

8.5 km , 880 m of ascent and 385 m of descent.

While the highest point of this stage is at 2000 m h igh, it felt almost easy after stage 4! You are very often sheltered by trees and walking on the mountainside. Towards the end, you will go down in the valley and hike along the river , where you will be able to fill up your water bottle or go for a swim!

Stage 6 of the GR20 : Ciottulu di i Mori – Manganu

27 km , 860 m of ascent and 1260 m of descent.

This stage will take you up to 1400 m, 1600 m and 1800m. You will walk passed Castel de Vergio, a ski resort where you can eat, resupply and sleep. It is the longest stage of the GR20 but also one of the easiest , and it was good for the soul. You will walk on an actual path with no rock for most of the day, which will take you to the Lac de Nino and its valley. You can either stop at the Bergerie de Vaccaghja , or at Manganu 2 km further.

Stage 7 of the GR20 : Manganu – Petra Piana

10 km , 855 m of ascent and 655 m of descent.

This stage starts with a climb up to 2200 m, then back down to 2000 m and up again to 2200 m high. You will hike along the Lac de Capitello, which you can see from above. You can access it via a detour route, but the water is apparently really cold, even in september!

Stage 8 of the GR20 : Petra Piana – l’Onda

8 km , 385 m of ascent and 755 m of descent.

The second-last stage of the GR20 will take you all the way up to 2000 m . You have 2 options to get to l’Onda: on the mountain ridge (shorter but more difficult) or through the valley (longer but much flatter). We went for the ridge and once again, the GR20 delivered; it was one of the most beautiful landscapes we have ever seen. You can see all around, above and below you, as you can see on the photo. Though it is important to note that this route is not accessible in bad weather!

Stage 9 of the GR20 : l’Onda – Vizzavone

14 km , 735 m of ascent and 1250 m of descent.

Basically 14 km of downhill, and we know now that going downhill is harder than going uphill on the GR20… The last stage of the Northern part of the GR and definitely the one that took us the longest – we decided to do 3 stages on that day, stage 9 being the latest, and it killed us ahah. The last couple of kilometres into Vizzavone are on bitumen too, which does not help with feet pain!

Stage 10 of the GR20 : Vizzavone – Capanelle

16 km , 1080 m of ascent and 410 m of descent.

GR South, here we are! We started the day with a nice climb up to 1600 m and a rather flat track for the rest of it. The difference between the North and the South is really striking. You will still climb a lot, but the path is really nice, with nowhere as many rocks as in the North. You will also see a lot more wildlife and vegetation thanks to the low altitude! This stage is accessible from the road too, which means you can decide to end your GR20 there and go back to civilisation.

Stage 11 of the GR20 : Capanelle – Prati

20 km , 970 m of ascent and 775 m of descent.

Once again a rather uneventful stage going up and down to the summit at 1800 m. You will encounter a resupply ‘store’ on the way, which is always nice. And most importantly, once you are in Prati, you will finally see the ocean for the first time… on the Eastern side of Corsica!

Stage 12 of the GR20 : Prati – Usciolu

12 km , 934 m of ascent and 221 m of descent.

This stage will take you on the mountain ridge and go up to 1900 m, down to 1500 m and up again to 1900 m. It was actually quite technical and some parts reminded us of the North. The refuge overlooks the valley and would be a great spot for the sunset, if you get there in time!

Stage 13 of the GR20 : Usciolu – Asinau

19 km , 750 m of ascent and 930 m of descent.

This stage has the highest point in the southern part of Corsica, at altitude 2000 m. You will get the best view over the mountains as you are hiking on the mountainside.

They added a stage around there: you can now walk from Usciolu to A Matalza (10 km) and A Matalza to Asinau (10 km).

Stage 14 of the GR20 : Asinau – Paliri

18 km , 484 m of ascent and 807 m of descent.

From Asinau, it’s basically all downhill from here! You will hike down to 1000 m, where you have 2 options: the route along the river in the valley, or the route through Bavella’s Needles (Aiguilles de Bavella). We went via the valley because we were short on time (and very tired ahah) but if you can, definitely go via Bavella!

Stage 15 of the GR20 : Paliri – Conca

15k m , 46 m of ascent and 1029 m of descent.

And finally, stage 15. You keep going down and down, all the way to the ocean baby! It feels like you are never going to get there, and the “finish” sign is quite hard to find, but finally, you made it. Congratulations and enjoy your Pietra. :p

I have downloaded all the GPX files for each stage of the GR20 in this Drive folder . (WordPress does not allow me to insert them in the article).

You will find all 15 GPX files (without A Matalza), as well as the 7 GPX files if you want to do it in 7 days.

The data (and especially vert and altitude) can change slightly from one device to another so don’t be surprised if your watch’s data is sometimes different from those in my article. 😉

2. How to prepare for the GR20

What level of fitness do i need for the gr20 .

It all depends on your end goal and how fast you want to finish it .

If you are lucky enough to have 15 days off and you want to sit back and relax in the afternoon at the refuge, you don’t need to worry too much about training . A good physical condition will be enough.

If you are up for a challenge, doing it in 7 days is definitely achievable if you’re an active person all year round. However, if you want to do it in 5 days or less , this is where you need to start thinking about a proper training plan . We came across quite a few groups who were doing the GR20 as a trail run (with ultralight gear) and most of them were doing it in 7 days, like us. They were going faster than us and had free time in the afternoon. We asked them why they weren’t going sub-5 days and they explained that the level of fitness you need to do it in less than a week is considerably higher .

As far as we’re concerned, we did not do any specific training . Neither of us had done multi-days hikes before and it was very much a last minute decision (partly because we were in the middle of a pandemic ahah).

However, we are both very active people (cycling and running) and in great health. We love endurance sports and that’s what you need most on the GR20: the ability to walk for hours in the mountains, for days in a row, with little sleep and average food . We did it in 7 days, we could not have done it any faster at that time. If we were to do it again, we would train specifically for it and make our bags lighter too.

Your physical condition is also very important in terms of injury . We saw a lot of hikers who had to stop and go back to the city because they had slipped on rocks or sprained their ankles . The path is almost entirely made of rocks (in the Northern part) and it is really easy to get injured.

GR20 solo or with a group?

Honestly, no right or wrong answer to that one. We saw plenty of groups of all sizes and solo hikers, it’s a very personal choice. We did it together, and I would love to do it solo one day. It’s a completely different experience. If this is your first multi-day hike though, you probably want to do it with someone else.

Is the GR20 really the “ hardest GR in Europe ” ?

Yes, the GR20 is difficult .

Not the most difficult in our opinion, but still really difficult.

We found that most guides (Topo Guide, GR20 website…) underestimate the northern part of the GR20. There was a lot more climbing and technical sections than we expected, almost dangerous sometimes. It is definitely not suitable for people who have vertigo as you will often be walking on the e dge of cliffs . The path is also made up of rocks, of all shapes and sizes, which makes it incredibly difficult not only to climb up but also to walk down the mountains. The first 90 km stretch from Calenzana to Vizzavone is hands down the most difficult section of the whole hike.

We also found that the southern part (from Vizzavone to Conca) was underestimated in the Topo Guide. It is said to be a lot easier than the northern part, almost like a walk in the park. Do not expect an easy hike because it is still very demanding with a lot of vertical metres and some technical passages. Each stage is also a lot longer in terms of distance ; if you plan on doing 2 stages per day, keep in mind that it is a lot of ground to cover on your feet. This is especially true if you have done the northern section first, the fatigue you have accumulated along the way will definitely make you feel like the southern part is just as hard!

Is it really the “ most beautiful GR in Europe ” ?

The GR20 is absolutely beautiful, there is no denying that. The mountains will take your breath away every day on this hike. However, you cannot hike and appreciate the view at the same time on the GR20; you will be constantly looking at the ground to watch your steps and not trip ahah. If you plan on doing it in 7 days or less, you may not have the time to truly appreciate how beautiful it is. If you have 15 days to do it, you will definitely have time to stop throughout the day, go for a swim in the natural pools and enjoy the Corsican mountains!

3. Planning your GR20

The GR20 is supposed to be 180 km; we counted 200 km and 13,000 m of vert . We did 2 or 3 stages every day and walked 8 to 12 hours every day (including breaks). You will see signs on the way that estimate the time needed to cover the distance at an average speed of 1 km/h; if you are reasonably fit you can probably halve those times.

Best time to go: June to September

June is the ideal month for the GR20: fewer people , perfect weather (not too hot), and the longest days of the year.

July and August are more crowded and a lot hotter , you have to plan in advance for water and be careful with thunderstorms .

We did it the first week of September and pretty much had the perfect conditions for it: no rain, sunny every day but not crazy hot, and a bit windy sometimes. We were able to find water in most natural sources because it had rained a lot in the weeks prior. There was also not many people, but mostly because of Covid and the travel restrictions.

Not only is the weather better between June and September , it is also the time of the year when you get the most daylight . This is especially important if you plan on doing it fast. We never had to use our head torches and we knew that we would always get to the refuge before sunset (which was around 21:00-21:30). Passed September, the days get shorter and you will probably have to hike at night at some point.

However, the night were freezing even in summer. It would get to 0°c every night, which is not that surprising since most refuges are around 1800-2000 m of altitude. We really advise you to bring stuff to wear at night or a sleeping bag that can handle sub-0 temp!

Risks on the GR20 : thunderstorms, wildfires, snow, altitude sickness…

2 days be fore we left, some sections of the GR20 were closed because of a wildfire and 2 days after we arrived in Conca (end point), it rained massively all over Corsica. The weather can change a lot over the span of a few days, especially in summer with thunderstorms , heavy rain, extreme heat – but also in winter with the snow, ice and rain again. Always check the forecast before leaving in the morning, and check this website for bushfire alerts.

You should also be careful when climbing above 2000 m if you have never done this before. You can feel out of breath if you go too fast – slow down if you need to and allow more time in the day when you know you will be doing a lot of climbing. My hands would also get swollen over 2000-2300 m so don’t be surprised if that happens to you too ahah! Be prepared for the fog too, passed a certain point you will go from really sunny to not seeing anything 2 metres ahead of you – it can be scary at first but you get used to it after a few days. 🙂

Southbound or Northbound?

The ‘official’ GR20 goes from North to South and we did it that way. There are a few things to consider when making your choice.

If you start in the North (Calenzana), you start with the hardest sections . When you are struggling in the first 90 km, it does help to think that the second half of your hike will be easier than what you are doing right now! You will also accumulate a lot of fatigue, no matter which way you go – I honestly don’t know if I could have done the Northern sections after doing the Southern sections, it was much better to start with the hardest bit when you feel nice and fresh and rested.

If you start in the South (Conca), you are essentially warming up in the first 90 km before the Northern sections. If you are sensitive to the sun, it’s good to note that the sun will be behind you most of the time when you go South to North (although the sun really did not bother us when we did it from North to South ahah).

It’s good to check the forecast before making your decision, too. For example if there are thunderstorms i n the North as you are about to start the GR20, then you might as well start in the South and hopefully by the time you get to the North, the storms will have passed. You can also choose to only do half of the whole hike , and catch a train to/from Vizzavone.

How long should I take? Where can I do double or triple stage days?

Our initial plan was to do it in 10 days. Once we were there, we realised we could quite easily do double-stage days (hike two stages in a day) and still have enough energy left to continue the next day. We even did triple-stage days and finished it in 7 days.

The Southern stages are undoubtedly the easiest one to ‘double’. They are longer in distance but much less difficult: there is less elevation gain and the path is nowhere as rough. However, you can definitely double in the Northern part as well, as long as you allow enough time for it. Don’t underestimate how slow you will be ahah. I remember seeing a sign: ‘Ascu Stagnu – 2 km – 2.5 hours’ and wondering how one could possibly take 2 hours to walk 2 kilometres… Well, it took us 3 hours. ?

If you are on any GR20 Facebook group, you will have noticed that a lot of hikers tend to preach about hiking slowly and taking your time. While this is a rather nice idea, not everyone has 2 weeks off to dedicate to a hike nor the budget for 15 days of hiking where you will eat double the usual amount of food and sleep in refuges every night . And even if you do have the time and money for it, maybe you just like a good challenge, like we did. Maybe you want to see how far you can push yourself before you collapse and that is okay! Don’t listen to what anyone is saying; you don’t need to go ‘slow’ to enjoy the GR20. Do whatever you want, whether it be a slow hike or a personal challenge. Your hike, your pace! 😉

GR20 in 7 days (our plan)

DAY 1: 20 km (GR20 stages 1 and 2)

• Start: 10:30
• 9h of walking, 11h with breaks
• Calenzana – Ortu di u Piobbu – Carrozzu
• 2305d+ and 1125 d-
• Summit: 2036 m

DAY 2: 16 km ( GR20 stages 3 and 4)

• Start: 9:00
• 10h of walking, 12h30 with breaks
• Carrozzu – Ascu Stagnu – Tighjettu
• 2005d+ and 1650d-
• Summits: 1982 m, 2600 m

DAY 3: 25km ( GR20 stages 5 and 6)

• 8h30 of walking, 12h30 with breaks
• Tighjettu – Ciottulu di i Mori – Manganu
• 1775d+ and 1700d-
• Summits: 2045 m, 1880 m

DAY 4: 32 km ( GR20 stages 7, 8 and 9)

• Start: 9:30
• 7h30 of walking, 11h40 with breaks
• Manganu – Petra Piana – l’Onda – Vizzavone
• 1940d+ and 2630d-
• Summits: 2300 m, 2100 m

DAY 5: 34 km ( GR20 stages 10 and 11)

• Start: 8:00
• 8h of walking, 11h with breaks
• Vizzavone – Capanelle – Prati
• 2035d+ and 1150d-
• Summits: 1629 m, 1840 m

DAY 6: 31 km ( GR20 stages 12 and 13)

• Start: 7:30
• 7h of walking, 10h with breaks
• Prati – Usciolu – Asinau
• 1660d+ and 1100d-
• Summits: 1980 m, 1967 m, 2000 m

DAY 7: 33 km ( GR20 stages 14 and 15)

• Start: 7:00
• 7h of walking, 11h with breaks
• Asinau – Paliri – Conca
• 1050d+ and 1200d-

Other formats

Gr 20 in 5 days.

• Day 1: 29 km (stages 1, 2, and 3) – 3210 d+ and 1770 d-
• Day 2: 34 km (stages 4, 5 and 6) – 2900 d+ and 2035 d-
• Day 3: 32 km (stages 7, 8 and 9) – 1975 d+ and 2660 d-
• Day 4: 46 km (stages 10, 11 and 12) – 2984 d+ and 1406 d-
• Day 5: 52 km (stages 13, 14 and 15) – 1679 d+ and 2789 d-

GR 20 in 8 days

• Day 1: 22 km (stages 1 and 2) – 2305d+ and 1125 d-
• Day 2: 16k m (stages 3 and 4) – 2005d+ and 1650d-
• Day 3: 25 km (stages 5 and 6) – 1775d+ and 1700d-
• Day 4: 18 km (stages 7 and 8) – 1240 d+ and 1410 d-
• Day 5: 30 km (stages 9 and 10) – 1815 d+ and 1660 d-
• Day 6: 30 km (stages 11 and 12) – 1904 d+ and 996 d-
• Day 7: 20 km (stages 13 and 14) – 747 d+ and 1048 d-
• Day 8: 33 km (stages 15 and 16) – 1050d+ and 1200d-

4. Budget for the GR20

Our budget for 7 days (per person).

• Transport, €142
• Gear, €265 : 180 (shoes) + 20 (bag) + 15 (hiking poles) + 50 (clothes)
• Food, €210 (about 30 € per day)
• Accommodation, €165 (each) : 180 (refuges) + 150 (hotels)

TOTAL: €782

You can get to Corsica by plane, flying to Bastia (to start in Calenzana) or Figari (to start in Conca). You can also fly to Ajaccio , on the West coast. Volotea has very cheap flights, we paid €67 for our tickets from Paris, but you can find much cheaper, depending on where you are flying from.

If you live in the South of France , you can catch the ferry over. It takes a couple of hours (8-12 hours depending on your route) and costs between €40 and €120 . You can book it on the Corsica Ferries website . If you are in the North of France and you want to catch the ferry, you can get the Ouibus bus for about €10 to get to the South of France, but that is a bit of a mission ahah, you are best to catch a plane.

When we arrived in Bastia, we caught a shuttle to the city centre (€9) and a bus from Bastia to Calvi (€16 and a 2-hour drive). From Calvi, the best way to get to Calenzana is to hitchhike, or you can catch a taxi. Alternatively, you can also hike the 10 km from Calvi to Calenzana, I guess that’s a good way to warm up before the GR20… ?

Hiking gears

If you have a small budget, you should at least invest in a good pair of shoes (trail or hiking shoes, I’ll talk about it later one in the article). And if possible a good pair of socks . For the rest, you don’t need the best gear or clothes to do the GR20. As far as I am concerned, I bought a pair of trail shoes for €180 , a second-hand hiking backpack for €20 , and about €50 worth of clothes in Décathlon. I already had a lot of stuff that I could take with me.

You can find the full list of gear and clothes I took further down in the article!

Food and accommodation on the GR20

Hiking is pretty simple.

You only really need to worry about 2 things: what to eat and where to sleep .

You can (and will) resupply in every refuge you come across because there is nowhere else to get food, apart from a few ski stations on the way. Obviously, everything is super expensive (food is delivered to the refuges via helicopter). Breakfast costs €10-12 , dinner around €20 (basic plate of pasta), and you can buy sandwiches, biscuits, cakes, canned food, coffee… The ‘official’ GR20 website has a full article with all the prices and they update it quite regularly.

Your calories’ intake will probably double , maybe triple, during the GR20. As an example, we were averaging 6000-8000 calories per day ! It’s hard to estimate a food budget but count at least €35-40 per person, per day. In the morning, breakfast starts around 6:30 and you have to tell the refuge’s guardian the day before whether you will have it or not. As for dinner, you need to get to the refuge before 18:00-18:30 to have it.

As far as refuges are concerned, they have a set price ; I have put a table a bit further down with all the details. We spent €180 in refuges (2020 rates) and €150 in hoteld (Vizzavone and Conca).

5. Accommodation on the GR20

Refuges on the gr20.

There is a refuge at the end of every stage on the GR20, and 2 or 3 times you will come across a ski station on the way. The refuges are very basic but they have all you need, included (cold) showers.

Refuges – Northern stages

• Refuge de Calenzana (sea level)
• Refuge d’Ortu di eu Piobbu (1520 m)
• Refuge de Carrozzu (1270 m)
• Refuge et station d’Asco Stagnu (1422 m)
• Refuge de Tighjettu
• Refuge de Ciottulu di i Mori (1991 m)
• Refuge de Manganu (1600 m)
• Refuge de Petra piana (1800 m)
• Refuge de l’Onda (1430 m)

Refuges – Southern stages

• Refuge d’E Capannelle (1586 m)
• Refuge de Prati 1820 m)
• Refuge d’Usciolu (1750 m)
• Refuge d’A Matalza
• Refuge d’Asinau (1530 m)
• Refuge du Col de Bavella (1218 m)
• Refuge de Paliri
• Refuge de Conca (sea level)
• Vizzavone (halfway point): Refuge at the train station; L’Alzarella; Camping du Soleil

2021 rates in refuges

NB: the rates seem to increase every year, I will update them for 2022 soon.

14 days, internet booking:

• €210 for a bed in a dorm
• €98 camping spot (with own tent)
• €350 rent a tent for 2 people

14 days, no booking:

• €280 for a bed in a dorm
• €168 camping spot (with own tent)
• €490 rent a tent for 2 people

7 days, internet booking :

• €105 for a bed in a dorm
• €49 camping spot (with own tent)
• €175 rent a tent for 2 people

7 days, no booking:

• €140 for a bed in a dorm
• €84 camping spot (with own tent)
• €245 rent a tent for 2 people

Should I book in advance?

You can either book every night online on the website or not book anything and just rock up to the refuge every day. During the busiest month , it is highly advised to book in advance, especially if you want to sleep in a bed. It also really helps the guardians if they know how many people will be there every night and you will pay significantly cheaper when you book in advance. The only issue is that your plans may change and it is hard to know exactly when you will be in a given refuge.

To sleep in a dorm , you’re going to have to book in advance as it is pretty much booked out every night.

If you have your own tent , you are the winner; you can easily pay as you go every day, there will always be a spot around the refuge to pitch your tent.

We decided to rent a tent at the refuge , and we did not book anything in advance. We paid €180 in total (2020 rates). Again they will always have a spot for you, however if you are doing it during the busiest month, you should probably book at least one night in advance every time to make sure they do have a tent for you.

If you have booked and paid everything online but are running (hiking) behind schedule, give the refuge a call and thy will arrange everything for you. You get service at least once during each stage, often when you are in altitude (and very rarely at the refuges).

It is good to know that no matter how busy it gets, the guardians won’t let anyone sleep out in the wild. If you arrive at a refuge and everything is booked out, they will find a solution (but don’t do this on purpose please). Wild camping is strictly prohibited on the GR20, you have to camp around the refuge or bergeries.

If you need more information, you can contact the national park office in Corsica: [email protected]

Tent or refuge?

We rented a tent every night and did not once sleep in a refuge. They are more comfortable , surprisingly, and they come with air mattresses so you don’t actually need to carry one. You also have a more peaceful sleep as opposed to sleeping in a dorm with several other people. However, it does get really cold at night and if it is raining or really windy , you will definitely not have the best sleep of your life. One night we had a helicopter fly above us for what felt like hours, as well as dogs barking all over the campground, so be prepared for that sort of things ahah.

We talked to a lot of people who were sleeping in the dorms and to be honest, all they talked about was the bed bugs. They are apparently everywhere on the GR20! Other than that, it is essentially a hostel: you get a proper bed but no privacy, a lot of noise and you won’t get to sleep until everyone is in bed. ?

Bergeries on the GR20

Bergeries are not part of the national park refuges network. They are private accommodation (usually the same price as refuges though) and you can find them on the way. To book a nignt, you need to call the owner directly. Here is the list with the phone numbers:

• Bergerie de Ballone (30min away from Tighjettu) : 06 12 03 44 65
• Bergerie de Vaccaghja (photo) : 04 95 48 00 48
• Bergerie de Croci : 06 75 49 60 59 – 09 82 12 33 10
• Bergerie de Basseta : 06 27 25 95 33
• Bergerie de Asinau Chez Aline : 06 17 53 98 92

Hotels on the GR20

You will find hotels at the start (Calenzana and Calvi) and the end of the GR20 (Conca). Story time, when we arrived in Conca, the owner of the San Pasquale hotel was driving past and she offered to take us with her! The hotel was really nice, with a restaurant at the back and a big terrace. Here are their phone numbers: +33 04 95 10 47 30 and +33 07 86 98 79 21.

Tu peux aussi trouver quelques hôtels sur la route . Le premier est à Ascu Stagnu , qui est en fait une station de ski et propose hôtel et restaurant. Puis tu trouveras l’hôtel Castel Vergio , à 1400m d’altitude, où tu pourras dormir et manger si tu le souhaites. Puis à mi chemin, plusieurs hôtels à Vizzavone : Casa Alta , U Castelli (là où l’on a dormi) ou encore Monte d’Oro . Il y a également des hôtels et gîtes à Bavella, qui a un accès par la route et accueille beaucoup de touristes.

You can also find some  hotels on your way across Corsica. There is  Ascu Stagnu , a ski resort with a hotel, refuge and restaurant. You then have  the Castel Vergio hotel , another ski station where you can resupply, sleep in a bed and eat a meal at a normal price. You will then find  several hotels in Vizzavone , the halfway point:  Casa Alta ,  U Castelli  (where we stayed) or  Monte d’Oro . All of those have road access too, which is always good to know, in case you need to get back to civilisation for any reason.

6. Food and water on the GR20

Two options to resupply.

Refuges / bergeries:  overpriced food, but food nonetheless. It has quite a large range of options too: canned food, biscuits, hot meals, sandwiches, breakfast and dinner…

Self-supported hike: you can choose to carry all your food with you for the whole hike (or at least most of it). The good news is that refuges have kitchens, so you can cook and eat hot food every night. Freeze-dried food is also a great option, both because it does not weight much and does not take up too much space in your bag.

We wanted to travel light , and decided to resupply in refuges every day. We would eat biscuit and sandwiches throughout the day and a big breakfast at the refuge every morning. We also carried some canned food with us just in case (beans and tuna). We’ve never had dinner at a refuge but it seemed to be pretty basic: pasta or rice, sauce and meat.

NB : refuges are not open all year round, during the winter most of them close their shops; you can sleep there but cannot buy food. They usually operate from June to September at least.

Water on the GR20

You will see many water sources on your way, however most of them are dry in summer. We were able to get water from 2 or 3 of them. Do not count on them, unless it is a particularly rainy summer (in which case you don’t want to be doing the GR20 ahah). We were carrying a 1L bottle each as well as one 2L pouch.

The rule of thumb: fill in your water bottles every time you come across a source or a refuge.

7. Full list of gear for the GR20

The gear you take will depend on the season , the weather and how long you plan to be there for. We did it the first week of September, with no snow and no heat wave. However, take some warm clothes even in summer as it does get cold at night!

Here is the list to hike the GR20 in summer :

• a pair of hiking socks (X-socks)
• Polar Ignite watch
• a 45-50L backpack
• a pair of trail shoes (On Cloudventure GTX)
• spare T-shirt
• long sleeves top (thermal for the night)
• 3-4 pairs of underwear
• spare shorts
• 2 spare sports bras
• 2 pairs of hiking socks
• thongs (useful for showers at the refuges)
• rain jacket
• warm jacket

Hygiene + first aid

• roll of toilet paper
• anti-inflammatory pills (to use with caution)
• anti-chaff cream for your feet, like the Nok cream
• Strapping tape (for muscle pain)
• water purifier (pills, I use Micropur)
• small towel
• sunscreen (50+)
• lip balm (great when it’s cold)

Electronics

• phone + charger
• battery pack + charger
• head torch + battery/charger
• (a camera if you want)
• sleeping bag
• electrician tape
• Passport (or any form of ID)
• Credit card (withdraw cash before you get to Calenzana)
• hiking poles (optional)

Food + water

• snacks / bars (Cliffbar)
• dried fruits
• small plastic bags (to put food in)
• freeze-dried food
• fork / knife
• water bottles

8. Gear Q&A for the GR20

Self-sufficient or not.

Being self-sufficient is fun when you can go wild camping. However, this is strictly forbidden on the GR20 so you cannot be self-sufficient there. Since they will give you a tent and mattress , we felt it was unnecessary to carry those and preferred carrying less stuff. I had a sleeping bag that could go down to 10°c and I did get cold almost every night . You can either get a sleeping bag that goes down to 0°c or wear several layers at night.

Hiking poles or not?

Everyone on the Facebook group was saying how essential it is to have hiking poles. I bought some in Calvi, attached them to my bag and literally never used them . I left them in a refuge on day 3 or 4. We realised that people who were doing the GR20 ‘fast’ (7 days or less) did not use hiking poles; they honestly slow you down as you have to look not only at where you put your feet, but also where you put your hiking poles. I know this is going to be an unpopular opinion, but seriously, if you are wondering whether you should bring some, I really suggest that you try hiking with some and see if you actually use them at all!

Specific gear?

In winter , you will probably need some mountain gear like studs . There are plenty of people who did it in winter and wrote articles about it, if you Google it!

In summer , you only really need sunscreen and sunglasses (in winter too I guess). Being in the sun from 6:00 to 20:00 definitely damages your skin and eyes ahah. You can also bring a pair of gloves , they can be useful if you walk at night or even when you need to use your hands to climb up some sections of the GR.

What kind of sleeping bag?

We were there at the end of August and the nights are COLD . It will go below 0°c so prepare for that, either with some clothes to put on at night or with a decent sleeping bag . This is the kind of extra weight that you will be glad you carried!

What size / weight for my backpack?

Rule of thumb: do not carry more than 20% of your own weight..

For 7 days (without a tent), my bag weighted around 8 kilos , 9 with water. If you want to carry all your food and camping gear , you can add a good 2-3 kilos to that. A 10-kilo backpack seems to be the sweet spot for most people we talked to. It adds up pretty quickly too, and you might have to invest in some lighter gear if you want to hike faster!

The size of your bag depends on what you want to bring with you.

With a sleeping bag but no tent, a 50L bag was more than enough. When we did the Pyrénées in 2021 with both tent and sleeping bag, we found that a 70L bag would have been better.

Now, what kind of bag should you get? The most important thing is to have a bag that rests on your hips (and not on your shoulders). It’s also nice to have a bag that leaves a gap between your back and the back of the bag (wow, that was a heavy sentence). Always good to have pockets on the outside too, to quickly access the stuff you need during the day. I also found that the bigger the bag, the more stuff you want to take… Having a smaller backpack helps you pack less, because you have very little room to start with!

Ok this is it!

Good luck for your future GR20, it’s the adventure of a lifetime .

To remind yourself that you can cross mountains but most importantly you can move them.

And do so much more than you thought you could.

I hope this article was useful and made you want to pack your bag and jump in a plane to Corsica.

If that’s the case (or not), don’t hesitate to leave a comment below, it’s always useful to hear your opinion so I can improve! 🙂

And if you have any other questions, you can contact me at [email protected]

See you in the next article!

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A very informative read! Thanks in particular about the vegetarian food comment. Being vegetarian I’ve been hoping someone would mention this eventually.

I feel you, I am vege myself and have never found any info about this in any article!! I’m glad I could be of some help 🙂

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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!

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

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

( 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! 

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). 

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.  

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. 

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. 

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. 

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).

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 . 

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). 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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

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!

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. 

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). 

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!

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 . 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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 . 

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 . 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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:

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 . 

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). 

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 . 

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). 

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).  

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. 

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! 

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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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 type, 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 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.

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.

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.

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 de Carrozzu

Refuge de carrozzu.

Refuge de Carrozzu - Refuge d'Asco Stagnu

Refuge d'asco stagnu.

Refuge d'Asco Stagnu - 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 Manganu

Refuge de manganu.

Refuge de Manganu - Refuge de Pietra Piana

Refuge de pietra piana.

Refuge de Pietra Piana - Refuge de l'Onda

Refuge de l'onda.

Refuge de l'Onda - Le Vizzavona

Le vizzavona.

Le Vizzavona - Gite u Fugone

Gite u fugone.

Gite u Fugone - Refuge de Prati

Refuge de prati.

Refuge de Prati - Refuge d'Usciolu

Refuge d'usciolu.

Refuge d'Usciolu - Refuge d'Asinao

Refuge d'asinao.

Refuge d'Asinao - 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.

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:

• Peter Habeler Runde
• Salzburger Almenweg
• Berliner Höhenweg

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• Climb Mount Triglav
• Palaronda Trek
• Alta Via del Granito
• Walker's Haute Route
• Tour du Mont Blanc
• Tour du Mont Thabor
• Hut-to-Hut in Mercantour
• Carros de Foc
• Porta del Cel
• Peaks of the Balkan Trail
• Menalon Trail
• Corfu Trail
• Climbing Olympus
• Laugavegur Trail
• Fimmvörðuháls Hike

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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

Hiking the GR20 in Corsica from North to South

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.  The GR20 is the best and toughest long distance hike out there!  Stunningly beautiful and varied. If you do a stage per day, it takes roughly 16 days, this will depend, of course, on your fitness and the weather. In the North, you are constantly doing steep ascents and plunging descents. In the South, there are different challenges, such as, long technical exposed ridges.

On this website, you will find all the information you need to prepare for your trip, reserve your night stops, choose your gear and pack your bag right.  This will maximize your chances of having an enjoyable and successful trek.

This website will give you all the information you need to plan and prepare for this great mountain walk.  Before you undertake the GR20 hike, you must get mountain fit, do not underestimate the challenge.

As well as looking at the different sources of information available, you should also purchase the relevant  IGN 1:25 000 maps. You may  wish to contact one of the local agencies who specialize in organizing this mythical trek .

Local GR20 specialists CORSICA AVENTURE

If you are looking to organise your GR20 Hike with no hassle, we can recommend the local agency CORSICA AVENTURE who offer both guided GR20 Treks as well as the GR20 without a guide. They reserve your accommodation in refuges, huts, gites and hotels on the GR20, they can order your meals at the refuges on the trail, and offer you transfers to the trail head at Calenzana or Conca, as well as luggage transport services to certain nights on the trail. Specialised in the GR20 for over 20 years, they also have an information site on the GR20.

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GR20 South Trek

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

Embark on a 8-day self-guided trek from Vizzavona to Conca on the island of Corsica

Take the first step towards a private travel experience, customized just for you.

About this tour:

What travellers are saying about 10Adventures

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Why travellers choose this tour

At 10Adventures, we take care of the details so that our guests can focus on making memories. Enjoy these key features on this tour.

We're Canadian

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Accommodations

Accommodations for 7 nights along the tour as described. Spend each night in dormitory-style accommodations. The first and last dormitory nights can be upgraded to double-occupancy hotel rooms for an additional fee.

Don't worry about meals. 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners are included in this tour.

Check out the 'What's Included' tab for more info on personal transfers during your tour.

Local Support

Travel stress-free knowing in-country local support is available by regular phone or WhatsApp to support you during your tour.

Payments Made Easy

Enjoy the flexibility and ease of staggered payments in your own currency using your choice of credit card.

Route Resources

Route notes, maps, and/or a trail app make navigation on this tour a breeze.

Park Entrance Fees

Included where possible! Check the 'What's Included' tab for more info on park entrance fees during your tour.

Luggage transfers

Take a load off, with optional or included luggage transfers. Check inclusions for further details.

Accommodation for GR20 South Trek

This tour is based in mountain gites (dormitory-style). Nights 1 and 7 can be upgraded to a double occupancy hotel room for an additional fee.

In some cases, accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other, comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travelers As this is a dormitory style trip, single rooms are not available.

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!

Refuges along GR20 trail

Stay in a rustic refuge along the GR20 trail. You will share the living spaces with other fellow trekkers.

Hotels on Standard Tour

Planning a group trip?

Learn how we help group of friends, outdoor clubs and families get the tour they’ve been dreaming about.

GR20 South Trek Tour Details

Overview for gr20 south trek.

The GR20 trail in Corsica is widely considered to be one of the best treks in the world. This self-guided trekking tour takes you through the southern half of the trail, from Vizzavona to Conca. Along the way, you’ll encounter the stunning landscape of this rugged and scenic Mediterranean island.

Climb mountain passes and follow ridge lines with breathtaking views at every turn. Hike through valleys and cross streams, enjoying the cool shade of Corsica’s distinctive forests. All practical details, such as meals, overnight accommodations, and luggage transfers, are provided for you, leaving you free to fully enjoy this amazing trek. The GR20 South self-guided trek is a tour you do not want to miss.

Itinerary for GR20 South Trek

Arrival in vizzavona.

Welcome to Corsica! Make your way to Vizzavona where you will enjoy dinner and a night in a dormitory-style gite.

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 the 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

Climb to the Bocca d’Oro pass then cross the alpine fields of the Prato plateau. This ridgeline offers an amazing view of the beautiful Taravo River and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea to the east. Continue your 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 gite.

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 South trekking tour comes to an end after breakfast. Airport transfers can be arranged for an additional fee. Have a pleasant journey!

Tour Highlights

Highlights for gr20 south trek.

Marvel at the incredible views along the hike each day, overlooking lakes, rivers, and the sea.

Pause to rest and take a refreshing dip in the stream at the I Spiazzi footbridge.

Discover Corsica’s unique plant and animal life.

Trek up rugged peaks and ridges, including Mount Incudine, Bocca di l’Usciolu, and Palmente pass.

What's Included

What's included for gr20 south trek.

7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners are included in this tour.

Transportation during the Tour

Luggage transfers are not included but can be booked for an extra charge. Any other transfers are not included.

Also Included

• Local assistance as needed
• Route notes and maps on our app (a smartphone and extra battery are necessary)

Not included

• Transportation to or from the island of Corsica
• Airport transfers and any other transportation
• Meals not listed as included
• Admission to tourist attractions
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance

Optional Extras

• Airport transfers (prices are on request)

Dates & Prices

Dates and prices for gr20 south 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 and your travelling dates. The prices below are per person, sharing a double or a triple room.

• Self-guided groups of 2+: from $775 USD per person

Accommodation

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Tour Booking Process

Booking process for gr20 south trek.

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Frequently asked questions for GR20 South Trek

How hard is the GR20 South 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 GR20 South Trek?

Dinners are included on days 1-7. Breakfasts are included on all 7 mornings, and picnic lunches are included on days 2-7.

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 Vizzavona to start this tour?

You can fly to the Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport (AJA). Airport transfers from the airport to the hostel can be arranged for an additional fee. You can also reach Vizzavona by train from Ajaccio, Bastia, and Calvi.

Where does the GR20 South 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. Trains are available to Ajaccio Airport during peak season (July/August).

What do I need to pack for this tour?

For GR20 South Trek we recommend on having with you:

• 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

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.

Are luggage transfers included in the GR20 South trekking tour?

Yes. Please be sure that you pack in only one bag that is either soft or on wheels, and that your bag weighs no more than 15 kg.

Tour Difficulty

Difficulty for gr20 south trek.

Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

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Hiking the GR20 in Corsica, France, with Marianne Bohr

"there are dreamers and there are planners; the planners make their dreams come true.” edwin louis cole, “if you want to make god laugh, tell him about your plans.”  woody allen based on yiddish expression “we plan, god laughs.”.

After retiring from their full-time jobs at age 60 and every detail of their trip carefully planned, almost , it was time to hit the trail, so to speak. Marianne and her husband Joe began their training regimen in June 2015 conditioning their bodies and building stamina as they prepared for the rigors that would test the endurance of their aging bodies. But with all the careful planning in the world, there is one unforeseen detail that Marianne never could have planned, a detail that would greatly impact the entire trip—an unexpected diagnosis of a condition that would not only ultimately test her physically but emotionally as well.

A love affair with husband, new friends, and the Twenty

As we hike along vicariously, we learn how to make love with granite while experiencing exhilarating scenery, topped by towering moutainscapes in the daytime, and at night, the heavens shine with radiant light. We encounter dangerous slopes with falling rocks, celebrate the views from the mountaintops as we ravenously scarf down midday meals during one of the breaks and by the end of a 10- to 12-mile hike, we endure less-than-luxe refuges with inherent dangers of their own.

But despite the stumbling and struggling, the falling and dangers of slipping down mountainsides, we are treated to moments of levity replete with many laugh-out-loud moments leaving you in tears. How many of you have heard of HAFE? Well, you will find out more about this and other endearing qualities of Marianne’s fellow hikers, all of whom we get to know quite well by the end of the book.

A Moment to Rejoice

This exciting book that blends treacherous moments of their expedition, the warmth and love of marriage and camaraderie of friendship, and the celebratory moments of daily triumphs when they reached their refuges for the night, “The Twenty” is part memoir, part travelogue and is recounted step by step in Marianne Bohr’s latest book which releases on Tuesday, June 6; a unique and compelling read that proved to be rewarding on so many levels! You don’t have to be hiker to read “The Twenty” but you do have to understand the human condition—an experience that’s not limited to an outer journey we encounter along this path of life but the inward journey and the reflections and reconciliations along the way.

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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 Trek: All About The Adventurous Trek In Corsica For All Trekkers!

23 Mar 2023

Europe has several places that are fit for you to roam through it. Most people invest their time in discovering the cities that have significance. But along with that one should also come closer to nature. They can do this by using trekking as their tool to discover places. Europe is also known for its mountains, so it is evident that it does have many trekking trails in it. So, let us discover one of them which is regarded as one of the best in Europe. Famed as the GR20 trek , this trek is also considered as one of the toughest in the area.

About GR20 Trek

The GR20 is a long distance trail that goes through Corsica, France diagonally from North to South. The total distance of the gr20 trek is 180 KM long. So, people want to spend a lot of time in the mountains will definitely like this trail. GR 20 is divided into the Northern and Southern trails, the former being more difficult. The choice of the trail dictates the places that one will see on their journey. In the Northern route, the journey starts from Calenzana and ends at Vizzavona. Whereas in the Southern route, it starts at Vizzavona and ends at Conca.

People will need to dedicate their time in the Northern part as it may take a longer time to accomplish. The routes are spectacular as they are still in the pristine natural condition. You will be amazed to see the mountains that are rugged. When someone reaches Vizzavona they can take a little time out and take the train to different villages around the island. The starting route doesn’t actually matter when it comes to this trek. Just go with the flow and we are sure that you will have a good time. Check the gr20 map on the internet to have a better idea about the route and the trek.

Must Read: 12 Museums In France Where You Get To Be A Part Of Its Glorious History

Best Time For The Hike

The GR20 trek takes you through a rugged mountainous region that wouldn’t be available as a trekking point throughout the year. So, we are here to tell you about the best time when you can enjoy your trek without any problems. The place is clean for trek during the summer months. The months of June to early September is when you should visit the gr20 trek in Corsica.

This is actually the time when you can see the spectacular scenes without getting caught into snow or rain. People who do not want to be in a crowded place should aim to visit the place during late June or early September. This is also the time when the accommodation called ‘refuge’ is in full bloom and ready to serve the people. Trekking isn’t allowed in the winter months. But cross-country skiers may get permission to cross the trekking trail. So, bear these things in mind when you sit to plan your trip.

Places To Visit At GR20

You may have heard people regarding GR20 best treks as something that you should experience in your life. We think that this is absolutely true as you will miss out on a lot of things if you do not discover the places that make up this trail. So, below a few of the things that you are able to see while you enjoy your journey.

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1. Lac De Nino

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This is a glacial lake that you will be when you are trekking. Among the mountains, it is a lovely sight because of its blue water. You will be amazed to see the setting of the lake as it is nestled by the entire nature.

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2. Monte Incudine

This is the highest point that you will experience in the southern Corsica. It has an elevation of 2136 m. Plateau Coscione, the granite elevation of the place is a very famous point which you must see in your tour. If you are interested in staying in vistas, then this is the place where you will find several nice ones.

Suggested Read: 13 Festivals In France That You Cannot Afford To Miss On Your Visit To L’hexagone In 2022

3. Aiguilles De Bavella

One of the main attractions of a mountainous region are the cliffs that one may see. In Aiguilles de Bavella contains spikes made of red graphite. They look spectacular and you wouldn’t miss them as they form an integral part of your journey in the hiking trail.

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Cost & Duration Of Trail

When you are planning a trek, the question of money arises very quickly. Everyone should be aware of the cost that they have to bear during the journey. The cost involved in trekking is very subjective as it mostly depends on the amenities availed by the person. In the case of GR 20, the main cost will be of the accommodation, food, trekking permits etc. If someone wants to take a gr20 guided trek, then they will have a better idea about the tour. For that, they should definitely check the internet as tourism companies often update their details on the websites.

The gr20 trek isn’t something that you can finish in a day. You have to dedicate your time and patience which walking through this island in Europe. The trek can last anywhere from 11 to 15 days depending on the pace and ability of an individual or a person. So, definitely think about your endurance and trekking capability when you are planning for such a route. People can take it in a leisurely pace if they are in a mood to enjoy the beautiful sceneries.

Suggested Read: 21 Best Places To Visit In France In Winter 2021-22 For A Blissful Holiday Experience!

What To Pack?

Do you get tensed when you think about packing for a trek? If yes, then you are among many who fret about it. But packing isn’t actually that difficult and anyone can do it. Beginners always commit the problem of excessive packing. In trekking, you actually do not require much other than the essentials. The back should have everything but it should also be easy to carry on your back. So, here are some things that you should pack:

• Comfortable and weather appropriate clothes.
• Good quality hiking shoes that are of a snug fit.
• Toiletries, first aid box, medicines and other things that you may need from time to time.
• An adequate amount of dry foods to provide you energy.
• Pack a good water bottle in which you can fill up from time to time.
• Flashlight, sunscreen, caps, insect repellent and other things that will help you to stay away from nature’s harshness.
• Do not forget to have a dedicated space for your documents and money.
• Anything else that you think will be essential in your journey.

• Always remember that this is an extensive journey where you need to hike up a place with high altitude. So, be prepared for that.
• Drink plenty of water when you are on the journey. This will help you to remain hydrated and avoid body cramps.
• Take good food and have your meals on time. This will provide you with adequate energy.
• Plan everything way ahead of time so that you do not need to miss out on anything.

Further Read: France Nightlife: Learn The French Way To Get High On Life

So, here are the things that you should know about the GR20 trekking trail. We hope that this will help you in discovering the trail. The information will provide you with the basic details that you need to embark on the journey. So, get geared up and plan your trip to France right away!

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