The GR20 in Corsica

An island of surreal beauty, Corsica features dramatic mountains, enchanting coastlines and ethereal vistas. Bare rock and cliff contrast with black sandy beaches, alpine pastures and forests. Mediterranean ambience abounds, history lingers and culture is celebrated, making it the perfect destination for an adventure-packed trek.

The classic GR20, the north-south crossing of the rugged Corsican mountains. Beginning in the northwest of Corsica, in the picturesque CalenzanaThe route winds its way southeast, through the heart of Corsica, and ends on the eastern side of the island, just north of Porto Vecchioin the municipality of Conca. Described in 16 stages with high and low level alternatives for the relevant stages, the route has a length of approx. 200 km and takes approximately two weeks to complete. The GR20 climbs up into the mountains. It is a demanding trek and only suitable for experienced walkers.

📚 Practical guide

The GR20 is a long-distance trail that can be started either from Calenzana, in the north, or from Conca, in the south. The journey is divided into two parts: the north, with a more rugged and technical terrain, and the south, which is a little gentler but equally challenging. Over the course of this journey, hikers accumulate over 12,000 metres of vertical drop positive, passing through landscapes of unparalleled beauty, from rugged mountains to dense forests and crystal clear rivers.

Vizzavona acts as the unofficial mid-pointby dividing the route into two distinct sections. This feature allows adventurers to choose to tackle the challenge in stages, depending on their experience and endurance.

When to go?

GR20: Possibly mid-May to mid-OctoberJune or September is ideal, with July and August being the hottest and busiest months.

Other routes: Any time of year for the coastal routes, but avoid July and August because of the heat and overcrowding. From March to May the mountains are colourful with flowers. May to September is best for the mountains.

Difficulty & Tips

The GR20 is a challenging hike (with difficulty) through isolated mountainous terrain for experienced and fit walkers; backpackers everywhere.

Not to be missed

• The ascent of Monte Cinto and the ascent of Paglia Orba.
• Views of the Aiguilles de Bavella, bridges and ancient villages, mountain and coastal landscapes to take your breath away.

Cities & Services

GR20 reference centres: Calvi, Vizzavona, Porto Vecchio; limited accommodation and facilities on or near the route.

General base camps on the island: Calvi, Cargese, Calenzana, Moriani, Corte, Porto-Vecchio, Propriano, Ajaccio and Bonifacio. A fantastic range of comfortable, well-run hostels and hotels ensure that the walker is never far from an overnight stop and the enjoyment of excellent catering.

🗺️ Stages of the GR20

• Stage 1A Calenzana to Refugio d'Ortu di u Piobbu (difficult)
• Stage 1B Calenzana to Refugio d'Ortu di u Piobbu (easy)
• Stage 2A Refugio d'Ortu di u Piobbu to Refugio de Carozzu (difficult)
• Stage 2B Refugio d'Ortu di u Piobbu to Refugio de Carozzu (easy)
• Stage 3 Carozzu refuge to Ascu Stagnu
• Stage 4 Ascu Stagnu to Auberge U Vallone
• Stage 5 Auberge U Vallone to Hôtel Castel di Vergio
• Excursion Ascent of Paglia Orba from Refugio de Ciottulu di I Mori
• Stage 6 Hôtel Castel di Vergio to Refuge of Manganu
• Linking route: Bergeries from Vaccaghja to Corte
• Linking route: Manganu hut to Soccia
• Stage 7 Refuge of Manganu to Refuge of Petra Piana
• Linking route: Brèche de Capitellu or Bocca a Soglia to Bergeries de Grotelle
• Excursion Ascent of Monte Ritondu from Refuge of Petra Piana
• Stage 8A Petra Piana hut to l'Onda hut (easy)
• Stage 8B Petra Piana hut to l'Onda hut (difficult)
• Linking route: Bergeries from Tolla to Tattone and Vizzavona
• Stage 9A Refugio de l'Onda to Vizzavona (easy)
• Stage 9B Refugio de l'Onda to Vizzavona (difficult)
• Stage 10 Vizzavona to Bergeries d' E Capanelle
• Linking route: La Foce to Bocca Palmento
• Stage 11A Bergeries d' E Capanelle to Bocca di Verdi (easy)
• Stage 11B Bergeries d' E Capanelle to Bocca di Verdi (difficult)
• Stage 12 Bocca di Verdi to Refugio d'Usciolu
• Linking route: Usciolu hut to Cozzano
• Stage 13 Usciolu Refuge to Matalza Refuge
• Linking route: Tignosellu to Zicavo
• Linking route: Zicavo to Refugio de Matalza
• Stage 14 Matalza hut to Asinau hut
• Alt Stage 13/14 Refuge d'Usciolu to Refuge d'Asinau (variant)
• Stage 15A Refugio d'Asinau to Village de Bavella (easy)
• Stage 15B Refuge d'Asinau to Village de Bavella (difficult)
• Stage 16 Village de Bavella a Conca

📋 Preparation and equipment

• Essential equipmentGiven the technical nature and physical demands of the GR20, it is crucial to have the right equipment. This includes sturdy hiking shoes (trekking shoes are becoming increasingly popular, but make sure they are sturdy), a trekking backpack with sufficient capacity to carry food, water, tent (if out of season) and sleeping bag, plus suitable clothing for sudden changes in temperature. (see TREKKING EQUIPMENT for Great Trails).
• Prepare yourself physically and mentallyPreparation beforehand is essential to enjoy and complete the route safely. You can read the following article: Here's how to train for trekking on long-distance trails
• Logistics and accommodationOutside the high season, approximately 50% of the refuges remain closed, requiring tents to be carried. It is vital to plan accommodation and transport logistics to and from the start and end points, considering flight options to Corsica's four international airports and local transport.
• BudgetCorsica can be an expensive destination, especially in high season. Planning your trip in low season can be an effective strategy to reduce costs, but always be prepared for autonomy on the road.

🥾 Other long-distance routes

We highlight 3 other long-distance hiking routes in Corsica, in addition to the legendary GR20. Coast-to-coast routes through the rugged mountainous interior and the gentler south, along with the exceptional coastal strip.

• Sea and mountains: From Calenzana to Cargèse
• North Sea: From Cargèse to Moriani
• South Sea: from Porto-Vecchio to Propriano

🥾 Other excursions

Day walks in prime locations, both in the rugged mountains of the interior and the gentler coastal strip in the south. Explore towering forests, gushing waterfalls, beautiful secluded coves, aromatic maquis and spectacular river gorges. The best landscapes and unspoilt nature are unavoidable!

• St-Florent Coastal Route
• Vallée du Fango
• Girolata
• Spelunca Gorge
• Excursion To Calanche
• Capu Rossu
• Aïtone Forest and Rock Pools
• La Paglia Orba
• The Tavignano Bridge
• Glacial Lakes in the Restonica Valley
• La Cascade des Anglais
• Trou de la Bombe
• Foce Finosa
• Zonza-Quenza Circuit
• Cucuruzzu and Capula Archaeological Sites
• Punta di a Vacca Morta
• Piscia di Gallo Waterfall
• White cliffs Bonifacio