Trekking the GR20 Corsica

Tackle one of Europe’s greatest trekking challenges on the GR20, Corsica’s legendary high-level route that runs the length of the island’s mountainous spine from Calinzana in the north to Conca in the south. Often described as Europe’s toughest trek, this 190km (118-mile) trail is best suited to experienced hikers as it follows rugged granite ridges and remote cols, with steep ascents, scrambling sections and exposure to rapidly changing mountain weather.

This expertly crafted Cicerone guidebook is the essential companion for anyone planning to tackle the GR20, whether you aim to complete the full route in 16 days or focus on one half. The trek is commonly split into the northern section, widely considered the most challenging with its rugged alpine terrain and exposed scrambles, and the southern section, which is still demanding but generally less technical.

The GR20 is split into 16 stages (5 to 20km per stage) with high-level and low-level alternatives for some sections, so you can make the journey your own
Detailed route descriptions and elevation profiles are supported by a separate map booklet featuring 1:25,000 IGN mapping with the route line clearly marked for navigation through Corsica's rugged mountains
Tips from experienced author, Paddy Dillon, on safety measures, what to pack and when to go are provided, essential when tackling such a tough trek
Accommodation listings are included for each stage, which are mainly refuges maintained by Parc Naturel Régional de Corse. Clear guidance on where advance booking is required is also provided.
Downloadable GPX files are available for the entire trail from Calinzana to Conca, as a digital navigation option for use on smartphones and GPS devices


More than just a walk, the GR20 is a true test of endurance, resilience and spirit. With this trusted Cicerone guidebook in your pack, you’ll be fully equipped to face the challenge, embrace the unpredictability and experience the raw beauty of Corsica’s mountains. Plan well, walk wisely, and step into an adventure that will stay with you long after the final descent to the Mediterranean.

Seasons

Possible June to mid-October; June or September is ideal, with July and August being the hottest and busiest months. Snow and ice make the trail exceptionally dangerous.

Centres

Calinzana, Ascu Stagnu, Vizzavona, Conca. Detours can be made to Corti, Cuzzà and Zicavu.

Difficulty

The GR20 is a challenging walk involving plenty of hands-on scrambling, through isolated mountain terrain. Take note of weather conditions and avoid lingering snow and ice early in the season, or thunderstorms at any time. The GR20 is for experienced, fit walkers prepared to carry backpacking kit.

Must See

Great mountain views; optional ascents of Monte Cinto and Paglia Orba; optional detour to the ancient mountain capital of Corti

Map key

Overview map

Route summary table

Introduction

Geology

Brief history

Getting to Corsica

Getting around Corsica

Getting to the GR20

When to trek

How to trek

Maps

Mountain weather

Path conditions

Mountain rescue

What to take

Services along the route

Food, drink and fuel

Language

Currency

Using this guide

Plants and wildlife on Corsica

Maquis

Trees

Flowers

Wildlife

The GR20

Stage 1A Calinzana to Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu (high-level)

Stage 1B Calinzana to Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu (low-level)

Excursion Ascent of Monte Corona from Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu

Stage 2A Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu to Refuge de Carozzu (high-level)

Stage 2B Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu to Refuge de Carozzu (low-level)

Stage 3 Refuge de Carozzu to Ascu Stagnu

Stage 4 Ascu Stagnu to Auberge U Vallone

Link route Auberge U Vallone to Albertacce

Stage 5 Auberge U Vallone to Hôtel Castel di Vergio

Excursion Ascent of Paglia Orba from Refuge de Ciotullu di I Mori

Stage 6 Hôtel Castel di Vergio to Refuge de Manganu

Link route Bergerie de Vaccaghja to Corti

Link route Refuge de Manganu to Soccia

Stage 7 Refuge de Manganu to Refuge de Petra Piana

Link route Br&##xe8;che de Capitellu or Bocca a Soglia to Bergeries de Grottelle

Excursion Ascent of Monte Ritondu from Refuge de Petra Piana

Stage 8A Refuge de Petra Piana to Refuge de l'Onda (low-level)

Stage 8B Refuge de Petra Piana to Refuge de l'Onda (high-level)

Link route Bergerie de Tolla to Tattone and Vizzavona

Stage 9A Refuge de l'Onda to Vizzavona (low-level)

Stage 9B Refuge de l'Onda to Vizzavona (high-level)

Stage 10 Vizzavona to Bergeries d'E Capanelle

Link route La Foce to Bocca Palmentu

Stage 11A Bergeries d'E Capanelle to Bocca di Verdi (low-level)

Stage 11B Bergeries d'E Capanelle to Bocca di Verdi (high-level)

Stage 12 Bocca di Verdi to Refuge d'Usciolu

Link route Refuge d'Usciolu to Cuzz&##xe0;

Stage 13 Refuge d'Usciolu to Refuge de Matalza

Link route Tignosellu to Zicavu

Link route Zicavu to Refuge de Matalza

Stage 14 Refuge de Matalza to Refuge d'Asinau

Alt Stage 13/14 Refuge d'Usciolu to Refuge d'Asinau (variant)

Stage 15A Refuge d'Asinau to Bavedda (low-level)

Stage 15B Refuge d'Asinau to Bavedda (high-level)

Stage 16 Bavedda to Conca

Appendix A Facilities along the route (Calinzana to Conca)

Appendix B Facilities along the route (Conca to Calinzana)

Appendix C Accommodation list

Appendix D Basic language notes

Appendix E Useful contacts

Appendix F The Cirque de la Solitude