GR20 Complete Self-guided Hike

Your ultimate adventure begins in Calvi. Take the day to relax, recharge and fill your supplies as you prepare yourself for an epic journey through some of the most breathtaking terrains Europe has to offer. Make sure you have all the necessary equipment and get a good night’s sleep.

Your first day begins with a quick taxi ride to Calezana, the official starting point of the GR20.
You will dive straight into a challenging ascent from Calenzana across the massif of Bonifatu. Due to varied terrain and steep elevation, your first day will also be one of the most exhausting and rewarding. Soon enough you will be looking down at the coastline, making your way towards the Refuge d’Ortu di u Piobbu for some well-deserved rest.

Today will require some navigation of difficult terrain. The trail will take you right into the heart of the mountains. You will work your way around the edge of a large cirque, which will require some climbing, but the views of the highest peaks will make it worth the trouble. You will spend the night at Refuge de Carrozzu to recharge your batteries.

As you leave the refuge, you will make your way towards the famous Spasimata slabs and across the Spasimata suspension bridge. Although some sections of the path have helpful cables, most of the slabs are unprotected so make sure you proceed with caution. The ascent towards the Bocca di Stagnu is challenging as well, but as you descend to Refuge d’Asco Stagnu, you will feel nothing but pride for having put another challenging day behind you.

This segment will guide you through the heart of Corsica’s high mountains, ascending to the desolate yet beautiful landscapes around Vallone. The route is steep and challenging, with a rocky path and loose scree. It will take you to a small lake and forward to the ‘Pointe des Eboulis’, the highest point of the GR20 hike with a breathtaking view. Continue onwards to Vallone to end your day with a nice meal and a place to rest.

Today you will head on towards Refuge de Ciottulu di i Mori, known for hosting Corsica’s highest waterfall. The journey’s rugged paths will lead through some of the GR20’s most breathtaking panoramas, offering unspoiled views of the island’s mountainous heart. The climb involves a continuous, steep ascent. It includes a few brief sections where hands-on climbing is necessary. The route lacks shade, making the climb particularly strenuous. The Refuge te Ciottulu di i Mori where you will spend the night is the highest one on the trail and a great place to enjoy a drink and take in the views.

After a couple of difficult days, it is time to enjoy your connection with nature. Today’s long hike weaves through the picturesque shepherd’s paths to the tranquil Refuge de Manganu. The route is adorned with streams and lush meadows, showcasing Corsica’s diverse beauty. Keep your eyes out for wild horses as you pass Lake Nino and head on to Refuge de Manganu for the night.

Your journey continues to Refuge de Pietra Piana through paths flanked by the dramatic Corsican landscapes, revealing pristine lakes Melu and Capitello and the majestic Monte Rotondo. It’s another day filled with nature’s artworks, culminating in the serene setting of Pietra Piana.

Transitioning through diverse terrains, today’s route takes you from the alpine ambiance of Pietra Piana down to the wooded sanctuary surrounding Refuge de l’Onda. Some passages on the path might be tricky, especially in case of strong winds. It’s a relatively short yet technical section. In bad weather, particularly if it’s windy, the ridge walk is replaced by a GR20 variant that is at a lower level and leads safely down into the valley. You arrive at Refuge de l’Onda cutting out the exposed section.

Descending towards the forested heart of Corsica, Vizzavona offers a welcoming break from the high mountains. This leg combines gentle paths with the historical and natural charm of Vizzavona, inviting you to explore its lush forests and small waterfalls. The day is relatively light so you can really take the time to appreciate how far you’ve come.

From Vizzavona, the path to Bocca Palmente is a well-maintained, zigzagging trail through the woods, offering an easy hike. After crossing the high col, the trail descends and follows a gentle, up-and-down route. Along the way, you’ll encounter two well-maintained shepherd’s cabins, Alzeta and Scarpaceghje. A final ascent through the woods leads you to a point just above the ski station at Capannelle.

Today, you will head towards the scenic sheepfolds of Traghjete, then continue your hike to the Plateau of Ghialgone. Cross the I Spiazzi footbridge, a popular spot for bathing and a quick refresh, and make your way down through the forest until you arrive at the Col de Verde, where you will stay overnight.

This leg of your adventure will reintroduce you to the rugged splendour of Corsica as you continue to a higher ridge walk. On one side, you will get to gaze down the East coast, and marvel at the valley of Taravo on the other. The day will be long and exposed so make sure you watch your step as you head to Refuge d’Usciolu.

Today’s hike to Cuscionu plateau challenges you with steep ascents and descents. The ridge you will walk across is roughly at 1800m and the trail topples from one side to the other so you have to go slowly. As you get to Croci, find some time to unwind and properly rest as tomorrow will be another challenging trail that will require a lot of focus.

Another challenging trek will take you uphill towards the ridge and Bocca Chiralba, the highest mountain in the south section. The route heads down the other side of the ridge, down to the Asinau Valley. After a brief walk through the forest, you will encounter the high needles of Bavella. The path to the col de Bavella where you will spend the night is rough underfoot and requires a lot of concentration, but the views will be worth every careful step you take.

Your final trek from Bavella to Conca is a descent through diverse ecosystems, culminating in the picturesque village of Conca. This last day blends the awe of Corsica’s mountain majesty with the warming sense of accomplishment as the GR20 journey concludes.