The GR20 trek in Corsica is considered one of the most spectacular and demanding long-distance trails in the world, as well as the toughest in Europe. This legendary itinerary crosses Corsica from north-west to south-east, entering a wild environment where the alpine soul of the mountains meets Mediterranean light and landscapes.
Known locally as Fra li Monti, the GR20 in Corsica follows sharp ridges, rocky walls and technical passages that often require the use of your hands for scrambling. It is not a simple hike, but a continuous, essential and authentic alpine experience, where nature remains the absolute protagonist and the hiker becomes an active part of it.
The refuges and bergerie along the route follow the same philosophy: minimal services, simple hospitality and complete immersion in the wild Corsican environment.
The proposed itinerary follows the original GR20 North route, enriched by iconic variants such as the passage through the Cirque de la Solitude and the ascent of Monte Cinto (2,706 m), the highest summit in Corsica. It is a way to experience the trek in its most complete, intense and representative form.
Highlights
- One of the toughest and most iconic treks in Europe.
- Complete traverse of Corsica from Calenzana to Vizzavone.
- Itinerary with the most iconic technical variants: Cirque de la Solitude and Monte Cinto.
- Wild alpine environment in a Mediterranean setting.
- Essential and authentic refuges and bergerie.
- A physically and emotionally intense experience.
Best for
The GR20 North is designed for experienced, well-trained hikers with good alpine experience and the ability to move on technical and exposed terrain.
It is ideal for those looking for a physical and mental challenge, far from classic treks, and for those who want to experience a total, authentic immersion in Corsica’s wild nature.
This is not a tourist trek, but a true mountaineering-style experience of endurance and adaptation.
Program
- Day 1 – The meeting in the afternoon in Calenzana (275 m) marks the beginning of the adventure. Here you meet the guide for the first technical briefing, check the equipment and gradually enter the rhythm of the journey. The day ends with dinner and overnight stay in the village.
- Day 2 – The trail begins to climb steadily, gradually entering Corsica’s mountain landscape. The destination is Refuge de l’Ortu di U Piobbo (1,520 m), reached after a long ascent. Dinner and overnight stay. Technical data: 11 km / +1,450 m / -250 m.
- Day 3 – The day is dedicated to a panoramic traverse between ridges and valleys, reaching Refuge de Carrozzo (1,270 m). A shorter but continuous stage, offering wide views over the surrounding territory. Dinner and overnight stay. Technical data: 8 km / +720 m / -950 m.
- Day 4 – One of the most iconic stages of the route: the passage through the legendary Cirque de la Solitude, a wild and spectacular environment. Arrival is planned at Refuge Tighiettu (1,683 m), in the heart of Corsica’s high mountains. Dinner and overnight stay. Technical data: 10 km / +1,655 m / -1,216 m.
- Day 5 – Possibility to climb Monte Cinto (2,706 m) in fast & light style, for those who want an additional challenge. Afterwards, return to Refuge Tighiettu and continue towards Refuge Ciuttulu di i Mori (1,991 m), immersed in a severe and fascinating alpine setting. Dinner and overnight stay. Technical data: 16 km / +1,700 m / -1,340 m, or 7 km / +700 m / -340 m without Monte Cinto.
- Day 6 – A long and immersive traverse leads to Bergerie de Vaccaghja (1,621 m), in the wildest heart of the GR20. This is a stage of endurance and contemplation, where the landscape dominates every step. Dinner and overnight stay. Technical data: 24 km / +920 m / -1,300 m.
- Day 7 – The route continues towards Refuge de l’Onda (1,430 m), crossing rugged alpine environments and landscapes dominated by granite rock. A demanding but deeply evocative day. Dinner and overnight stay. Technical data: 17 km / +1,289 m / -1,454 m.
- Day 8 – The final high-altitude stage descends to Vizzavone (920 m), where the trek comes to an end. From here, take the train back towards Calenzana. Dinner and overnight stay. Technical data: 11 km / +700 m / -1,200 m.
- Day 9 – Breakfast and end of the experience: the slow rhythm of the trek gives way to the return to everyday life, carrying with you the memory of the stages completed, the landscapes crossed and the intensity lived along the way.
Pricing & Logistics
The cost of the tour varies depending on the number of participants and the chosen program.
- The price includes: Mountain Guide service, itinerary planning, logistical organisation and technical equipment.
- The price does not include: food and overnight stays, transfers, personal expenses and any extras.
Life in the bivouac areas is simple, spartan and essential. Each area has everything needed: small shops where food can be bought, refreshment points serving simple meals and equipped pitches with pre-pitched two-person tents. During the trek, everything needed is bought day by day directly on site.
This is the ideal logistical solution, as it allows you to travel light and manage the long, demanding daily stages with greater comfort.
Requirements
- Excellent physical preparation and endurance over several days.
- Experience on alpine and technical terrain.
- Comfort with exposed passages and scrambling.
- Ability to adapt to spartan conditions.
- Technical equipment for alpine trekking.
Season
The GR20 is mainly walked between late June and early October, when high-altitude conditions are more stable and the refuges along the route are open.
Why a Mountain Guide
- Safety management on technical and exposed terrain.
- In-depth knowledge of the GR20 and its variants.
- Support with route choices and pace management.
- Greater safety in case of variable weather or unexpected situations.
- Logistical optimisation on a long and complex route.
Your Experience
If you dream of taking on one of the most iconic and demanding treks in Europe, the GR20 is your challenge. A journey that is not only about walking, but a total experience of effort, beauty and extreme nature.
Are you ready to test yourself on the GR20?
Contact us to experience the GR20 in Corsica with a Mountain Guide and turn this legendary route into an unforgettable adventure.