GR20 Corsica Trek
The GR20 Nord Authentique is a 10-day, 9-night alpine adventure along the most dramatic and technical section of the GR20. This northern route follows the original pioneer trail, taking in stunning ridges, classic passes, and an astonishing nine peaks over 2,000 m, including Monte Cintu (2,706 m) — the highest summit in Corsica — and the majestic Paglia Orba (2,525 m).
This trek is designed for very fit and experienced hikers who want the purest expression of the GR20’s wild beauty — from exposed granite crests and high mountain lakes to deep forests and panoramic sea views. You’ll stay in a mix of gîtes, refuges, and equipped bivouacs, with luggage support and local guides introducing the region’s rich culture and mountain lore.
10 Days / 9 Nights
The True Alpine Classic of the GR20
Price:2410 USD/ person
Trip Overview
Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
Difficulty: ★★★★⭑ (4.5 / 5) – Extremely challenging
Key Difficulty Factors:
Technical Terrain: Rocky, uneven paths, steep ascents/descents, scree, and sections with chains and ladders, especially in the northern section.
Physical Demands: 6–8 hours of hiking daily carrying a weighted pack.
Mental Fortitude: Navigating loose rocks, landslides, strong winds, and sudden storms requires focus and adaptability.
Weather: Mountain conditions can change rapidly, with rain, fog, or even snow possible at higher altitudes.
Logistics: Basic mountain huts and campsites may be crowded, and some remote gîtes are more rustic.
Accommodation: Mountain huts
Season: July – October
The GR20 demands excellent physical fitness, mental resilience, and prior mountain trekking experience.
What Makes This Trek Special
The northern GR20 classic — the most rugged and alpine section of the entire route.
Nine summits over 2,000 m including Monte Cintu, Paglia Orba, Monte Ritondu, and Monte d’Oru.
Historic trail alignments and panoramic ridges rarely seen on shorter itineraries.
Dramatic granite landscapes, hidden lakes, and forested valleys.
Guided experience with regional culinary highlights and local insights.
Camping Style
This trek primarily uses gîtes and mountain huts along the GR20 route. Most huts offer beds, blankets, and hot showers, while some more remote shelters provide basic dormitory-style sleeping arrangements with shared facilities. Nights can be cold, especially at higher altitudes, so hikers should bring warm sleeping layers. Luggage is transported between huts, allowing you to hike with a light daypack containing personal items and essentials for the day.
Food
Breakfasts, dinners, and gourmet trail picnics are provided daily. Meals highlight local Corsican ingredients, including cured meats, cheeses, fresh bread, and seasonal produce. Food is hearty and designed to restore energy after long hiking days. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated if requested in advance. Huts may have limited snacks or drinks available for purchase.
Facilities
Gîtes and huts vary in amenities. Most offer hot showers, toilets, and simple indoor spaces, while some high-mountain shelters have more basic facilities, often without running water or electricity. Power outlets and mobile signal are limited, and internet is usually unavailable on the trail. Be prepared for rustic conditions in remote sections.
Trail Conditions
The GR20 covers varied and rugged terrain:
Rocky ridges, scree slopes, steep ascents and descents
Narrow paths and alpine passes with chains and ladders
Potential hazards like loose rocks, landslides, or slippery surfaces after rain
Hiking poles and sturdy boots are highly recommended. Trails in the northern section are more technical and exposed, while the southern section features slightly gentler gradients, though still challenging.
Experience Level
High. This trek is suitable only for experienced and physically fit hikers. Participants should be comfortable with:
Multi-day trekking at altitude
Long days (6–8 hours) carrying a weighted pack
Technical sections with exposure to heights
Adapting to variable mountain conditions
No technical climbing skills are required, but a solid background in alpine hiking is essential.
Weather & Environment
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Expect rapid changes: cold mornings, warm afternoons, rain, fog, or even snow at higher altitudes. Temperatures vary significantly between night and day, and strong winds can occur along ridges. Layered clothing and waterproof gear are essential.
Pack Weight
A light daypack is recommended, containing personal essentials, water, snacks, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. Shared luggage is transported between huts, minimizing load while hiking. Carry only what you need for the day to stay agile on technical terrain.
Respect for Nature
The GR20 passes through protected natural areas. Hikers are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles:
Carry out all waste and litter
Respect flora and fauna
Stay on marked trails
Follow local guidelines and ranger instructions
This ensures the trail remains pristine for future adventurers and protects the unique Corsican ecosystem.
What’s Included
- ✔ Experienced local mountain guide
- ✔ Support team & luggage transport
- ✔ Accommodation in tents or Hut as per itinerary
- ✔ All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch packed, Dinner)
- ✔ Showers as per itinerary
- ✔ Airport transfer
- ✔ Summit guidance
- ✔ Trekking permits & local fees
What’s Not Included
- ✕ International flights + France to Corsica
- ✕ Travel insurance (mandatory)
- ✕ Personal trekking gear
- ✕ Drinks & personal snacks
- ✕ Tips for guides & team (optional)
- ✕ Personal expenses in Corsica
- ✕ Any service not specifically listed in the itinerary
Trip Itinerary
-
Meet at Calvi train station or airport in the early evening. Transfer to the Bonifatu gîte for trek briefing, gear check, and dinner.
Overnight: Gîte | Meals: Dinner -
A classic first stage through maquis and pine forest to the old Ortu di u Piobbu refuge site followed by a ridge section with views over the Gulf of Calvi.
Hiking Time: ~4.5 h | Elevation: +1,080 m
Overnight: Tent / Refuge | Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner -
Climb off-trail to Monte Curona (2,144 m) and Capu Ladroncellu (2,145 m) for spectacular sea and ridge views, then join the GR20 at the Avartoli ridges and descend to Carozzu.
Hiking Time: ~6 h | Elevation: +850 m / –1,100 m
Overnight: Tent / Refuge | Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner -
Ascend granite slabs of the Spasimata cirque to Lake Muvrella. Detour off current GR20 to explore old ridge trails, including optional Punta Culaghja (2,034 m).
Hiking Time: ~8 h | Elevation: +1,250 m / –1,100 m
Overnight: Gîte | Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner -
Traverse the Monte Cintu massif via the Pointe des Eboulis (2,607 m) and enjoy views of alpine lakes. Optional summit of Monte Cintu (2,706 m). Descend to Vallone.
Hiking Time: ~8 h | Elevation: +1,200 m / –1,200 m
Overnight: Bivouac | Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner -
Climb through forest to Bocca Foggiale (2,000 m), then reach Refuge Ciottulu, the highest refuge on the GR20. Optional afternoon ascent of Paglia Orba (2,525 m).
Hiking Time: ~3–3.5 h | Elevation: +600 m
Overnight: Refuge / Bivouac | Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner -
Descend alongside the Golu River, then follow forest and ridge paths to Bocca a Reta. Optional Monte Tozzu (2,007 m)and visit the beautiful Lac de Ninu.
Hiking Time: ~6.5 h | Elevation: +450 m / –800 m
Overnight: Bivouac | Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner -
Plateau crossing and ascent to Bocca alle Porte (2,225 m) overlooking lakes Capitellu and Melu. Optional Punta alle Porte (2,313 m) and traverse to Refuge de Petra Piana.
Hiking Time: ~6.5 h | Elevation: +800 m / –550 m
Overnight: Bivouac | Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner -
Morning ascent of Monte Ritondu (2,622 m) — the highest summit of Corsica’s second massif — then follow the GR20 or choose the Pinzi Curbini ridge variant to the lush Bergeries de l’Onda.
Hiking Time: ~5–5.5 h | Elevation: +1,000 m / –450 m
Overnight: Bivouac | Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner -
Final stage of the northern classic: climb to Bocca Muratellu, optional ascent of Monte d’Oru (2,389 m), then descend past the Cascades des Anglais to the end point in Vizzavona. Transfer or logistics options end the trek.
Hiking Time: ~6 h (+2 h optional) | Elevation: +800 m / –1,050 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Upcoming departure dates
| Departure | Finish |
|---|---|
| 12 Jun 2026 | 21 Jun 2026 |
| 10 Jul 2026 | 19 Jul 2026 |
| 07 Aug 2026 | 16 Aug 2026 |
| 04 Sep 2026 | 13 Sep 2026 |