GR20 Corsica Trek
The GR20 is widely regarded as Europe’s most demanding long-distance trek, stretching 180 km across Corsica’s rugged spine. From the northern forests of Bonifatu to the southern village of Conca, the trail traverses jagged peaks, alpine ridges, turquoise mountain lakes, and remote villages.
This 14-day adventure combines dramatic landscapes, Corsican culture, and physical challenge. Hikers pass through alpine ridges, rock-strewn paths, and traditional gîtes, experiencing the full intensity and beauty of Corsica’s mountains. Sunrise over granite summits and quiet evenings under a starlit sky make this trek a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
14 Days / 13 Nights
The Mythical Mountain Trail of Corsica
Price: 5090 AUD / person
Trip Overview
Duration: 14 Days / 13 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: 180 km with over 10,000 m of cumulative ascent and descent; 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
Europe’s toughest and most iconic long-distance trek
Northern section: highly technical, full of granite spires and chains
Southern section: slightly more forgiving, yet still challenging mountain terrain
Panoramic alpine ridges, glacial lakes, and dramatic granite peaks
Corsican local culture and cuisine along the route
Gîte accommodations and luggage transfers provide comfort in a rugged setting
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
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Meet at Calvi train station or airport at 5 PM. Transfer to Bonifatu (25 min) and settle into the gîte. Orientation on the trek, gear check, and preparation of backpacks. Dinner at the Auberge de Bonifatu.
Overnight: Gîte | Meals: Dinner -
Trek through forest trails to Refuge de Carozzu, then traverse granite slabs of the Spasimata cirque to Lac de la Muvrella. Optional climb to Punta Muvrella (2148 m) for breathtaking views. Descend to Ascu Stagnu for the night.
Hiking time: 6 h | Elevation: +1400 m / -650 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Gîte -
Cross the Monte Cintu massif via the Pointe des Eboulis (2607 m). Optional ascent of Monte Cintu (2706 m) – the highest peak in Corsica (+2 h). Descend along ridge to Tighjettu or Bergeries de Vallone. Swim possible in river nearby.
Hiking time: 8 h | Elevation: +1200 m / -1200 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Bivouac / Tent -
Begin with an easy forest trail, then ascend Bocca Foggiale (2000 m). Optional climb of Paglia Orba (2525 m), one of Corsica’s most beautiful peaks. Afternoon: follow Golu river pools with swimming opportunities, then descend to Verghju or Ciottulu.
Hiking time: 6 h | Elevation: +700 m / -650 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Gîte / Refuge -
Forest trails and ridge walks, optional Monte Tozzu climb (2007 m). Discover Lac de Ninu and its pozzines. Relax in natural pools along Tavignanu river.
Hiking time: 5.5 h | Elevation: +650 m / -200 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Bivouac -
Cross Camputile plateau, ascend Bocca a e Porte (2225 m), optional Punta a e Porte (2313 m). Enjoy panoramic views over lakes Capitellu and Melu. Descend to Gruttelle or Petra Piana.
Hiking time: 6 h | Elevation: +800 m / -1050 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Bivouac -
Ascend Rinosu valley and Cirque des Cascades, discover lakes du Rinosu. Ridge walk via Bocca Muzzella (2206 m) to Bergeries de l’Onda. Swimming possible near the huts.
Hiking time: 7 h | Elevation: +1200 m / -1170 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Refuge -
Traverse Monte d’Oru massif. Optional ascent of Monte d’Oru (2389 m). Descend along Agnone river and Cascades des Anglais. End of GR20 North section.
Hiking time: 6 h | Elevation: +750 m / -1000 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Gîte -
Two options:
Option 1: Ridge route via Pinzi Curbini, optional Punta di l’Uriente (2112 m) for stunning views over eastern Corsica and Italy.
Option 2: Classic GR20 forest path with scenic viewpoints.
Hiking time: 5.5 h | Elevation: +700–1100 m / -300–700 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Gîte
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Option 1: Ascend Monte Renosu (2352 m), traverse Urlandinu ridge and Pozzi valley.
Option 2: Scenic forest GR20 route.
Hiking time: 6–7 h | Elevation: +450–900 m / -750–1200 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Gîte -
Ascend Bocca d’Oru, ridge traverse, optional Punta Capella (2041 m) and Punta Furmicula (1981 m). Stunning panoramic views over the Corsican mountains and the sea.
Hiking time: 7 h | Elevation: +1300 m / -850 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Refuge / Tent -
Ridge walk followed by forest trails through plateau du Cuscione with pozzines and scenic landscapes.
Hiking time: 5 h | Elevation: +300 m / -550 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Gîte / Bivouac -
Optional Monte Alcudina (2134 m) ascent for 360° panoramic views over Corsica and Sardinia. Ridge traverse to Asinau and Bavella.
Hiking time: 7 h | Elevation: +1150 m / -1400 m
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Gîte -
Final day: gentle forest path to Paliri refuge, descend through maquis to the coast. Transfer to Santa Lucia or Porto-Vecchio to conclude the trek.
Hiking time: 7 h | Elevation: +450 m / -1400 m
Meals: Breakfast | Overnight: End of Trek
Upcoming departure dates
| Departure | Finish |
|---|---|
| 30 May 2026 | 12 Jun 2026 |
| 13 Jun 2026 | 26 Jun 2026 |
| 27 Jun 2026 | 10 Jul 2026 |
| 11 Jul 2026 | 24 Jul 2026 |
| 25 Jul 2026 | 07 Aug 2026 |
| 08 Aug 2026 | 21 Aug 2026 |
| 22 Aug 2026 | 04 Sep 2026 |
| 29 Aug 2026 | 11 Sep 2026 |
| 05 Sep 2026 | 18 Sep 2026 |
| 12 Sep 2026 | 25 Sep 2026 |
| 19 Sep 2026 | 02 Oct 2026 |