GR20 Corsica Trek
8 Days 7 Nights
Corsica’s Most Rugged and Iconic Mountain Traverse From Calenzana to Vizzavona
Price:2255 USD/ person
This 8-day trek covers the entire northern section of the legendary GR20, widely regarded as the most technical and demanding part of the trail. From the forests above Calvi to the historic mountain pass of Vizzavona, the route crosses jagged ridgelines, deep glacial cirques, and dramatic high-alpine terrain.
The northern GR20 is defined by steep ascents, exposed rock, granite slabs, and sections equipped with chains. Days are physically demanding and mentally engaging, rewarding strong hikers with breathtaking views over Corsica’s highest peaks, remote valleys, and — on clear days — the Mediterranean Sea.
This itinerary is ideal for experienced mountain trekkers seeking a raw, authentic GR20 experience in a focused timeframe.
Trip Overview
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Difficulty: ★★★★★ (5 / 5) — Very 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 most technical and dramatic section of the GR20
Crosses Corsica’s highest and wildest mountain terrain
Iconic landscapes: cirques, ridges, granite slabs, and alpine lakes
Optional ascents of legendary peaks such as Monte Cintu and Monte Ritondu
Authentic nights in remote mountain refuges and bivouacs
A powerful finish at Vizzavona, marking the end of the GR20 North
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
-
We begin the GR20 in Calenzana, the official starting point of the trail. The path climbs steadily through Mediterranean scrub and pine forest before emerging onto open ridgelines with sweeping views over the Gulf of Calvi.
A challenging but rewarding first day that sets the tone for the northern GR20.
Hiking time: ~5–6 hours
Overnight: Mountain refuge or equipped bivouac
Meals: Dinner -
A spectacular alpine day crossing rugged ridges and rocky terrain. The trail traverses exposed sections with dramatic views over deep valleys before descending toward the Spasimata Gorge.
We finish the day at Carozzu Refuge, perched above turquoise pools where a refreshing swim may be possible.
Hiking time: ~6–7 hours
Overnight: Mountain refuge or bivouac
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
A technical and physically demanding stage. We climb steep granite slabs through the Spasimata cirque, pass near Lake Muvrella, and continue across high ridges overlooking the Ascu Valley.
Optional detours allow exploration of old GR20 variants and dramatic cirques before descending to Ascu Stagnu.
Hiking time: ~7–8 hours
Overnight: Gîte
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
One of the most demanding days of the trek. We cross the Monte Cintu massif, navigating steep, rocky terrain and high mountain ridges.
Optional ascent of Monte Cintu (2,706 m) — the highest peak in Corsica — for those with strong legs and stable weather. A long descent leads to Tighjettu Refuge or nearby bergeries.
Hiking time: ~7–8 hours
Overnight: Refuge or bivouac
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
A slightly shorter day allows recovery after the intensity of previous stages. We follow forest paths before climbing to Bocca Foggiale, arriving at Ciottulu, the highest refuge on the GR20.
Optional ascent of Paglia Orba (2,525 m) offers stunning sunset views over the mountains and the sea.
Hiking time: ~4–5 hours (longer with summit option)
Overnight: Refuge or bivouac
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
We descend along the Golo River, then climb back into high alpine terrain. The route passes through vast open landscapes and ascends toward Bocca alle Porte, with views over the iconic Lakes Melu and Capitellu.
Depending on conditions, we overnight near Manganu or Petra Piana.
Hiking time: ~6–7 hours
Overnight: Refuge or bivouac
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
A wild and beautiful stage through remote mountain valleys. Optional ascent of Monte Ritondu (2,622 m) provides panoramic views across Corsica, Sardinia, and mainland Italy on clear days.
We descend toward the welcoming Bergeries de l’Onda, surrounded by forest and streams.
Hiking time: ~6–7 hours
Overnight: Bergeries or bivouac
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
The final day of the GR20 North. We cross the Monte d’Oru massif, with optional summit ascent, before descending through forest paths and waterfalls, including the famous Cascade des Anglais.
Arrival in Vizzavona marks the end of the northern GR20 — and a major mountain achievement.
Hiking time: ~5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast
Upcoming departure dates
| Departure | Finish |
|---|---|
| 06 Jun 2026 | 13 Jun 2026 |
| 20 Jun 2026 | 27 Jun 2026 |
| 04 Jul 2026 | 11 Jul 2026 |
| 18 Jul 2026 | 25 Jul 2026 |
| 01 Aug 2026 | 08 Aug 2026 |
| 15 Aug 2026 | 22 Aug 2026 |
| 29 Aug 2026 | 05 Sep 2026 |
| 05 Sep 2026 | 12 Sep 2026 |
| 12 Sep 2026 | 19 Sep 2026 |