The GR20 traverses the island diagonally following the high granite barrier of mountains that form the natural boundary between the two regions of Corsica. The trail offers some fantastic scenery and an insight into the working mountain community. The trail winds through some incredulous mountain terrain, over high ridges, down deep chasms and bare granite slopes. There are continuous steep ascents and descents, the ambiance is strictly alpine. This is an exceptional, long distance walk, reputed as the best and most challenging in Europe.

Day 1
Vizzavona, is a large forest with a small railway station in the middle. You can settle into your accommodation and enjoy a stroll in the woods, or relax at the nearby rock pools at the Cascade des Anglais.

Day 2
A lead in path takes you near to the hamlet of Canaglia. You walk alongside a mountain torrent, a little shepherds cabin and grassy clearing make for a perfect rest stop. You continue up the valley enjoying the stunning views. Night camping at Petra Piana.
20km, 8h00, +1482m, -782m.

Day 3
From Petra Piana a short uphill section takes you to the high ridge above the refuge. The trail is rocky, almost lunar in ambiance. You take a mountain pass and continue on the high route. The views are spectacular, with Corte, the island’s historic capital in the distance and a series of wonderful glacier lakes to discover. Night camping.
8km, 6h30, +700m, -950m.

Day 4
Discover the Lac de Nino, a glacial lake surrounded by spongy peat with runnels of water and wells. The trail follows a high ridge with magnificent views and the occasional blue glint of the beckoning sea. Gite or hotel.
13km, 5h00, +600m, -700m.

Day 5
Ascent in the Golo Valley. A mountain ridge walk, offering spectacular views of the West coast, takes you to Ciuttolu i Mori refuge (2000m), the highest in Corsica. Descent via the Col de Foggiale to Vallone. Camping.
11km, 5h30, +950m, -980m.

Day 6
Discover the mythical Cirque de la Solitude. The geology, the closeness of the rocks and often billowing mist make this a dramatic and impressive section Gite or hotel.
8km, 6h00, +1050m, -1100m.

Day 7
Ascent to Bocca Di Stagnu at the foot of the Muvrella (2150m). The presence of the sea signals the end of the GR20. Without doubt one of the most spectacular parts of the trail. Descent through Bonifatu cirque.
9km, 6h30, +730m, -1560m.

Start
At your accommodation in Vizzavona. The village can be accessed by train or bus by Ajaccio, Calvi and Bastia, ticket fare starting at €8.
End
Around 5.30 pm in Calvi, after your last transfer from Bonifatu.
How to get there
Ajaccio ferry terminal or airport. If you're planning to arrive in Bastia or Calvi, the landing should be scheduled early enough so you can catch the bus or train.
Accommodation
Refuge, gite in small communal dormitories, camping in two men tents in the vicinity of shepherds' cabins. If you are doing the GR South and North we offer a night on half board at Vizzavona in the middle of the trek. Breakfasts and evening meals are served in the accommodations. Picnics are usually a pre-cooked pasta/rice/lentil salad, with extra bread, cheese, meat and fruit.
Number of people
From 2
Level of difficulty
Extremely tough. Although this trek has become more accessible over the last few years. It is still the toughest long distance path in Europe. The GR20 is for walkers who are physically fit and have mountain experience. The paths are very stony with numerous steep uphill sections and descents that are particularly rough under foot. You need to be sure footed and have good endurance. The effective walking time is an indication of how long it will take before you add on the breaks. Walking speed varies enormously, the timings do not take into account stops en route, some days are particularly strenuous.
Guide
Self guided walk.
Carrying
You will need to carry a back pack that will weigh a minimum of 13 kilos with a capacity of 35-50 litres. You will be carrying your personal gear, storm gear, sleeping bag, 2 litres of water and picnic. You will have access to your main luggage where possible (on days 1,4 and 6)
Price includes
Accommodation on a full board basis, internal transfers, travel dossier with maps and route notes.
Price does not include
Holiday insurance, drinks, lunch on day 1, additional activities, transfers to Vizzavona on day 1 and travel to Corsica.

Download fact sheet

To consult the Facts sheets, please click here:

•   Gr_North_self_guided.pdf (425.5K)