Lucciana

TREK THE GR20: CORSICA’S TOUGHEST TRAIL

Hiking

What you'll do

Hike the legendary GR20 North in Corsica on a 7-day adventure from Vizzavona to Bonifatu. Cross alpine passes, forested valleys, and glacier lakes, guided through steep climbs and rocky ridgelines to reach the island’s wildest and most spectacular landscapes.

Itinerary

Day 1 – First glimpses of Corsica

Touch down at Bastia Airport or enjoy a scenic ferry ride to the island’s shores—either way, your first view of Corsica’s rugged mountains and sparkling coastline is bound to impress. You’ll meet your host in the early afternoon and transfer to Vizzavona, the official halfway point of the GR20. The two-hour drive winds past turquoise seas and into the heart of Corsica’s mountainous interior, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. Arrive at your forest-fringed guesthouse and settle in before meeting your guides for a briefing on the trek to come. Sleep comes easy tonight, with mountain air and anticipation in abundance.

Day 2 – Trek begins: Vizzavona to Petra Piana

Wake early and feel the buzz of trekkers beginning their journey along the GR20. You’ll follow a northern variant of the trail, widely considered the most challenging section. The day begins with a steady climb past the sparkling Cascade des Anglais, continuing up to the Brèche de Muratellu at 2100m. From here, enjoy sweeping views of Monte Rotondo before tackling a short but technical ridge via Pinzi Corbini. This section is steep and exposed in places, making your guide’s expertise invaluable. In bad weather, a safer valley route leads directly to Petra Piana. After a demanding day, arrive at the remote Petra Piana refuge, sip a drink as the sun dips behind the peaks, and spend the night camping beneath the stars. Time: 8 hrs | Length: 19 km | Elevation gain: 1240m up, 510m down

Day 3 – Petra Piana to the Camputile Plateau

Today’s route is shorter but still adventurous. Depart from Petra Piana and ascend to a high ridge overlooking the refuge. Traverse a lunar-like landscape, with panoramic views unfolding in every direction. Corte—the island’s ancient capital—lies in the distance, with the glistening Mediterranean to the west and the Rotondo massif to the east. From the summit above Lake Capitello, begin your descent to the Manganu refuge on the edge of the Camputile Plateau. The scenery here is stark, remote, and magical. Share dinner inside the rustic refuge before turning in for the night in tents nearby. Time: 5.5 hrs | Length: 8.5 km | Elevation gain: 780m up, 1020m down

Day 4 – Camputile Plateau to Col de Vergio

Cover more ground today as you trek through peaceful beech woods, pastures, and alpine meadows. The trail gradually climbs to the beautiful Lac de Nino at 1743m—a glacial lake surrounded by spongy peat and crisscrossed by sparkling streams. Ponies graze freely in this idyllic highland setting. After a relaxing break by the lake, continue downhill to Col St Pierre and follow a sweeping, horseshoe-shaped path to Castel di Vergio, Corsica’s tiny ski station. Tonight, sleep in dormitories at the refuge and take advantage of access to your extra luggage to refresh your kit for the days ahead. Time: 6.5 hrs | Length: 16 km | Elevation gain: 540m up, 740m down

Day 5 – Col de Vergio to Melarie Valley

Set off through the pine-covered Valdu Niellu forest, following the Golo River upstream. This stretch is longer but more flowing, allowing for a steady pace. Pause midway for a revitalising swim in one of the river’s cool, crystal-clear pools. The trail then climbs steeply out of the valley, leading to a panoramic ridge where the west coast and even distant islands come into view. Pass the dramatic Ciuttolu di i Mori refuge—the highest on the island—nestled between the jagged peaks of Tafanatu and Paglia Orba. After a final push, descend into the remote U Vallone refuge to rest up for the days to come. Time: 6.5 hrs | Length: 14.5 km | Elevation gain: 810m up, 780m down

Day 6 – Melarie Valley to Haut-Asco

Today is a beast—a tough, high-altitude mountain stage through the most dramatic section of the GR20. Begin your climb toward the foothills of Monte Cinto, Corsica’s highest peak at 2706m. The terrain is steep, rugged, and possibly snow-covered, especially early in the season. After several hours, reach Bocca Crucetta and continue along the ridge to Pointe des Éboulis (2607m), the highest point on the trail. Take in breathtaking views before descending sharply past alpine lakes and rocky scree, finally reaching the ski station at Haut-Asco. Celebrate the day’s achievement with a drink and a warm meal, then settle into the dormitory. Your extra luggage is available again here for a well-earned refresh. Time: 8 hrs | Length: 9 km | Elevation gain: 1260m up, 1230m down

Day 7 – The final push: Haut-Asco to Bonifatu

One final, spectacular stage remains. Climb from Asco-Stagnu to Bocca di Stagnu at the foot of Muvrella (2150m), where views of the sea signal your journey’s approaching end. At Muvrella Lake, take in the sweeping vista over the Bay of Calvi—one of the GR20’s most breathtaking spots. Cross the iconic Spasimata footbridge and begin your last descent along the Mare e Monti trail. The terrain is steep and technical in places, but spirits are high as Bonifatu comes into view. From here, your host will transfer you to Calvi, where you’ll trade hiking boots for hotel comforts. Celebrate your incredible accomplishment with dinner in town. Time: 7 hrs | Length: 11 km | Elevation gain: 690m up, 1600m down

Day 8 – Farewell, Corsica

After breakfast, your adventure draws to a close. Your host will transfer you back to Bastia Airport, aiming to arrive around midday for flights departing from 14:00 onwards. If you’re staying on in Corsica, consider exploring the beautiful coastline around Calvi, or venture north to the wild cliffs of Cap Corse. Either way, you leave with stories, strength, and a deep connection to the wild heart of the Mediterranean.

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

100% Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Flexible Changes

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

100% Guaranteed Departures: Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.
Flexible Changes: Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.
Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance: Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

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What's included

Accident insurance

Medical and luggage insurance

Travel cancellation insurance

Hiking Guide

1 night in a traditional guesthouse in Vizzavona before the trek begins

3 nights camping near mountain refuges along the GR20

2 nights in shared dormitories inside mountain refuges

1 night in a locally owned hotel in Calvi to celebrate the journey’s end

Group transfer from Bastia Airport on Day 1

Return transfer to Bastia Airport on Day 8

Post-trek transfer from Bonifatu to Calvi

Your main luggage will be accessible on the evenings of Day 4 and Day 6

All meals

Flight

Visa (if applicable)

Tips for leaders and drivers

Personal equipment (look at the recommended kit list)

Expenditure of personal nature

Accomodations

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Vizzavona – First Night

You'll spend your first night in Vizzavona, the official halfway point of the GR20, at the Monte d'Oro – a charming traditional hotel and guesthouse nestled in the forest just off the GR20 route. Accommodation: Small dorm rooms (up to 4 people) Facilities: Private shower and toilet in each room Atmosphere: Popular bar and restaurant for trekkers

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Along the GR20 – Nights 2 to 6

You’ll stay in a mix of dormitories and tents at mountain refuges along the northern section of the GR20, all managed by the Parc Naturel Régional de Corse. Nights in dorms: 2 (Castel di Vergio & Haut-Asco) Nights camping: 3 (Petra Piana, Manganu & U Vallone) Facilities vary by refuge: Some have hot showers, flushing toilets, and charging points Others only offer cold showers, composting toilets, and limited electricity A small grocery shop is often available Sleeping arrangements: Inside refuges: Mattresses provided in dorms (26–32 beds) Outside: Twin-share expedition tents and mattresses included Bring your own 3-season sleeping bag and travel pillow These rustic mountain huts are part of the GR20's unique charm – remote, basic, and a big part of the adventure.

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Calvi – Final Night

Your last night is spent at a comfortable hotel in Calvi, a coastal town on Corsica’s west coast – the perfect place to relax after the trek. Rooms: Twin-share with ensuite bathroom Setting: Close to the seafront with a shaded garden terrace Note: Accommodation may vary depending on availability but will be of similar standard

Meeting point

Frequently asked questions

Departures

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