Lucciana

TREK THE GR20: CORSICA’S TOUGHEST TRAIL

Hiking

What you'll do

Embark on one of Europe’s most legendary and demanding treks — the GR20 North, cutting through the wild mountains of Corsica from Vizzavona to Calvi. Over eight intense days, you’ll traverse rugged ridgelines, steep ascents, and rocky passes that test both your endurance and mountain skills. This route is as rewarding as it is challenging: each day brings new terrain — exposed scrambles, technical sections, and remote alpine valleys where nature reigns supreme.Nights are spent in refuges and preset tents, with simple comforts and hearty local meals, or in small mountain hotels offering a well-earned rest. Expect no Wi-Fi or phone signal — just the sound of the wind, the stars above, and the satisfaction of completing one of the toughest treks in Europe. The GR20 North is for experienced trekkers ready to push their limits and embrace the raw, untamed beauty of Corsica’s high mountains — an adventure that challenges you at every step and rewards you beyond measure.

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 will impress. We recommend arriving by 1 PM. You’ll meet your guide 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 hotel and settle in before the trek briefing. Sleep comes easily 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, considered the most challenging section. The day begins with a steady climb past the Cascade des Anglais, continuing up to the Brèche de Muratellu at 2100 m (6890 ft). From here, enjoy sweeping views of Monte Rotondo before tackling a short but technical ridge via Pinzi Corbini. In bad weather, a safer valley route leads directly to Petra Piana. After a demanding day, arrive at the refuge, sip a drink as the sun dips behind the peaks, and spend the night camping beneath the stars. Distance: 15 km (9.3 mi) | Elevation gain: +1780 m (+5840 ft) | Elevation loss: −1067 m (−3500 ft) | Time: 8 h 35 min

Day 3 – Petra Piana to the Camputile Plateau

Depart 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, framed by the Mediterranean to the west and the Rotondo massif to the east. From the summit above Lake Capitello, begin your descent to Refuge du Manganu, perched on the edge of the Campotile Plateau. The scenery is stark, remote, and unforgettable. Share dinner inside the rustic refuge before turning in for the night. Distance: 8.7 km (5.4 mi) | Elevation gain: +581 m (+1906 ft) | Elevation loss: −818 m (−2684 ft) | Time: 4 h

Day 4 – Camputile Plateau to Col de Vergio

Cover more ground today as you trek through peaceful beech woods, alpine pastures, and rolling meadows. The trail climbs gradually to Lac de Nino at 1743 m (5718 ft) — a glacial lake surrounded by peat meadows and sparkling streams where wild ponies often graze. After a break by the lake, continue downhill to Col St Pierre and follow a horseshoe-shaped path to Castel di Vergio, Corsica’s tiny ski station. Sleep in a basic but comfortable hotel tonight. Distance: 16 km (9.9 mi) | Elevation gain: +439 m (+1440 ft) | Elevation loss: −605 m (−1985 ft) | Time: 5 h

Day 5 – Col de Vergio to Refuge Tighiettu

Set off through the Valdu Niellu pine forest, following the Golo River upstream. The terrain is steady and flowing, ideal for finding your rhythm. Take a refreshing break in one of the crystal-clear pools before climbing toward the ridge that reveals Corsica’s dramatic western peaks. Pass the striking Ciuttolu di i Mori Refuge, the highest on the island, nestled beneath the jagged summits of Paglia Orba and Tafunatu. Finally, reach Refuge Tighiettu, where you can unwind and enjoy a hearty dinner. Distance: 13.7 km (8.5 mi) | Elevation gain: +761 m (+2497 ft) | Elevation loss: −726 m (−2382 ft) | Time: 5 h 25 mi

Day 6 – Refuge Tighiettu to Haut-Asco

Today you’ll walk through one of the GR20’s most dramatic sections. Begin your climb toward Monte Cinto, Corsica’s highest peak at 2706 m (8880 ft). The trail is steep, rocky, and occasionally snow-covered early in the season. Reach Bocca Crucetta, continue along the ridge to Pointe des Éboulis (2607 m / 8550 ft), then descend past alpine lakes and scree slopes to the ski station at Haut-Asco. Celebrate your day’s achievement with a hot meal and well-earned rest. Distance: 9.8 km (6.1 mi) | Elevation gain: +1168 m (+3832 ft) | Elevation loss: −1196 m (−3924 ft) | Time: 5 h 50 min

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 (2150 m / 7050 ft), where views of the sea mark your journey’s approaching end. Take in the vast panorama over the Bay of Calvi before crossing the famous Spasimata footbridge and starting your descent on the Mare e Monti trail. From here, transfer to Calvi, where hiking boots give way to sea breezes, local wine, and celebration. Distance: 11 km (6.8 mi) | Elevation gain: +665 m (+2,182 ft) | Elevation loss: −1,558 m (−5,112 ft) | Time: 5 h 20 min

Day 8 – Farewell, Corsica

After breakfast, your Corsican adventure comes to a close. You’ll transfer back to Bastia Airport (we recommend booking flights after 3 PM). If you’re extending your stay, consider exploring Calvi’s coastline or venturing north to the wild cliffs of Cap Corse. Either way, you leave with stories, strength, and a deep connection to the wild heart of Corsica.

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

All breakfast

Dinners

Group transfer from Bastia Airport on Day 1

Return transfer to Bastia Airport on Day 8

Post-trek transfer from Bonifatu to Calvi

Flight

Visa (if applicable)

Lunches

Snacks and drinks

Tips for leaders and drivers

Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”

Personal equipment (look at the recommended kit list)

Expenditure of personal nature

Drinks such as wine, beer or exclusive apple juice and other luxuries

Accomodations

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Hostel in Vizzavona - Day 1

A cozy mountain hostel surrounded by pine forests in the heart of Corsica. Expect a warm atmosphere, hearty local meals, and simple yet comfortable rooms—ideal for a restful night before tackling the trail.

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Pietra Piana Refuge (Dorm or preset tents) - Day 2

A high-mountain refuge offering shared dormitories or pre-set tents. Facilities are basic but the location—perched above the clouds—makes it one of the most scenic and authentic GR20 stops.

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Refuge du Manganu (Dorm or preset tents) - Day 3

A remote refuge by a crystal-clear mountain lake. Accommodation is rustic, with shared dorms or tents, and limited amenities—perfect for a full immersion in the wild landscape.

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Hotel Col de Vergio - Day 4

An alpine-style hotel located at the island’s highest mountain pass. Shared dormitories and hearty meals make it a comfortable yet simple stopover along the GR20.

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Refuge Tighiettu (Dorm or preset tents) - Day 5

A traditional stone refuge nestled deep in the mountains. Facilities are basic but welcoming, with dorms or tents available and a family-run kitchen serving hot, homemade food.

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Hotel Le Chalet - Day 6

A comfortable mountain hotel offering shared dorms. A great spot to unwind with hearty Corsican cuisine and mountain views before continuing your journey.

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Hotel Belvedere Calvi - Day 7

A comfortable seaside hotel in Calvi, perfect for relaxing after completing the GR20. Rooms feature modern amenities, and the terrace offers sweeping views of the bay and surrounding hills.

Guides

Cecilia

Cecilia is an International Mountain Leader. She has been working as a trekking guide in Scotland and the Alps, where she lives, for almost ten years. She has extensive personal experience ranging from the European mountains to the Andes and the Himalayas.