Conquer the mythical GR20 route, the most difficult trek in Europe. Let Julie, an experienced mountain leader, guide you through the stunning island of Corsica.
10 Days
Jun - Oct
Very high
Advanced
The GR20 is world famous, as it is one of the most difficult hikes on Earth. But, it is also one of the most beautiful ones. The sceneries here are stunning. We’ll be able to see mesmerizing lakes with pristine waters. And we’ll ascend summits of over 2,000 meters, where we’ll get the best views of the sea, from the north, west, and east, at times!
We’ll take the North to South route, a historical path that will ensure we uncover all the beauty of this place. Throughout the route we’ll encounter different types of terrain, with very steep slopes, slabs and rocky ascents.
The average elevations we’ll hike through range from 1,500 meters to 3,000 meters. And we’ll be hiking around 7h30 to 10 hours. This does not include resting time and the breaks we’ll take for picnics. We’ll take both in stunning spots so we can recover our energy and continue on our journey.
Some of the highlights of this trip are:
Crossing the Cirque de Bonifatu and the Bavella needles
The hypnotizing views of the Capitello and the Melo lakes
Trekking through mountain passes that stand over 2,000 meters
Enjoying Camputile and the sheepfolds of Vaccaghja and U Cuscionu
Reaching the summit of Alcudina (2,134m), the highest peak in the south of Corsica
Due to the intense physical demand of this route, you’ll need an excellent fitness level. This is not a trek for anybody, and you need to be prepared for such challenge. But the reward you’ll get, will be the magnificent places you’ll reach!
So if you are up for this challenge, send me a request. Let me guide you through this amazing place in Corsica.
We’ll meet at 8:00 in Calvi. Then we’ll trek to the refuge of Ortu di Piobbu (1560m).
On this day we’ll trek through the ridgend between Ladroncellu and the Avartoli Pass. Due to its location the Avartoli Pass is one of the most beautiful passages of the trek. Then, we’ll descend to Carrozzu. And then enter into the circus of Bonifatu. After that we’ll rise by the slabs of Spasimata. Finally we’ll descend towards the Ascu Stagnu station, where you’ll find your bag.
We can take the normal route, where we’ll hike through mesmerizing slabs and a stunning silver lake. Also we can take the route by the lakes of Ascu, where we’ll see small wild lakes in the middle of the screes.
First we’ll descend to the sheepfolds of U Vallone. Then we’ll cross a charming forest where we’ll be able to see the Corsican Matterhorn. After that we will go up a steep path in the rocks towards Bocca di Foggiale. And, only 20 minutes later we’ll reach the highest refuge, Ciottulu di Mori. Finally, we’ll take a nice lunch break after which we’ll descend to the Golu basins where you’ll find your bags.
We’ll leave early morning to hike through the enchanting forest of Valdu Niellu. And we’ll cross the plateau of Capitellu, where you’ll get the best views of the Melu and Capitellu lakes. Finally we’ll spend the night at the Petra Piana shelter.
Our day will begin by a beautiful stage crest on the top of the sheepfolds of the Onda. Then we’ll cross the massif of Monte d’Oru. After that, a hard descent through a waterfall awaits. Finally we’ll reach the Vizzavona pass.
Day 7 begins with a trek through Pinzi Curbini di Uriente a more mountainous and wild path. Or, we can walk through the forest, where we’ll pass lovely torrents and sheepfolds. It will all depend on the weather condition. Finally we’ll climb Col de Verde and reach the Refuge of Prati.
On this day we’ll ascend Punta Della Cappella. Then dip into the basins of the pateau of Cuscinou, where we’ll see many animals in the wild, including horses, pigs and goats. Finally, we’ll end the day either camping or at a refuge.
We’ll climb the Monte Alcudina (2,134m). Then we’ll descend to the sheepfolds of Asinau and cross Bavella. Finally we’ll spend the night in a gite.
Our last day will begin early, crossing the southern massif of the Bavella through the refuge of Paliri. Finally we’ll reach the final stage of the GR20. And there will be a transfer to the Figari or Ajaccio airport waiting for you.
More info
We recommend you bring a backpack for the day, picnic + 2 liters of water minimum, sun block, a rain and a warm jacket. Your bag will be transferred every 2 days. For overnight stays bring a long sleeve T-shirt, a pair of pants, a spare of underwear.
Meeting point
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5.0
(1)
Mountain Guide
I am a mountain leader based in Quenza, Corsica. I am state-certified and offer hiking and snowshoeing tours around this beautiful island. And for your added safety, I'm also a firefighter and lifeguard. I enjoy the feeling of freedom I get when in the mountains and also the humbleness that they require. The mountain is wonderful when shared!
Marc
5
Julien is an outstanding guide who has a true passion for mountains I will gladly recommend him Hike was very challenging but well worth the effort. A true family memory for my daughter and I. A little difficult communication with Explore Share arranging the trip
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