GR20 Corsica

Distance: 180 km
Duration: 15 - 16 days
Country:
The GR20 trek across Corsica is a rugged journey that takes you through diverse landscapes, from windswept highlands to dense forests. Known as one of Europe's toughest treks, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and physical challenge, making each step a rewarding experience.

Trekking GR20 Corsica

Distances

  • 15 - 16 days, 180 km, +10,000 m, 2,205 m high point
  • daily: 6 - 8 hours, 10 - 15 km, +600 - 800 m gain

Route

  • through hike
  • starting in Calenzana
  • ending in Conca

Pictures from trekking GR20 Corsica

GR20 Corsica itinerary

Trekking the challenging GR20 trail across the beautiful island of Corsica.
Day 1

Calenzana to Ortu di u Piobbu (1,520 m)

Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +1,270 m
Begin your adventure at Calenzana and hike to Ortu di u Piobbu through rugged terrain and maquis shrubland.
Day 2

Ortu di u Piobbu to Carrozzu (1,270 m)

Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: -250 m
Continue your ascent, passing by the Carrozzu refuge and enjoying panoramic views.
Day 3

Carrozzu to Ascu Stagnu (1,422 m)

Distance: 7 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +152 m
Trek through rocky paths and lush landscapes, reaching the Ascu Stagnu plateau.
Day 4

Ascu Stagnu to Tighjettu (1,686 m)

Distance: 8 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +264 m
Descend through pine forests and continue to the picturesque Tighjettu area.
Day 5

Tighjettu to Ciottulu di I Mori (1,991 m)

Distance: 11 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: +305 m
Hike along the Verghio forest slopes and experience the wild beauty of the landscape.
Day 6

Ciottulu di I Mori to Castel de Vergio (1,400 m)

Distance: 13 kmTime trekking / climbing: 9 hoursElevation change: -591 m
Pass by glacial lakes and traverse challenging terrain, arriving at Castel de Vergio.
Day 7

Castel de Vergio to Manganu (1,600 m)

Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: -200 m
Descend toward the forested region of Vizzavona, passing through scenic landscapes.
Day 8

Manganu to Petra Piana (1,842 m)

Distance: 8 kmTime trekking / climbing: 5 hoursElevation change: +242 m
Walk through lush forests, climbing gradually to the stunning Petra Piana refuge.
Day 9

Petra Piana to L'Onda (1,430 m)

Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: -412 m
Continue through forested trails, descending to the L'Onda refuge.
Day 10

L'Onda to Vizzavona (920 m)

Distance: 14 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: -510 m
Descend further, passing through charming villages and reaching Vizzavona.
Day 11

Vizzavona to E Capannelle (1,590 m)

Distance: 11 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: +670 m
Hike through pine and beech forests, ascending to the E Capannelle refuge.
Day 12

E Capannelle to Prati (1,820 m)

Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +230 m
Enjoy pastoral landscapes as you cross alpine meadows and rolling hills.
Day 13

Prati to Conca (252 m)

Distance: 15 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: -1,568 m
Climb to Bocca di l'Iscamunincu, then descend to the coastal town of Conca, completing the trek.

How difficult is GR20 Corsica

The trek is 6 / 10, based on the below factors:

Terrain & route condition 7 / 10

Treks that involve rugged or uneven terrain, such as rocky paths, scree slopes, or dense forests, may require more technical skills or physical effort.

Altitude / Elevation 5 / 10

Considering the maximum altitude reached during the trek. Higher altitudes can present challenges like thin air, low oxygen levels, and potential altitude sickness.

Distance 8 / 10

The total distance of the trek. Longer treks generally require more endurance and physical fitness.

Elevation gain 7 / 10

Total elevation gain throughout the trek. Treks with significant altitude changes can be more challenging, especially if they involve steep ascents or descents.

Technical difficulty 5 / 10

Some treks may require basic technical skills like river crossings, using ropes, or scrambling over rocks.

Access to facilities / Remoteness 6 / 10

Based on the availability of support facilities such as accommodation, food, water sources, and emergency services. Treks with limited infrastructure or remote areas can be more challenging due to self-sufficiency requirements. The less support facilities there are the harder the trek.

Climate & weather 6 / 10

How tough are the prevailing weather and climate conditions during the trek. Harsh weather, extreme temperatures, or unpredictable conditions can add to the difficulty.