Corsica GR20 North
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Trek the northern half of the famous GR20
The Grand Randonnee (GR) 20 is considered to be Europe's most challenging long distance walking trail. Established in 1972 the route traverses the interior of Corsica for 200kms, crossing granite mountains and rugged alpine terrain with opportunities to view stunning snowcapped peaks and in the distance Corsica's dramatic coastline. The outstanding feature of the walk is the diversity of terrain, from lush forests of pine and beech to narrow trails through towering pinnacles, to high windswept plateaus. At night the warm hospitality of the gîtes d’etapes or mountain refuges (complete with hot shower) makes for a welcome treat where like minded walkers can share their experiences of the day. This trip is suitable for fit walkers with good outdoor experience in mountainous terrain, who are able to navigate using a map (scaled to 1/25000th). Your main luggage is transferred most days, allowing you to walk with just a day pack. Stunning gorges, alpine lakes and the legendary Cirque de la Solitude are included in this challenging hike from Calvi in the north of Corsica to the Gorges of Restonica near the centre of the island. On some stages you will be required to climb ladders to ascend the granite passes, however the 360 degree views are worth the effort. There are plenty of opportunities to sample the local mountain produce and swim in alpine lakes and rivers during this rugged traverse. Note: for safety reasons this trip cannot be operated for one person. A minimum of two people are required.
Highlights
- A great opportunity to walk the northern section of the famous GR20
- Experiencing the stunning landscape and diverse flora and fauna
- Meet with shepherds or other hikers enroute
- Enjoy the freedom of travelling light with all of your logistics taken care of
- Delighting in the warm hospitality of the accommodation providers
Itinerary
Day 1 Calvi to Bonifatu (4.5 hrs)
The trip begins in Calvi from where you will have a transfer organised to Calenzana. This little village surrounded by olive trees, is where the hike begins. The walk today is spectacular, with several river crossings as well as magnificent viewpoints of the typical towns of the Balagne region. It is an excellent warm up for the GR20 offering superb views of coastal Corsica. Approximate ascent 800m / descent 540m. Double room option possible*
Day 2 To High Asco (8-8.5 hrs)
After breakfast, you will leave Bonifatu for one of the longest days of the week. You will cross several rivers before reaching the famous footbridge of Spasimata, which is 30m long and is suspended above a waterfall that has the honour of being on many postcards of the GR20. The trail takes you to the Valley of the Muvrella (mouflons – a type of wild sheep) and its small lake. The viewpoints are numerous and are particularly impressive from the passes. You will arrive at the foot of Monte Cinto, the highest summit of Corsica, where you will spend the night. Approximate ascent 1300m / descent 598m. Double room option possible*
Day 3 To the sheepfolds of Vallone (6.5 hrs)
Tonight's accommodation is in a great setting where you may have the chance to observe mouflons (a type of wild sheep) which are numerous in this region of Corsica. The legendary Cirque de la Solitude offers you one of the most impressive landscapes of the GR20. Equipped with handrails and a ladder, this fairly technical passage will leave you great memories once crossed! A detour is possible to avoid it. Following this exciting crossing, you reach the refuge of Tighjettu before continuing towards the sheepfolds of Vallone, where a cluster of shepherd huts await you with ample portions of home-cooked food made from local products. Approximate ascent 1050m / descent 980m. Overnight tent – carry only gear for the night today with your main luggage transferred to the next accommodation.
Day 4 To Verghio (6-6.5 hrs)
After waking up to views of the surrounding mountains, the day begins with a gentle walk through a forest of giant Laricio pines before a long climb up the Bocca di Fuciale. The climb is soon rewarded as you reach up and over the saddle towards the Refuge of Ciotulu i Mori, where the view expands down towards the Golo valley. From here, the path becomes much easier, as you wind your way down the valley, past the many rock pools on the Golo river, which are fantastic for swimming. The final stretch takes you back through the woods and up again to Castel di Verghio. Approximate ascent 971m / descent 1017m. Double room option possible*
Day 5 To the Sega Refuge (7.5 hrs)
This morning you continue through the forest with some slight ascents. As you climb, the trees become scarce and you approach the Lake of Nino and its pozzines (a series of ponds surrounding the lake). This is one of the most well known lakes in Corsica. The surroundings are superb, with fantastic views of the mountains, and horses, cows and pigs can often be seen grazing around the lake. From here, the view is spectacular taking in the part of the mountains that you have already crossed. The path continues and takes you to one of the most beautiful refuges on the island. Approximate ascent 869m / descent 689m. Overnight dorm - carry only gear for the night today with your main luggage transferred to the next accommodation.
Day 6 To Corté (6 hrs)
After a final dip in the natural pools near the refuge you will begin the walk alongside the Tavignano River to Corte. During the walk there will be plenty of opportunities for swimming in the river. Approximate ascent 720m / descent 1400m. Overnight Hotel on twinshare basis. Note: This last day's walk is not on the GR20, but is a stunning and worthy hike in its own right. Dinner is not included, but there are restaurants within easy reach of the hotel.
Day 7 Trip concludes at Corté or continue on the southern section of the GR20
From Grotelle you can either continue with the GR20 South by taking the train to Vizzavona or your trip concludes after breakfast.
Additional Information
Inclusions
- 6 breakfasts – continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, coffee, tea and juices. 6 picnic lunches – they generally consist of sandwiches, salads, fruits, vegetables – depending on what products are available. 5 dinners – will also vary according to the fresh produce available.
- 4 nights accommodation in gîtes d’etapes, 1 night in tent, 1 night in a simple hotel on a twinshare basis in Corte. *Note that there is an option to have a double room for an additional 3 nights. A supplement applies. This option must be requested at the time of booking.
- Luggage transfers (except day 3 & 5 where main luggage gets transferred ahead and you carry only what you need for 2 days) - max 12kgs, one bag
- Information kit including detailed maps and route notes
Group Size Min
2
Group Size Max
Accommodation Summary
Equipment Required
Wet weather gear, sunscreen, day pack (at least 30 litres) and sun hat. A comprehensive gear list is included in the pre-departure information provided on booking.
What You Carry
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from
USD$1,290
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