GR20
GR20: Corsica’s Expert High-Mountain Traverse
The GR20 is a 180 km point-to-point traverse of Corsica in France, running through the island’s mountainous spine from Calenzana to Conca. It is typically walked in 15 days over 16 stages and is widely called the toughest long-distance trail in Europe. Expect about 12,500 m of ascent, rocky ground, scrambling, scree, exposed ridges and fixed chains in places. This is an expert route for fit, confident mountain hikers rather than a first hut-to-hut trek.
Route Overview
The classic direction is north to south, from Calenzana to Conca, though the GR20 is a point-to-point trail rather than a loop. The northern half is the more technical section, crossing high granite ridges around the Monte Cinto massif and the Cirque de la Solitude area before the route trends south towards Lac de Nino and the Aiguilles de Bavella. Accommodation is in mountain refuges and campsites along the way, with no permit required. Verified transport details are not provided in the brief, so plan access to Calenzana and onward travel from Conca separately. For a less technical Alpine circuit, compare the Tour du Mont Blanc; for a pilgrimage-style French trail, see the GR65 (Le Puy Camino).
History of the GR20
Created in 1972, the GR20 is also known as Fra li Monti, meaning “through the mountains”. It was designed to cross Corsica’s mountainous spine from north to south, linking high ridges, passes, lakes and mountain refuges. Its reputation comes mainly from the northern half, where the terrain is more technical than the southern section, with rough granite, scrambling and exposed mountain walking.
Notable highlights
- Cirque de la Solitude area and northern granite ridges: A steep, rocky high-mountain section in the north of the route. It gives the GR20 much of its technical reputation, with scrambling, scree and ridge travel.
- Monte Cinto massif: The route passes through the high mountain area below Monte Cinto, with Pointe des Éboulis listed as the GR20’s highest point at about 2,607 m. This is one of the most demanding parts of the traverse.
- Lac de Nino: A mountain lake on the GR20 and a major change of scenery after the harsher northern ridges. It is a memorable place for hikers crossing Corsica’s interior.
- Aiguilles de Bavella: A cluster of jagged granite spires in the south of the route. The terrain here is still mountainous, but the southern half is generally less technical than the north.
- Mountain refuges: The GR20 is structured around refuges and bivouac areas, making it a classic hut-and-camp trekking route. Facilities are basic, so plan food, bookings and camping arrangements carefully.
Challenges to expect
Expect sustained expert-level mountain terrain: rocky paths, scrambling, scree, ridges and fixed chains in places. The 12,500 m of total ascent over 180 km makes the GR20 physically demanding, and the northern half is notably more technical than the south. The practical season is mid-June to September, when refuges are open and high passes are generally clear of snow. For another rugged French mountain area, compare the Cirque de Gavarnie Trails.
France - Mountainous
- Rocky
- Huts
- Campsites
- Pet Friendly
- Restrooms
- Water Sources
- Campsites
- Shelters
The route begins in Calenzana, climbing steeply through fragrant maquis and chestnut woods, before ascending into rocky terrain. The stage features continuous uphill hiking, with impressive views back over Calvi bay and the Mediterranean coast. After navigating several stream crossings and rocky ledges, you’ll reach the refuge at Ortu di u Piobbu.
This stage traverses rugged high mountain terrain, crossing a series of spectacular ridges. The path continues with ups and downs, offering dramatic panoramic views. The descent towards Carrozzu is demanding, passing through pine forests and across the dramatic Spasimata footbridge before arriving at the refuge.
A demanding day that features a steep ascent to the Bocca di l’Innominata, followed by a traverse beneath the craggy Punta Ghialla. The descent to Asco Stagnu is steep and can be slippery, passing through juniper and pine forests. This stage ends at the Asco Stagnu ski station and refuge.
This is one of the toughest sections, featuring the ascent to the highest point of the GR20, the Pointe des Eboulis, near Monte Cinto. The path is very rocky and steep, with challenging scrambles and scree slopes. After the demanding climb, there’s a long descent to the Tighjettu refuge.
A relatively short but scenic day, following the Golo river valley before climbing up through rocky highlands. The well-built trail ascends steadily with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The stage finishes at the remote Ciottulu di i Mori refuge, situated under the imposing Paglia Orba.
Descent begins through the wild Golo valley, with river crossings and lush vegetation. The route passes the tranquil Bergerie de Radule, then continues over rolling terrain to the lovely Lac de Nino, with grazing wild horses. The trail then meanders across high plateaus before reaching the Manganu refuge.
This stage is known for its high, rugged terrain, including the famous ridge walk above glacial lakes Capitellu and Melo. The trail features steep ascents and challenging crossings, including rocky scrambles and exposed sections, before a final steep approach to the Petra Piana refuge.
From Petra Piana, the trail requires careful navigation of boulder fields and traverses high ridges above the central mountains. Expect exposed paths, windswept conditions, and excellent views. After a descent through grassy slopes, you’ll reach the l’Onda refuge.
This stage drops into the dense forested valley of the Agnone river, with a steady descent much of the way. The walk features the famous Cascades des Anglais waterfalls. The day concludes at Vizzavona, the traditional halfway point, with simple amenities and transport links.
Leaving Vizzavona, the route climbs through mixed forest and past waterfalls, then traverses the forested ridges of southern Corsica. The trail passes the Bocca Palmente, offering panoramas, and finally descends to E Capannelle, a small ski station with a gîte.
This relatively gentle day continues along high plateaus and through shady pine woods, passing ancient shepherd huts and open pastures. Small streams offer the chance to refill water. The stage ends at the Bocca di Verdi refuge, nestled at the edge of the forest.
From Bocca di Verdi, ascend into the forest and then up onto exposed granite ridge lines. Enjoy airy traverses with expansive views and some technical sections along the crest before finally arriving at the windswept Usciolu refuge.
This stage follows the famed granite crest known as the Arête a Monda, with spectacular east-west views. The trail is exposed and rocky, with sharp ups and downs before descending through beech forests to the Croce area for the night.
Walk through forests of pine and beech before ascending to the renowned Bavella massif. The route crosses high passes and traverses the dramatic, jagged spires of the Aiguilles de Bavella. There is an optional alpine variation for the more adventurous before reaching the Bavella refuge.
The final leg descends from the Bavella spires through aromatic scrub, Mediterranean woodlands, and rocky paths. Enjoy views of the Tyrrhenian Sea as you approach lower elevations. The trail ends triumphantly in Conca, marking the completion of the GR20.