Corsica GR-20: The Granite Heart of Europe in 18 days
The GR-20 is considered the toughest long-distance route in Europe: granite ridges, exposed sections and wild landscapes that cross Corsica from north to south. 18 days of trekking for experienced mountaineers in very good physical condition.
📍 Corsica, France
About the adventure
The GR-20, one of the landmark routes on the map of Europe, is an impressive challenge for lovers of mountain hiking and adventure. Considered one of the most difficult long-distance trails on the continent, it crosses Corsica from north to south, offering a unique mix of terrain…
But the GR-20 is not only about a difficult mountain trail, but also about discovering your own emotions. It is a journey in which every climb becomes an inner challenge, every descent a lesson in patience, and every sunrise caught from the ridges reminds us of our power to keep going…
This expedition is intended for experienced travelers, as well as for those who want to push their limits through an ascent, who want to discover legendary trails and magnificent, breathtakingly beautiful peaks. Are you ready to join us on this adventure?
Itinerary
Day 1: Flight Bucharest - Calvi
In the afternoon we arrive at our destination, check in, have a meal, explore the town, and in the evening we hold the first briefing with the latest details about the route. After dinner we rest, in order to start our adventure full of energy.
Day 2: Transfer Calvi–Calenzana (275 m) › Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu (1,520 m)
We set off from the picturesque village of Calenzana, the starting point of the GR20 trail. The route opens with a gentle climb on an old mule path that rises towards the ridges above the village. The first and only fountain of this stage offers us a short break…
Day 3: Refuge d'Ortu di u Piobbu (1,520 m) › Refuge de Carrozzu (1,270 m)
In the morning we wake up in a spectacular mountain setting and begin a day full of challenges. We climb toward Bocca di Pisciaghja (1,950 m), crossing a dramatic landscape of scree and stone fields. The succession of spectacular mountain passes will test…
Day 4: Refuge de Carrozzu (1,270 m) › Refuge d’Asco Stagnu (1,422 m)
The day begins energetically with the spectacular crossing of the Spasimata suspension bridge, a perfect spot for a refreshing swim. From here, the trail climbs steeply. First, toward Lake Muvrella, then even higher, through a rocky and challenging gully, up to Bocca Di…
Day 5: Refuge d'Asco Stagnu (1,422 m) › Refuge de Tighjettu (1,683 m)
Today one of the most spectacular stages of the trail awaits us. The path will take us to the highest point of the GR20, at Pointe des Eboulis (2,607 m), with dizzying views over the mountains of Corsica. If we are in good shape, we can climb Monte Cinto…
Day 6: Refuge de Tighjettu (1,683 m) › Refuge de Ciottulu di i Mori (1,991 m)
Today we have a somewhat shorter, but spectacular program. The route begins with a gentle descent toward Bergeries d’u Vallone, where nature offers us a short break before the real challenge. A moment of respite under the shade of the trees will give us the energy…
Day 7: Refuge de Ciottulu di i Mori (1,991 m) › Refuge de Manganu (1,601 m)
We follow the course of the Golu river to Bergeries d’E Radule, where the wild landscape will take our breath away. Then, a peaceful hike awaits us through dense forests, in the shade of the pines, to the Castel de Vergio ski resort, the only place where we will cross a…
Day 8: Refuge de Manganu (1,601 m) › Refuge de Pietra Piana (1,842 m)
We set off from the heart of the mountains, crossing a small wooden bridge, with our gaze fixed to the north, towards the imposing Brèche de Capitello (2,200 m). The route begins gently, among green meadows crossed by crystalline springs and an enchanting lake, but soon it…
Day 9: Refuge de Pietra Piana (1,842 m) › Refuge de l'Onda (1,430 m)
This stage offers spectacular landscapes. We will pass through rocky alpine areas and mountain pastures, on an airy trail with dizzying views. We will have the chance to admire Monte Rotondo Peak (2,622 m), one of the highest peaks in Corsica. From…
Day 10: Refuge de l’Onda (1,430 m) › Vizzavona (920 m)
A varied stage, combining alpine sections with dense forests. Leaving the l’Onda refuge, we will venture onto a steep trail toward the Punta Muratellu ridge (2,020 m), which will take us to peaks from where we can admire unrivaled mountain scenery. A descent…
Day 11: Vizzavona (920 m) › Bergeries de Capannelle (1,586 m)
A radical change of scenery! If the first part of the GR20 trail is rugged and technical, starting with this stage, the route becomes smoother and more accessible. The ascent towards Bocca Palmente begins right after leaving Vizzavona. Although it is not the most…
Day 12: Bergeries de Capannelle (1,586 m) › Refuge de Prati (1,820 m)
The route begins gently, with a walk to the Traggette sheepfolds, where we can take a short break to enjoy the authentic pastoral atmosphere. Next comes a relaxing stretch through a dense forest of pines and beeches, where the sun's rays filter through…
Day 13: Refuge de Prati (1,820 m) › Refuge d’Usciolu (1,750 m)
Starting from the Prati refuge, the climb to the ridge offers a spectacular panorama over the island. Once at the summit, we will feel the true grandeur of this route. For about 2 hours, the trail will carry us along the ridgeline, oscillating between gentle slopes and…
Day 14: Refuge d'Usciolu (1,750 m) › Refuge d'Asinao (1,530 m)
This is one of the most beautiful and challenging stages of the GR20, with incredible landscapes and a diversity of terrain that make this traverse an unforgettable experience. From Usciolu, we follow the path along the Arête des Statues ridge, a section…
Day 15: Refuge d'Asinao (1,530 m) › Refuge de Paliri (1,055 m)
Today a relaxing stage awaits us, with shady areas and superb landscapes, perfect for savoring the last days of the GR20 adventure. Leaving the Asinau Refuge, we will start slowly, following the course of the Asinau River. We cross several streams, surrounded by forests of…
Day 16: Refuge de Paliri (1,055 m) › Conca (252 m)
The last section of the GR20 offers a completely different landscape: soft, sand-covered paths, lush vegetation and a much friendlier route. This is the moment to savor every step, breathe in the Mediterranean air and prepare for triumph! We pass by…
Day 17: Porto Vecchio & Transfer to Calvi
We rest and explore the beautiful town of Porto Vecchio. We savor the specialties of the local cuisine, and towards evening we will transfer to Calvi where we will stay overnight.
Day 18: Flight Calvi – Bucharest
Charged with the energy of a perfect holiday, we pack our bags and take the plane back to Bucharest. At night we arrive home filled with memories and beautiful emotions.
What participants say
“I wholeheartedly recommend the bike camp my 9-year-old son attended! 🚴♂️ Everything was top-notch: flawless organisation, patient and dedicated coaches, varied activities and safety first.”
Bike camp · Google
“The 14 x 2500 m story – an unforgettable experience with extraordinary people. It was an adventure about pushing limits, emotion and freedom.”
14 x 2500 m · Google
“We joined them on Ciucaș and Moldoveanu and we'll definitely go again when time allows! Extraordinary guides, physically, mentally and emotionally prepared! Grateful to have you close!”
Ciucaș, Moldoveanu · Google
Frequently asked questions
What participants say
“I wholeheartedly recommend the bike camp my 9-year-old son attended! 🚴♂️ Everything was top-notch: flawless organisation, patient and dedicated coaches, varied activities and safety first.”
Bike camp · Google
“The 14 x 2500 m story – an unforgettable experience with extraordinary people. It was an adventure about pushing limits, emotion and freedom.”
14 x 2500 m · Google
“We joined them on Ciucaș and Moldoveanu and we'll definitely go again when time allows! Extraordinary guides, physically, mentally and emotionally prepared! Grateful to have you close!”
Ciucaș, Moldoveanu · Google
Frequently asked questions
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