The legendary GR20 is one of the most difficult and picturesque mountain routes in Europe. The GR20 North is a heady trail. Starting in Vizzavona and winding its way through mountain terrains, high ridges, deep gorges and bare granite slopes, the trek offers some fantastic scenery. On the Northern section, there are continuous steep ascents and descents, and the ambiance is strictly alpine. The GR20 North is part of an exceptional, long distance walk, known as one of the most challenging ones in Europe, it offers great trekking with the bonus of your luggage meeting you at points along the route. The GR20 is accessible to mountain walkers who are fit and out in the hills regularly.
Highlights:
♦ Vizzavona - romantic mountain town in the middle of the GR20
♦ Glacial lakes and shepherd's huts - high up in the mountains surrounded by even higher mountain peaks
♦ Pointe des Eboulis - the highest point on the GR20 (2607 m)
The GR20North from Vizzavona to Calvi on the coast is more challenging due to the steep and rocky paths and is also considered incredibly beautiful. The GR20South from Bavella to Vizzavona is considered easier and very spectacular on the Coscione plateau with its green meadows. Read more about it here
Itinerary:
Day 1. Arrive Vizzavona
Vizzavona is the midway point of the GR20. Nestled in the heart of a forest, there is a small railway station that serves as a hub of activity for hikers starting or finishing their GR20 treks. At the beginning of the 20th century, the hamlet was a popular resort for the English. From here, you can take the GR20 trail toward the beautiful Cascade des Anglais. Night in Vizzavona. D/-/ Room or Dormitory
Day 2. Vizzavona to Petra Piana
The walk begins with a lead-in trail that emerges near Canaglia, a small hamlet nestled in the forest. From there, the path follows a mountain stream, winding past smooth rocks and inviting pools, all the way to a shepherd's cabin in a grassy clearing — the perfect rest stop at Tolla. The GR20 then leaves the forest and continues into a beautiful open valley, offering a striking contrast to the earlier part of the walk.Overnight stay: Petra Piana. Tent B/L/D/
Distance: 20 km; Duration: 8h30
Ascent / Descent: +1240 m / -510 m
Day 3. Petra Piana to Camputile Plateau
From Petra Piana, a short uphill section leads you to the high rocky ridge above the refuge. The GR20 crosses a mountain col and continues along the high route, offering spectacular views — including Corte, the island’s historic capital, visible in the distance. Along the way, you’ll discover a series of stunning glacial lakes. From the small Brèche above Lake Capitello, the trail descends steeply to the Manganu refuge, located on the edge of the Camputile Plateau.
Overnight stay: Manganu. Tent. B/L/D/
Distance: 8.5 km; Duration: 5h30
Ascent / Descent: +780 m / -1020 m
Day 4.Camputile Plateau to Col de Vergio
The GR20 gently climbs uphill on a relaxing walk through beech woods and across green, spongy turf to reach Lac de Nino. Situated at 1,743 meters, this glacial lake lies in a beautiful, bucolic setting, surrounded by peatlands and crisscrossed with small streams — an ideal grazing ground for ponies during the summer months.
From the lake, a classic ridge walk continues toward Col de Saint-Pierre, offering magnificent views and, at times, a shimmering glimpse of the sea in the distance.Overnight stay: Col de Vergio. Room or Dormiroty B/L/D/
Distance: 16 km; Duration: 6h30
Ascent / Descent: +540 m / -740 m
Day 5.Col de Vergio to Melarie Valley
The GR20 trail follows the Golu Valley. Midway up the valley, it crosses the torrent and leaves the valley floor, climbing up toward the ridgeline. From here, there are clear views of the villages scattered along the west coast, as well as the jagged outline of the island meeting the sea..At Ciuttolu di i Mori (2,000 m) — the highest refuge in Corsica, located between the peaks of Tafonatu and Paglia Orba — the trail descends steeply through a chaotic landscape of rugged granite and towering pine trees.Overnight stay: Vallone. Tent. B/L/D/
Distance: 14.5 km;Duration: 6h30
Ascent / Descent: +810 m / -780 m
Day 6.Melarie Valley to Haut Asco
Today’s stage is a challenging, high-altitude mountain hike. The GR20 climbs steadily toward the foothills of Monte Cinto, the highest summit on the island. After a few hours of ascent, you reach Bocca Crucetta, from where a dramatic ridge leads to Pointe des Éboulis (2,607 m) — the highest point on the GR20. The views from here are truly breathtaking. From this point, the trail plunges steeply down to a small lake on the other side, then continues its descent across loose scree before finally arriving at Haut Asco.Overnight stay: Haut Asco. Room or Dormitory. B/L/D/
Distance: 9 km; Duration: 8h00
Ascent / Descent: +1,260 m / -1,230 m
Day 7.Haut Asco to Calvi
From Haut Asco, a superb ascent takes you to Bocca di Stagnu (2,010 m), at the foot of Monte Muvrella (2,150 m). From Lake Muvrella, the view over Calvi Bay is truly breathtaking. After passing the Carozzu refuge, the trail continues its descent to Bonifatu via the Mare e Monti route.Upon arrival in Bonifatu, you will be transferred to Calvi, where the holiday concludes. Around 6.00 pm in Calvi, after your last transfer from Bonifatu. End of the tour. B/-/-
Accommodation in Calvi is available upon request — please contact us for details.
Distance: 11 km;Duration: 7h00
Ascent / Descent: +690 m / -1,600 m
How to get there: Ajaccio, Bastia Airports or Ports. If you arrive into Calvi please ask for details of transport connections.
Practical information: Tough - mountain trekking experience essential. Numerous steep climbs with off-trail sections, on ridges, slabs and rocks. Snow-covered passes at the start of the season. Handrails on the Cinto massif. Warning The GR20 is a very sporty itinerary, and the free version is reserved for experienced hikers. Even if we've improved walking comfort, the ascents/descents and technical difficulties of the terrain are still there!
Accommodation
Dormitories in refuges and gîtes or in tents equipped with mattresses (showers and WC facilities are limited - sleeping bag is required).
Nessesary equipment: suitable box for your picnic lunch; sturdy walking boots and walking socks, a small rucksack 35-50 l, walking poles, sleeping bag, a water bottle with at least 1-2 l capacity, sunglasses, sunhat, sun cream, wind- and waterproof jacket, proper clothing for cold weather, bathing suit, first-aid kit, headlamp, insect repellent.
Price Includes: 6 overnights at refuges,gites and tents
Main luggage transfer (1 pc per person up to 15 kg)
Map and road book in English
Food according to the itinerary (B-breakfast,L-lunch,D-dinner)
Transfers as per program
Not Included: Flight tickets
Travel insurance
Transfer from/to airport
Beverages and meals not mentioned in the program
Personal expenses
Entrance fees
Overnight on day 7
Extra Services: Additional supplement for a hotel in Calvi on day 7 or in Vizzavona: on request
