Cutting a rugged path through the heart of Corsica, the GR20 stands as one of Europe’s most challenging and breathtaking long-distance hiking trails. This legendary route, spanning 180 kilometers (112 miles) from north to south, offers adventurers a chance to experience the wild beauty of Corsica’s mountains, forests, and high-altitude lakes. The GR20 isn’t just a trail; it’s a journey through Corsican culture, testing hikers’ limits while rewarding them with unforgettable vistas and a deep connection to the island’s untamed spirit.
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Best Places to Visit
While the entire GR20 is a continuous trail, some notable highlights include:
- Cirque de la Solitude: A dramatic rocky amphitheater (Note: currently closed due to rockfall risk).
- Monte Cinto: Corsica’s highest peak, offering panoramic views.
- Lac de Nino: A beautiful mountain lake surrounded by pozzines (peat bogs).
- Aiguilles de Bavella: Striking granite needles in southern Corsica.
- Vizzavona: The midway point, offering a brief return to civilization.
Things to See and Do
The GR20 is primarily about the hike itself, but along the way, adventurers can:
- Spot Native Wildlife: Look for mouflon (wild sheep) and lammergeiers (bearded vultures).
- Stargaze: Experience incredibly clear night skies in the mountains.
- Cool Off in Mountain Streams: Take refreshing dips in crystal-clear waters.
- Sample Corsican Mountain Cuisine: Try local specialties at refuge huts.
- Learn About Corsican Shepherding Traditions: Pass through areas still used for seasonal grazing.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to hike the GR20 is from mid-June to September. July and August are the busiest months, but also offer the most reliable weather. June and September can be quieter but may have more unstable weather conditions. Always check current conditions and be prepared for sudden changes in mountain weather.
How to Get Around
The GR20 is a hiking trail, so the primary mode of transportation is on foot:
- Hiking: The trail is well-marked with red and white stripes.
- Local Transport: Buses or taxis may be available at certain access points for rest days or emergencies.
- Refuges: These mountain huts serve as nightly stopping points along the trail.
Where to Stay
Accommodation on the GR20 is rustic and primarily consists of:
- Mountain Refuges: Basic huts with dormitory-style sleeping and simple meals.
- Camping: Many refuges have areas for pitching tents.
- Bergeries: Traditional shepherd’s huts converted for hikers.
- Hotels: Available in towns at the start, end, and midpoint (Vizzavona) of the trail.
How to Stay Safe
The GR20 is a challenging trail that requires careful preparation:
- Physical Fitness: Ensure you’re in excellent shape before attempting the trail.
- Proper Equipment: Bring sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, and safety gear.
- Weather Awareness: Check forecasts regularly and be prepared for rapid changes.
- Water and Food: Carry sufficient supplies between refuges.
- Respect the Environment: Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the trail’s beauty.
Best Places to Book Your Trip
Planning your dream trip is easy with trusted travel platforms. To secure the best deals on flights, accommodations, and tours, check out:
- Booking.com: Offers a wide range of hotels, apartments, and hostels to suit every budget.
- GetYourGuide: Book unforgettable experiences like guided tours, cooking classes, and fast-track passes.
- Expedia: A great platform for bundling flights, hotels, and car rentals for a seamless booking experience.
- Skyscanner: Perfect for finding the best deals on flights.
Conclusion
The GR20 is more than just a hiking trail; it’s a journey into the wild heart of Corsica and a test of one’s physical and mental limits. As hikers make their way through rugged mountain passes, dense forests, and alongside crystal-clear streams, they’re not just traversing a landscape – they’re experiencing the raw essence of Corsican nature and culture.
Each step on the GR20 brings new challenges and rewards. The trail demands respect and preparation, but it gives back tenfold in breathtaking vistas, a sense of accomplishment, and a deep connection to the land. From the camaraderie found in mountain refuges to the solitude of high-altitude paths, the GR20 offers a unique blend of social and personal experiences.
The memories created on this trail last a lifetime. The sight of dawn breaking over jagged peaks, the taste of hearty Corsican cuisine after a long day’s hike, the sound of nothing but the wind and one’s own footsteps – these are the moments that make the GR20 legendary.
For those who conquer it, the GR20 is more than an achievement; it’s a transformation. It challenges hikers to push beyond their limits, to find strength they didn’t know they had, and to forge a lasting bond with the wild beauty of Corsica. As the journey ends, whether in the north or south, hikers carry with them not just memories, but a piece of Corsica’s indomitable spirit – a testament to the power of nature and the human will to explore it.
