GR20: The Legendary Corsican Traverse

Our Guided GR20 follows one of Europe’s toughest and most spectacular long-distance trails, crossing the rugged spine of Corsica from north to south. Often described as “the hardest trek in Europe”, the GR20 rewards every step of effort with extraordinary alpine scenery, granite peaks, deep forests, and crystal-clear mountain pools.

This guided itinerary takes you through the very best sections of the GR20 in 9 challenging and unforgettable days, from the lush forests of Bonifatu to the jagged spires of the Aiguilles de Bavella and the Mediterranean landscapes near Conca. You’ll travel light, stay in mountain refuges, gîtes, and small hotels, and share the adventure with a supportive group and an experienced international mountain leader (IML).

This hike is aimed at those seeking a real adventure, ideally after already completing the TMB or the Haute Route. In exchange for the wilder and more technical terrain you will be rewarded with empty trails and breath taking scenery!

Be prepared to carry everything you will need for the trek on your back. A small 1-2 season sleeping bag (500-1000 grams) is required and its best to be ruthless on the weight saving to make this trip as enjoyable as possible!

For detailed day-by-day descriptions, see the full itinerary below.

Hike Start and End Point

• Start: Calvi / Bonifatu, Corsica

• Finish: Conca / Porto Vecchio, Corsica

Price Includes

• Accommodation (mountain refuges, gîtes, camping, or hotels as per itinerary)

• All planned transportation according to the itinerary

• Fully qualified international mountain leader (IML)

• Half-board (breakfast and 3-course dinner)

• Packed lunch provided each hiking day

• Support from our local Corsican logistics team

Price Does Not Include

• Flights or airport transfers

• Personal hiking equipment rental

• Personal expenses, drinks, and snacks

Full Trip Itinerary:

Arrival in Corsica and make your way to Calvi

Hotel accommodation in Calvi. Group briefing and welcome dinner.

Day 1 – Forêt Bonifatu to Haut Asco

A demanding first day that sets the tone for the GR20. After a transfer to Bonifatu, we climb through fragrant pine forest to Refuge Carrozzu and cross the dramatic Spasimata suspension bridge before tackling the steep Spasimata slabs with the help of cables and chains. Lunch by Lac de Muvrella, then ascend to Bocca di Muvrella (2000 m) for breathtaking views over Monte Cinto and the Mediterranean. ( Day 1 & 2 are the toughest days with steep and technical terrain. Its best to arrive prepared and ready to start your hike off with a strong mind and body!)
Ascent: 1480 m | Descent: 600 m | Distance: 12 km | Duration: 8.5–9 h
Accommodation: Hotel, Haut Asco

Day 2 – Haut Asco to Bergeries Ballone

A big mountain day to the summit of Monte Cinto (2706 m), Corsica’s highest peak. Technical sections with chains and steep scree lead to the Pointe d’Eboulis and the high ridge above Lac Cinto. Weather permitting, we’ll summit before descending to our riverside campsite at Bergeries Ballone.
Ascent/Descent: 1600 m | Distance: 13 km | Duration: 8–9 h
Accommodation: Camping (tents provided)

Day 3 – Bergeries Ballone to Col de Vergio

A gentler start through the Laricio pine forests, then a climb to Bocca di Foggiale and a traverse to Refuge Ciuttulu di i Mori. We descend into the Golo Valley, with a stop at Bergeries de Radule for homemade cakes before reaching our hotel at Col de Vergio.
Ascent: 970 m | Descent: 1020 m | Distance: 15 km | Duration: 6–6.5 h
Accommodation: Hotel or comfort safari tent

Day 4 – Col de Vergio to Refuge de Sega

A beautiful transition day through open alpine meadows and mountain lakes. From Bocca a Reta, we descend past Lac Nino and grazing wild horses to the wild Tavignano Valley and the stunning Refuge de Sega, surrounded by waterfalls and swimming pools.
Ascent: 965 m | Descent: 1200 m | Distance: 23 km | Duration: 8–8.5 h
Accommodation: Refuge (dormitory or tent)

Day 5 – Refuge de Sega to Corte

A spectacular descent through granite canyons and pine forest — Corsica’s own version of Yosemite Valley. We follow the ancient Tavignano Gorge trail to Corte, stopping to swim in natural pools before transferring to Col de Verde for the start of the southern GR20.
Ascent: 720 m | Descent: 1400 m | Distance: 13 km | Duration: 5–5.5 h
Accommodation: Camping Relais San Petru, Col de Verde

Day 6 – Col de Verde to Cozzano

A steady climb through forest and mountain pasture to Refuge de Prati, then a stunning traverse along the high ridge with panoramic sea views before descending to the village of Cozzano.
Ascent: 750 m | Descent: 1300 m | Distance: 20 km | Duration: 8 h
Accommodation: Gîte (shared dormitory)

Day 7 – Cozzano to Il Croce

An early start through maquis-covered slopes to gain the airy Arete a Mondi ridge, with sweeping views over the central mountains. The descent through beech forest leads to our pastoral overnight stop near Il Croce.
Ascent: 1430 m | Descent: 740 m | Distance: 18.5 km | Duration: 8 h
Accommodation: Dormitory or tents

Day 8 – Il Croce to Col de Bavella

Perhaps the most dramatic day of the GR20. We ascend to Col d’Incudine and, conditions permitting, continue to the summit (2134 m). After a steep descent to Refuge Asinau, we take the “Alpine variant” through the Aiguilles de Bavella — jagged granite towers and short scrambling sections with chains and ladders. A true highlight.
Ascent: 1300 m | Descent: 1400 m | Distance: 21 km | Duration: 9–10 h
Accommodation: Gîte (shared rooms or private if available)

Day 9 – Col de Bavella to Conca

A celebratory final stage through Corsican pine forests and rocky viewpoints. We pass Refuge de Paliri for a final coffee before descending to Conca, the southern end of the GR20. Celebrate your success before transferring to Porto Vecchio for a well-earned rest by the sea.
Ascent: 700 m | Descent: 500 m | Distance: 19 km | Duration: 7 h
Accommodation: Hotel (twin or private rooms)

Day 10 – Departure

Transfer to Ajaccio for return flights or onward travel.

What to pack – Here’s a great video on what to pack for your trip. Also remember to bring a 2 season sleeping bag and keep it light!

Our treks include all the services and the meals during the trek so you can focus on the hiking and enjoying the views. Here's what's not included:

• Equipment rental. Contact us about pole rentals.
• Pre- / post-trek accommodation
• Travel to / from the trek
• Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, drinks, etc.)
• Any taxis or transfers you may need to take if you need to skip a trekking day
• Tips (entirely at your discretion)
• Trekking travel insurance

Luggage transfer and luggage storage during the trek - please read up your trek description to find out details, or Contact us for more details. Each trek is different in terms of luggage storage options.

You know your travel habits best, so budget accordingly. Most places accept cards and where cash is required, on the Tour du Mont Blanc you can use Euros. Haute Route is mainly in Switzerland, so consider bringing Swiss Francs for your private expenses.

Contact us to arrange a private group, you choose the dates and comforts that suit you. The price will vary depending on your group size and choices of accommodation.