4-day excursion on the GR20 North

This high route connects two rocky refuges via a winding mountain ridge. From the grassy terrace of the first refuge, the ascent is initially gentle before climbing steeply towards a series of passes. Once you've climbed above the last pine trees, you'll be rewarded with views of Punta Innominata (1,986 m) and the distant bulk of Monte Cinto (2,706 m). After reaching the highest point of the main ridge, the route continues downhill through darker forests to the second refuge.

From here, a marked path climbs through twisted pines and granite slabs. A clear spring and scattered stone ruins offer a chance for a brief respite before the long ascent. The path then narrows in zigzags along the ridge below the Bocca di Pisciaghja/Piccaia (2,012 m), offering sweeping views into the Bonifatu forest, before traversing exposed ledges. After a section of rock scrambling, you cross the Bocca di l'Innominata, situated between Punta Innominata (1,986 m) and Punta Ghialla (2,085 m).

The descent begins with rocky steps, which then soften into dirt paths winding through tall pines. Gradually, the sound of running water grows louder as you cross small streams and shaded ravines. A final winding path leads to a grassy clearing, among the trees of which you will see stone buildings and plowed platforms.

This section of the trail connects the Carozzu refuge (1,270 m) to the Ortu di u Piobbu refuge (1,520 m), gradually ascending towards the higher reaches of the massif. Very quickly, the path leaves the refuge and becomes quieter, winding between granite boulders, maquis shrubland, and increasingly expansive views of the valleys. The route alternates between sections along ledges and crossings of small hollows, offering lovely views of the surrounding ridges.

After a steep start, the trail reaches the Lamitu stream, whose murmur accompanies the progress along a shaded section. Higher up, the natural pools of the Melaghia stream invite a pause, with their clear basins nestled between the rocks. The climb then becomes steeper, winding through the Laricio pine forest, whose straight trunks and filtered light create an almost ethereal atmosphere.

Emerging from the forest, the landscape opens up dramatically, and the Ortu di u Piobbu refuge appears above, perched on a rocky plateau. The final few meters are in a more alpine environment, giving the sensation of having truly gained altitude. Upon arrival, the refuge's atmosphere, the water sources, and the views of the surrounding peaks offer an ideal setting to relax, enjoy the scenery, and calmly plan the next leg of the journey.

This section of the trail leaves the Ortu di u Piobbu refuge (1,520 m) and descends gradually towards the sea and the village of Calenzana (275 m). From the very first steps, you feel yourself leaving the high mountains behind and slipping into a more Mediterranean atmosphere. The views open up to the ridges, the valleys, and, on a clear day, all the way to the coastline.

The highest point is near the refuge, from where the descent begins steadily. The trail follows the ridge of Capu Ghiovu (1,630 m), offering beautiful views of the rocky ridges and neighboring peaks. Lower down, you reach the Arghjova promontory, a natural balcony suspended above the valleys, ideal for a final break overlooking the Corsican interior. Gradually, the vegetation changes; the pines give way to maquis, oaks, and the scents of garrigue.

As you approach Calenzana, the road becomes gentler and the village appears nestled among fields, olive groves, and tiled roofs. The descent ends in narrow streets, amidst stone houses and small, shaded squares. It's an arrival that feels like a return to civilization, offering the chance to relax on a terrace, do some shopping, and soak up the Corsican atmosphere a little longer before hitting the road again.