The GR20 North

You ascend the Manganellu Valley. Initially shaded along a track, the route then follows a path near the Tolla sheepfolds. Following the stream, you'll be tempted to take advantage of the pools carved out by the current for a refreshing dip. The slope then steepens and becomes quite steep before opening onto the small plateau where the Petra Piana refuge is located.

This stage is perhaps the most alpine of the GR20. Indeed, you'll cross the two highest points of this trek: Bocca Muzzela and the Capitello pass. Only the ripples on the surface of the lakes add a touch of movement to this landscape where rock is omnipresent. Snow lingers for a long time in these places, and you'll appreciate all the more the arrival on the green Camputile plateau.

Note: At the beginning of the season, the presence of snow at the Capitello gaps may force us to modify the stage for your safety.

Leaving the Camputile plateau, the route leads you to a truly exceptional spot in the Corsican mountains: Lake Ninu. Walking along the lake, where numerous horses graze, you'll experience a profound sense of freedom. At Bocca a Reta, the views of the Cintu massif and the Niolu valley are breathtaking. From the Saint Pierre pass, the GR20 follows the old patrol path through the Valdu Niellu forest to Castel di Vergio. You are now in the Niolu region, the land of shepherds, home to some of Corsica's highest villages.

A beautiful day hike awaits, culminating in the ascent to the highest mountain refuge in Corsica: Ciottulu i Mori. Leaving the Vergio pass in the Niolu region, the GR20 trail passes near the Radule sheepfolds before entering the Tula valley. The path winds alongside stunning natural pools. Paglia Orba and Capu Tafunatu, two iconic mountains of the island, tower above this valley. You'll pass at the foot of these mountains before beginning a fairly technical descent to reach the Mélarie valley.

This legendary hike in the heart of the Cintu massif (2706m) offers a fantastic panoramic view of the island's peaks. A mythical stage, it includes the highest point of the GR 20 trail at 2604 meters altitude at Pointe des Eboulis. This challenging, alpine, mountainous, and exposed route offers magnificent vistas in a stark, rocky landscape. In case of bad weather, snow, or physical fatigue, we recommend taking the shuttle service to Haut Asco. A shuttle is available in the village of Calasima. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours from the Tighjettu refuge and 1.5 hours from the Vallone sheepfolds to reach the village.

From Ascu-Stagnu, you'll need to start your hike early in the morning to reach Bocca Di Stagnu at the foot of the Muvrella mountain. The proximity of the sea signals the end of the GR20. At the small Muvrella lake, the view over the Bay of Calvi is superb. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful sections of the GR20. Shortly before the Carozzu refuge, crossing the Spasimata footbridge will offer a few thrills. This descent to Bonifatu, overlooking the Spasimata stream, is very spectacular and quite strenuous. Upon arrival in Bonifatu, you'll be transferred by taxi to Calvi.