Trekking guide
Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc
An overview of the Tour du Mont Blanc loop, how long it takes, when to go, where to sleep and how to hike it safely and responsibly.
Trail guide
Hiking the GR20 in Corsica: An Overview Guide
Europe's famously tough mountain traverse of Corsica — route, stages, season, refuge booking and safety, without the hype.
The GR20 crosses the mountainous spine of Corsica from north to south. It is regularly described as one of the toughest long-distance trails in Europe — not because of extreme altitude, but because of relentless steep ascents and descents, long sections of rock and boulder, exposed scrambling aided by chains in places, and summer heat and storms. It is also spectacularly beautiful: granite ridges, high lakes, pine and beech forest, and views to the sea on both sides of the island.
This overview is meant to help you decide whether the GR20 is right for you and what to plan for. It is not a stage-by-stage route description; use an up-to-date guidebook and the official park information for that.
Route and structure
The trail is commonly split at the village of Vizzavona, roughly halfway, which has a railway station:
- North section (Calenzana–Vizzavona): generally considered the harder half, with more sustained rocky terrain, steep scrambles and higher passes. It includes the Monte Cinto massif area; Monte Cinto, Corsica's highest summit at 8,878 feet (2,706 m), is a side ascent rather than on the main route.
- South section (Vizzavona–Conca): somewhat gentler, with more forest and grassy ridges, though still long and demanding days.
Many hikers complete only one half, which is a sensible choice if time or fitness is limited. Stages typically take 5–8 hours of walking, and some take longer for less experienced hikers.
The route has been modified over the years, including after a fatal rockfall in 2015 in the Cirque de la Solitude, when that section was closed and the trail rerouted. Follow current waymarks and park information rather than older maps or accounts.
When to go
The usual hiking season runs from June to September, when the refuges are staffed. Early in the season, snow can linger on high north-facing slopes and passes. July and August are the busiest and hottest months, with a higher risk of afternoon thunderstorms. September is often quieter with more stable weather, but days are shorter and some services begin to close.
Accommodation and supplies
Along the route, refuges offer bunk spaces, tent pitches and rental tents; some sell simple meals and basic supplies in season. Bergeries (shepherds' huts) on some stages also sell food such as cheese and bread. Supplies are limited and prices reflect the difficulty of getting goods to the mountains — plan to carry several days of food between resupply points.
Who the GR20 is (and isn't) for
The GR20 suits fit, experienced hikers who are comfortable on steep, rocky, exposed terrain with a full pack, and who can navigate and make conservative decisions in mountain weather. It is not a good first long-distance hike, and it is not suitable for children or for people with a fear of heights. Hikers looking for a classic hut-to-hut trek with gentler terrain may prefer the Tour du Mont Blanc.
For more mountain ideas, see our list of must-visit mountains in Europe, or our guide to trekking in the Atlas Mountains.
References
Facts in the Key facts boxes are drawn from the sources listed under References. Rules, seasons and access change — confirm with the official authority before you go. How we work.