GR20 North: Calenzana to Vizzavona
The northern section of the GR20, Corsica's legendary trail, through granite needles, mountain lakes, and wild maquis.
Eight days on the northern half of the GR20, reputed to be Europe's toughest long-distance trail. From Calenzana to the Carrozzu refuge, from Lake Nino to the Manganu refuge, the route crosses ridges, notches and granite chaos in the heart of the Corsican mountains. It's a demanding trek for seasoned hikers: cabled sections, heavy ascent and fickle weather at altitude. The safe season runs June to September, once the snow has melted. Book refuges ahead, carry plenty of water and full mountain gear. The reward: wild landscapes and the ever-present sea view. The northern section is the most technical and the most spectacular.
Practical info
- Stops
- 6
- Duration
- 8 days
- Transport
- 🥾 On foot
- Distance
- ≈ 50 km
- Best time
- Spring and summer
Itinerary
- 1
Calenzana
Point de depart officiel du GR20, village de montagne entre oliviers et maquis, derniers ravitaillements.
- 2
Refuge de Carrozzu
Refuge perche sous les aiguilles de Bonifatu, passerelle suspendue et piscines naturelles de la Spasimata.
- 3
Lac de Nino
Lac glaciaire entoure de pozzines, pelouses tourbeuses uniques en Mediterranee, chevaux sauvages.
- 4
Refuge de Manganu
Refuge isole au pied du massif du Rotondo, etape de transition entre Haute-Corse et Corse-du-Sud.
- 5
Col de Verghio
Plus haut col routier de Corse, foret de pins Laricio et panorama sur le Niolo.
- 6
Vizzavona
Gare en foret de hetres et de pins, cascades des Anglais, fin de la section nord du GR20.
