Included: An experienced, International Mountain Leader with extensive knowledge of the area 14-day GR-20 Corsica trekking tour All accommodation (details in the itinerary) All breakfasts and packed lunches Most dinners (except on Day 1, 7, and 13) All transportation during the tour Fixed-time airport transfer from Bastia Airport to Calvi on Day 1 & from Porto Vecchio to Figari on Day 14 Luggage transfers on all but 2 nights Not included: Transportation to Corsica Dinners on Day 1, 7, and 13 Sleeping bag Personal drinks and snacks Travel and medical/rescue insurance — mandatory Guide gratuities — optional Should you need to make any changes to your booking after confirmation, please be aware that a 100 GBP administrative fee applies to each modification.

How fit do I need to be?

Your guides firmly believe the GR-20 in Corsica deserves its reputation of being the hardest trek in Europe . It’s a very tough trek with long walking days in succession, meaning that you must be very fit and already have experience with high mountain hiking over several days. It’s a tougher walk than most people expect. There’s also a lot of scrambling and on occasion you will need to use fixed chains and ladders, so it’s not suitable for those with vertigo. You’ll come across numerous large drops, so you have to be sure that you’re not going to make a clumsy slip. Some ascents are very long, some descents very steep, so that’s something to consider if you have sore knees. Walking poles come in very handy on the GR20, as they reduce the shock on your legs. The GR-20 is a very remote trek, making it difficult to “sit out” a day if you’re feeling tired. All days are long (some 9-10 hours of hiking) and you can’t go too slowly. If you do not arrive fully fit and geared up, you will not only be jeopardizing your own chances of completing the route, but also the enjoyment and safety of other people. Slow hikers add several hour to a day, and while this can usually be accommodated on many other trips, that’s not the case with the GR20. If you’re thinking of joining the GR20 trek, make sure you are ready for two weeks of very long and challenging days . Your guides put together this trip in a way that they organize your breakfasts, lunches, and most dinners, and instead of rustic mountain huts, you will stay at hotels and privately-run gîtes—with your luggage delivered daily.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Backpack large enough to carry things you’ll need throughout the day — 35-45L, anything bigger will be too heavy (also make sure that you can fit everything you need for an overnight stay including your sleeping bag) Kit bag — for main luggage which is transported, please try to keep the weight to 15 kg or below Dry bags / plastic bags — to keep kit dry Waterproof jacket and trousers — as light as possible Hiking poles — optional, but recommended Hiking boots or shoes — make sure they’re in good condition before embarking, as there are no gear show along the way Week’s worth hiking clothing Trekking trousers (bring something lightweight) Shorts T-shirts (wicking t-shirts are better than cotton) Mid-layer (fleece jacket is good) Spare clothes for layering Socks, underwear Warm hat and gloves Swimsuit Travel towel (not provided in gites) Flip flops / crocs Sleeping bag Sleeping bag liner — comfort rating of around 3-5°C , a lightweight one weighs around 1kg or less Tupperware box Fork, spoon, or spork Wash kit Water bottle and camelbak — camelbak is recommended and can come in really handy on this trip, but it’s best to take both (make sure you have the capacity to carry at least 4 litres of water) Sunhat and sunglasses Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight — a lightweight one Insurance documents Basic first aid kit — the guide will carry a large first aid kit, but for emergencies only, make sure you bring painkillers, blister treatment and plasters, rehydration salts (dioralite), diarrhea treatment (immodium), antiseptic cream, antihistamine cream or tablets + any personal medication you normally take Here’s the optional gear: Earplugs — indispensable in dorms Penknife Snacks — dried fruit, nuts, energy bars… Walking trainers — there are a few days where you might prefer to wear walking trainers in order to give your feet a break from boots Travel pillow Pillow case Thermarest — only needed for the one night you camp, so it’s not really necessary Water purifying tablets Antibacterial handwash Buff Camera Book Mobile phone Travel kettle and tea bags Multi-plug adapter Power pack

What’s the accommodation like?

Generally speaking, accommodation on the GR20 is notoriously bad. Usually you’d stay in overcrowded and “rustic” mountain huts, but for this trip, your guides have carefully selected an assortment of hotels and privately-run gîtes (traditional rental homes). This makes the trip and overnights extremely comfortable in comparison to other companies. Still, do not expect luxury—the accommodation is basic, simple, and clean, and your luggage will be delivered daily . This is a massive bonus of this guided trip, as you don’t have to carry with you 40-lbs backpacks. You will spend… 5 nights in good hotels with ensuite facilities (twin or double rooms, very occasionally a triple) 6 nights in privately-run gîtes in mixed-dormitory accommodation (with showers and toilets) 1 night in a spectacularly-located mountain refuge with 6-8 people per room (with showers and toilets) 1 night at a shepherds hut where you camp (simple toilet facilities and 1 shower) In your guides’ experience, gîtes and refuges all have hot showers—in many years of doing trips, they’ve only had 1 or 2 cold showers. But the great thing of these two places that are most likely culprits of not having hot water is that they’re next to fantastic rock pools, so most people prefer to swim in the pools at the end of the day. Overall, your guides have really chosen the best of the best for this route. One of the main reasons that your guides avoid huts is that they’re renowned for bed bugs—they will never stay at any establishment where they have been reported (unlike other operators). Still, your guides do recommend washing all your clothing at high temperature at the end of the trip—you can never be too safe!

What's the food like?

The breakfasts on this trip are continental-style and usually consist of a hot drink along with bread and jam. Picnic lunches are usually fantastic and plentiful, varying from sandwiches to local meats & cheeses to pasta or lentil salad and a piece of fruit. Dinners are also usually excellent—hearty, but basic—3-course meals, perfect after a hard day in the mountains. If you’re a vegetarian —a love of omelettes will help see you through this trip. Corsican mountain gîtes have not yet fully grasped the concept of vegetarian food, and you will almost always be served an omelette, with varying accompaniments. Sometimes you will be offered fish, so please remember to tell us if that’s okay for you upon booking. Your guides will do their best to ask for different dishes, but there are no promises. It might be a good idea to bring along some nuts and extra snacks. This trip is not suitable for vegans or those with other more specific dietary requirements.

What about luggage delivery?

Luggage is delivered on all nights apart from two, as those locations are not accessible by vehicle. This means that you have to carry your overnight kit (including sleeping bag) for four days. Please bring just one bag for transportation, and a backpack (35-40L). If you need two bags (it’s not possible to leave a bag in Calvi or Bastia, unless you’re planning on returning there at the end of the trip), then just let us know —there’s usually a supplement of $125.

What about money and resupplies along the way?

You will need money for lunch in Calvi, and dinners in Calvi, Corte, and Porte Vecchio (30-40 euros per dinner is sufficient). For other drinks and snacks, you’ll need around 10-15 euros per day. Bring your spending money in cash in euros , as cards are not accepted in the refuges, and there will be no exchange facilities throughout the trip. Bottled water, wine, beer, and soft drinks are available at almost all of the refuges, and you might find that hot weather makes you consume more cans of soft drinks than normally. Tipping your guide is optional, and it’s the accepted way of saying thank you for good service. Please remember that it is voluntary and should only be done if you were pleased with the service. The amount is entirely up to you. The guides are all paid fairly.

What's the weather like?

In general, you can expect it to be pretty hot and normally clear. The snow should have melted by late June, and July is the hottest month with the least amount of rainfall, though June, August, and September are also relatively dry as well. The temperature can range from around 5°C to around 30°C (although in July it can reach 36°C). It’s generally hot and dry, but due to the mountainous nature of the terrain, it’s not uncommon to have sudden thunder storms, harsh winds, heavy rain, hail, and sometimes even snow, so it’s important to be prepared for every eventuality.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For this trek, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is 10:1. It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The cost does not decrease as the group grows. Trekking the GR20 in Corsica can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to your GR20 adventure in Corsica, fly into Bastia-Poretta Airport (BIA) . Make sure to arrive before 3 pm, as that’s when the group transfer departs from Bastia to the seaside town of Calvi. It’s also worth checking out flights going directly to Calvi Airport (CLY) . If you won’t make the group transfer from Bastia Airport, contact your guides in time so they can make arrangements.

Safety measures and insurance

Travel and medical/rescue insurance is mandatory on this tour. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible , simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

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Guided GR20 Corsica hiking tour in France

Corsica | France

Trekking the Full GR20 in Corsica

14 days | 5.00

From $5,885 ()

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The infamous GR20 is often regarded as the toughest trek in Europe—are you sure you’re up to the task? This 180-kilometer trail (110 miles) meanders across the jagged spine of Corsica’s mountains, revealing spectacular scenery, million-dollar views, and your unrelenting spirit. Scrambling, exposed sections, steep drops, chain and wire-assisted climbs—the GR20 will keep testing your limits over two weeks of long and challenging days. Having a professional International Mountain Guide by your side means having an extra degree of safety, detouring to unparalleled gems that most hikers miss out on, and getting the best possible accommodation. Ready to traverse this mythical long-distance trail reserved only for the boldest ones?

Adventure Highlights

Many ups and downs = spectacular views: Abundant vegetation, incredible scenery, and stunning wildlife throughout
Best possible accommodation: Enjoy a carefully selected assortment of hotels, gîtes, camping spots, and refuges
Magnet for experienced hikers: Attracting people from all over the world, finishing the GR20 is a huge feat for any thru-hiker

Duration

14 days

Season

June through October

Group size

Up to 10 people

The adventure, day by day

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Conquer steep ascents and plunging descents on this 180-km trail that follows the granite backbone of mountains that divide the island in two—many of which soar above 2,000 m above sea. Join your guide on the mighty GR20 trek from the north-west to the south-east of the island, starting your tour in the beautiful Calvi! This challenging adventure also includes luggage transfers, most meals (all breakfasts and lunches, most dinners) and a selection of the best accommodation available, providing you with all the comfort along the way.

Day 1: Arrival and Calvi

Your trip begins in the seaside town of Calvi—you can either fly in to Calvi or Bastia Airport. If you arrive at Bastia Airport anytime prior to 3 pm on Day 1, a two-hour group minibus transfer will take you to the seaside town of Calvi. Alternatively, you can also land in Calvi Airport if possible. Use the afternoon to either explore the lovely town of Calvi or go for a dip in the sea.

Accommodation: 3* hotel

Note: Feel free to fly in a day prior to your adventure—the choice of flights might be better and you can overnight in Bastia or Calvi the evening before Day 1. Your guide can gladly recommend accommodation for the night!

Day 2: Transfer to Calenzana, walk to Bonifatu

Take a short taxi journey to the village of Calenzana, the official starting point of the GR20. Today you have a shorter day, which is an excellent warm-up for the journey ahead, and it also provides you with fantastic views of the coast and surrounding villages. You can bathe in rock pools before tackling the final climb to Bonifatu.

Accommodation: Gîte
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 5.5 hours
Distance: 13.2 km / 8.2 miles
Elevation change: +654 m / +2,277 ft | -394 m / -1,293 ft

Day 3: Bonifatu — Haut Asco

A hiker on the Spasimata bridge in Corsica, France

An early start today brings you to a climb up the Cirque de Bonifatu, sheltered from the sun by lush woods. Once you reach the Carrozzu refuge, take a breather before tackling the famous Spasimata footbridge—a 30-meter long bridge hanging above a waterfall! Then grab onto the fixed cables and chains and work your way up the Spasimata slabs to arrive at the Muvrella (Corsican for mouflon) valley. You might even spot some mouflons! After Lac de Muvrella, a steep climb takes you to the Bocca di a Muvrella (2,000 m), followed by a short, but difficult section to your second pass, the Bocca di Stagnu (2,010 m). From here you can see the western coastline along with the mountains that guard the entrance to the Cirque de la Solitude. Tackle a very steep, partly scrambly descent down to the old ski station of Haut Asco (1,422 m).

Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 9 hours
Distance: 17.2 km / 10.6 miles
Elevation change: +1,548 m / +5,078 ft | -681 m / -2,234 ft

Day 4: Hau Asco — Bergeries to Vallone

Following a huge landslide in 2015, today’s route no longer takes the Cirque de la Solitude—it’s been closed by the park authorities, and it’s unlikely to open. So there’s a new route (making what used to be a tough day into an even tougher day) towards Monte Cinto, Corsica’s highest peak. Reach the remote Lac du Cinto and then continue up to a high pass, the Bocca Crucetta at 2,450 m. From here, you have a long descent to the Tighjettu refuge and down to the Bergeries de Vallone, an old shepherd’s hut with nearby rock pools for bathing.

Accommodation: Camping (tent provided there, you don’t have to carry it)
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 10-11 hours
Distance: 11.4 km / 7 miles
Elevation change: +1,264 m / +4,147 ft | -1,197 m / -3,930 ft

Day 5: Vallone — Castel di Vergio

Today starts with an easy stretch of walking through the laricio pine forest before it gets a bit more scambly in order to reach the Bocca di Foggialle, not far from the refuge Ciottulu di i Mori and at the foot of the impressive Paglia Orba peak. Great views span out here, both behind the Calacuccia Lake and in front of the Golo Valley. From here, wind your way down to the river Golo, perfect for a dip in some fantastic rock pools. Keep going down, follow the river for a while before traversing the forest to reach the Castel di Vergio, an old ski station where there’s a choice of a gîte or hotel, and a small shop.

Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 9 hours
Distance: 17.6 km / 10.9 miles
Elevation change: +860 m / +2,820 ft | -912 m / -2,992 ft

Day 6: Castel di Vergio — Refuge A. Sega

Another long day ahead, but today is especially beautiful as the scenery is starting to change. Climb up to Col St. Pierre (1,452 m) and make your way to the spectacular Lac de Nino (1,743 m). Surrounded by pizzones (little ponds surrounded by grassy meadows), it’s an ideal grazing area for horses, cattle, and wild pigs. After Lac de Nino, stop at the working goat farm of Vaccaja (1,621 m) before diverting from the GR20 to make your way to the Refuge de Sega. Rock pools make this a great location, and by being off-the-beaten-path you avoid the crowds.

Accommodation: Refuge
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 10 hours
Distance: 23km / 14.3 miles
Elevation change: +750 m / +2,460 ft | -970 m / -3,182 ft

Day 7: Refuge A. Sega — Tavignano Gorge to Corte

A shorter day allows you to take your time as you make your way down the beautiful Tavignano Gorge, with some great swimming spots, to the historic town of Corte. You should have a bit of time to explore the town and have a free evening tonight to eat out in a local restaurant.

Accommodation: 3* hotel
Meals: Breakfast and picnic lunch
Hiking: 5.5 hours
Distance: 13.5 km / 8.4 miles
Elevation change: +201 m / +660 ft | -959 m / -3,146 ft

Day 8: Vizzavona — Capanelle

You’ve now reached the southern section of the GR20! The walking becomes a bit easier as there is less scrambling and more chances to look at the views. Start with either a train journey or a private transfer to Vizzavona (up to 1 hour), where you will rejoin the GR20 and climb up to the Bocca Palmente (1,640 m) through shady beech and pine forests. There you are greeted with fantastic views to the coast and behind you to Monte d’Oro. Make your way past the Alzeta shepherds’ huts to the U Cardu ridge, from where you’ll see the Monte Renoso, tomorrow’s objective.

Accommodation: 3* hotel
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 6 hours
Distance: 15.1 km / 9.4 miles
Elevation change: +1,079 m / +3,540 ft | -335 m / -1,099 ft

Day 9: Monte Renoso — Col de Verde

Today you climb Monte Renoso—standing at 2,352 m, it’s the highest mountain in southern Corsica. It’s a true gem of a peak, with most people doing the GR20 missing out on it. Your guides claim the view from up there is their favorite of the whole trip: you can see both coasts, a great view of both coasts, a view of where you’ve been (Monte Cinto) and where you’re going (Incudine and Bavella). It’s a scenic climb, not too difficult (mainly walking rather than scrambling), with a steep descent down to the spectacular pozzine in the valley of I Pozzi. Make your way over to the plateau de Gialgone to rejoin the GR20, and reach Col de Verden in 2 hours. For those feeling tired today, you can skip climbing Monte Renoso and opt for an easier route.

Accommodation: Gîte
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 9 hours (or 5 without Monte Renoso)
Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
Elevation change: +841 m / +2,760 ft | -1,164 m / -3,818 ft OR +350 m / +1,148 ft | -620 m / -2,034 ft

Day 10: Col de Verde — Cozzano

Start the day with a steep climb up to a high ridge enroute to the Refuge de Prati. You’ll be able to see both coasts, and on a clear day, across the Ligurian Sea as far as the island of Elba. You’ve got a scrambling part then, with some exposed sections, until the Col de Laparo. Divert from the GR20 in order to avoid staying in overcrowded and uncomfortable huts, and stop at a privately-run gîte in the typical Corsican village of Cozzano.

Accommodation: Gîte
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 8-9 hours
Distance: 22.2 km / 13.7 miles
Elevation change: +987 m / +3,238 ft | -1,500 m / -4,921 ft

Day 11: Cozzano — Bassetta or Il Croce

Climb up through chestnut forest to rejoin the GR20, where you will reach the Arête a Mondi. Follow to the Punta d’Usciolu (1,815m), the Punta di a Scaddatta (1,834m) and finally to the Bocca di L’Agnonu (1,570m). The route criss-crosses through exciting notches along the ridge, and consists of around 2 hours of scrambling, exposed at times, offering wonderful views. Start your descent past the sheepfolds of Bassetta, and continue along to the gîte at Il Croce. It’s quite a long day, but continuing to Il Croce instead of staying at Bassetta makes our day a bit easier tomorrow. In case of bad weather, travel on a lower route via the village of Zicavo

Accommodation: Gîte or camping
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 9-10 hours
Distance: 18 km / 11.2 miles
Elevation change: +1,480 m / +4,855 ft | -740 m / -2,428 ft

Day 12: Il Croce — Bavella

Another long, but truly spectacular day. Climb up to the Col Incudine, from where you have views back towards Monte Cinto and Sardinia in front of you, along with Aiguilles de Bavella where you’re heading. From the col, it’s a very steep descent across slabs to the Refuge d’Asinau. A short easy section takes you through the woods before you make a diversion to tackle the Alpine variant of the GR20, through the heart of the Aiguilles de Bavella, a fantastic journey assisted by the occasional chain. In case of bad weather, take a transfer and do a shorter walk around Bavella.

Accommodation: Gîte
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 10 hours
Distance: 14.2 km / 8.8 miles
Elevation change: +1,066 m / +3,500 ft | -1,395 m / -4,575 ft

Day 13: Conca (endpoint) — Porto Vecchio

The final day is a lovely way to end the GR20, with incredible views across granite peaks before entering a beautiful pine forest. Reach the refuge de Paliri fairly early on, and from there, the scenery remains rugged all the way to the little village of Conca, the end point of the GR20. After a celebratory drink, take a short transfer to Porto Vecchio and your hotel for the night.

Accommodation: 3* hotel
Meals: Breakfast and picnic lunch
Hiking: 8 hours
Distance: 18 km / 11.1 miles
Elevation change: +655 m / +2,150 ft | -1,595 m / -5,232 ft

Day 14: Porto Vecchio — Figari Airport

Wake up early, have breakfast, and pack up! Your guides will transfer you from Porto Vecchio to Figari Airport whichever time suits you—it’s a 25 minute journey. If you’d like to extend your stay, just ask your guides for some recommendations.

Meals: Breakfast

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Trekking the Full GR20 in Corsica

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

5.00

Tom

International Mountain Leader & Ski Guide

Tom is a qualified International Mountain Leader, Wilderness First Responder and Ski Guide. Based in Les Houches, Tom guides snowshoeing and trekking trips in the Chamonix area, but also further afield, such as in Japan. When not guiding, Tom can be found climbing up, skiing or biking down alpine peaks. He also makes eco-friendly wooden skies—Tom is the founder of the award-winning eco-ski company, Idris Skis.

5.00

Ian

International Mountain Leader

Ian is an International Mountain Leader and First Aid Trainer. He’s lived in Switzerland since 2003, where he also runs a B&B with his wife. Ian’s favorite trekking places are Corsica and the Dolomites, where he enjoys the food, the wine, and the beaches. Ian is the director of the British Association of International Mountain Leaders and the current president of their international association, the UIMLA.

5.00

Gary

International Mountain Leader

Gary is a qualified International Mountain Leader based in Argelès, in the Pyrenees, and leads snowshoeing and trekking trips in the Chamonix area and beyond. He’s also an accredited Duke of Edinburgh Award assessor, often training and evaluating Jura snowshoe groups. Known for his great sense of humor and thoughtful, philosophical outlook, Gary is a natural with both adult and youth groups—an inspiring guide and a patient teacher. With years of experience leading trips around the world, anyone would be lucky to have Gary is their guide!

5.00

Charlie

International Mountain Leader & Wilderness First Responder

Charlie has led trips across Europe, as well as to Kilimanjaro, India, Morocco, Bolivia, and Nepal in recent years. A qualified Mountain Leader and certified Wilderness First Responder, Charlie is also known for his popular Chamonix Blog and his work as a commentator for international climbing competitions. With a sharp sense of humor and serious climbing skills, he’s most often found guiding high-altitude mountaineering adventures rather than the more relaxed treks.

5.00

Becki

International Mountain Leader, BASI ski instructor

Becki is a highly experienced International Mountain Leader with a passion for guiding people through some of the world’s most inspiring landscapes. She’s led walking, climbing, skiing, canoeing, and kayaking adventures, and even caving trips! Her international guiding experience spans mountain expeditions and treks in Costa Rica, Ecuador, Morocco, Bolivia, and China, as well as trail running and trekking in the European Alps. Becki brings energy, deep knowledge, and a love of the outdoors to every trip she leads.

5.00

Boi

International Mountain Leader & Ski Instructor

Originally from Barcelona, Boi is a qualified International Mountain Leader and ski instructor. He’s currently working toward becoming a UIAGM mountain guide. After earning a degree in Biology, Boi set off to New Zealand to hike and climb, but a chance visit to Chamonix changed everything—he fell in love with the mountains and never looked back. Today, he splits his year between summers in the Alps and winters in the Catalan Pyrenees.

5.00

Cam

International Mountain Leader

Cam is a qualified International Mountain Leader who’s been guiding hikers through the mountains of Europe for the past seven years. His favorite regions include the Italian Dolomites, the Spanish Picos de Europa, and the Mont Blanc Massif—each offering incredible scenery, rich history, and diverse wildlife. Cam spends his summers based in Chamonix and winters in the Scottish Highlands. Outside of guiding, he’s passionate about climbing, mountaineering, and ski touring.

5.00

Emily

International Mountain Leader

Emily is a qualified International Mountain Leader with years of guiding experience. Based in Chamonix, she knows the Tour du Mont Blanc inside out but also thrives on more far-flung adventures, having recently led trips to Alaska, Norway, Kilimanjaro, and Nepal. Alongside guiding, she works full-time as an English and Geography teacher—though how she manages to stay so fit remains a mystery! In her spare time, she’s out trail running, road biking, or ski touring, and recently took on both the CCC and the Étape du Tour.

5.00

Fran

International Mountain Leader

Fran is a qualified International Mountain Leader with over 10 years of guiding experience across the Alps and her home terrain in Scotland. She has a particular love for the Tour de Monte Rosa and the Walker’s Haute Route. Her adventures have taken her as far as Antarctica, where she’s worked at a British polar research station—and in summer, she’s often spotted kayaking among penguins. Fran also guides in Iceland, works as a photographer, and conducts biological surveys in the Cairngorms. A climber, skier, paddler, and mountain biker with an MSc in Sustainable Mountain Development, Fran simply loves being in the mountains and sharing that joy with others.

5.00

Jack

International Mountain Leader

Jack is a qualified International Mountain Leader whose love for the Alps began during his university years. Before his Computer Science degree had even settled, he was off to Chamonix to develop his mountaineering and skiing skills. Seven years on, Jack has hiked, run, skied, and climbed his way across the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps, with time also spent exploring the Scottish Highlands. He even knows his way around a cheese board, thanks to two years in a Savoyard kitchen. Now splitting his time between Chamonix and Athens, Jack is just as happy guiding you to the perfect trail as he is to the best pizza.

5.00

Jen

International Mountain Leader

Jen is a qualified International Mountain Leader and yoga teacher based in Chamonix. Her love for the Alps began during a university climbing trip, and after earning a Geography degree, she spent several years travelling, volunteering with conservation projects, and freelancing in marketing to fund her adventures. Since settling in Chamonix in 2015, Jen has combined her passion for guiding with a strong commitment to the environment. An enthusiastic climber, skier, and trail runner (often trying to keep pace with her dog), Jen brings infectious energy and deep mountain knowledge to every trip.

5.00

Joel

International Mountain Leader

Joel is a qualified International Mountain Leader based in Chamonix. Just weeks after completing his Finance degree in 2011, he swapped the Welsh hills for the towering peaks of the Alps—and never looked back. Since then, he’s been exploring every corner of the Mont Blanc Massif. In winter, you’ll find him ski touring or chasing steep descents; in summer, he’s often out trail running or mountaineering.

5.00

Lolo

International Mountain Leader

Lolo grew up in the “pretty but flat” heart of central France, but everything changed after a childhood winter trip to the Alps sparked a lifelong love for the mountains. After school, she explored Asia, North Africa, Australia, and spent a year working in Canada—capped off with a U.S. national parks road trip. Back in France, she became an International Mountain Leader and now shares her deep knowledge of mountain flora, fauna, and French culture on every trip. Whether guiding school groups or adult trekkers, Lolo brings enthusiasm and warmth. Off-duty, she enjoys skiing, diving, yoga, Himalayan trekking, and even beekeeping.

5.00

Marit

International Mountain Leader

Marit is originally from the Netherlands, where her passion for the outdoors began with ski trips to Austria. That love deepened during her university years in North Wales, where she took up hiking and rock climbing. Her adventures have since taken her across the Alps and beyond. Now based in the French Alps and teaching at an international school in Geneva, Marit is a qualified International Mountain Leader who joins the Cloud 9 team during school holidays. With a keen interest in alpine history, geology, and flora, she shares her knowledge with enthusiasm—and in four languages, no less!

5.00

Nicole

International Mountain Leader

Nicole, originally from France’s Vosges region, moved to Chamonix in 1984 with her husband, a mountain guide with the PGHM rescue service. Now based in Sallanches with their three sons, she’s been working as a qualified International Mountain Leader since 1996. In summer, Nicole leads both classic routes like the Tour du Mont Blanc and hidden gems like the Gran Paradiso and Tour des Fiz. In winter, she guides snowshoeing trips around Megève. A passionate hiker, skier, and cyclist, Nicole also travels widely—favourites include Nepal, Corsica, and Réunion Island—and spends every autumn harvesting grapes with friends for winemaking.

5.00

Pablo

International Mountain Leader and High Mountain Guide

Pablo, originally from Spain, is both a qualified International Mountain Leader and High Mountain Guide with a loyal following of returning clients. He moved to the Alps to fully embrace his passion for the mountains and has since built a reputation as an exceptional guide and leader. Fluent in Spanish and comfortable in both English and French, Pablo brings experience, enthusiasm, and a warm, multilingual approach to every trip.

5.00

Richard

International Mountain Leader

Richard is a qualified International Mountain Leader with over nine years of guiding and instructing experience. After leaving the Fire Service, he turned his full attention to the outdoors, exploring the mountains of France, Italy, the UK, Austria, and the Canadian Rockies. Rich has a passion for weather, the natural environment, and outdoor photography—interests that have even taken him storm-chasing in the USA. When he's not in the mountains, Rich serves as a Search Technician for Lowland Rescue and an Emergency First Responder. In his downtime, you'll find him climbing or out on the trails running.

5.00

Robin

International Mountain Leader

Robin is a qualified International Mountain Leader with expedition experience across Africa, America, Asia, and Europe. A natural explorer, he's driven by curiosity and a deep appreciation for the diverse cultures and landscapes he encounters. When he's not in the mountains or deep in the jungle, Robin lives life at a different pace—navigating the UK's inland waterways aboard his bright yellow narrowboat, Goldilocks.

5.00

Susanna

International Mountain Leader

Suze has lived and worked in the Alps for over 10 years and is a passionate mountaineer, trail runner, road cyclist, skier, and yogi. Based in Chamonix since 2011, she is a fully qualified International Mountain Leader. Suze’s love for skiing has taken her around the world, and in 2014, she organized a ski mountaineering expedition to climb peaks in Tajikistan. A dedicated bird watcher and nature lover, Suze enjoys everything from wandering through magical forests to tackling steep alpine ski descents. With her vast experience, she’s as comfortable in the mountains as she is immersed in nature.

5.00

Emma

International Mountain Leader, Mountain Bike Leader, Nordic Ski Instructor

Emma has been leading treks and expeditions ever since 2005. She's led trips all over the world, but Corsica, Nepal, and the Alps remain her top three trekking destinations and Tour du Mont Blanc trek her favorite route. In 2009, she made the first ever ski descent of Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain in the world. Emma is fluent in French, Russian, and Spanish.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (3 reviews)

Karen L.

|July 2025

GR20 was everything you would expect. Long days, challenging hikes with amazing views!

Erric Reynolds

Cloud 9 planned everything for our group: Food, lodging, baggage transportation and excellent hiking plans. The food and service in the hotels was great and staffs were friendly and helpful! I would highly recommend Cloud 9 for anyone planning a trip.

Jessica Hope

What an incredible experience. Our guide was fantastic, teaching our kids so many things along the way. Highly recommend!

Show all reviews

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, International Mountain Leader with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 14-day GR-20 Corsica trekking tour
  - All accommodation (details in the itinerary)
  - All breakfasts and packed lunches
  - Most dinners (except on Day 1, 7, and 13)
  - All transportation during the tour
  - Fixed-time airport transfer from Bastia Airport to Calvi on Day 1 & from Porto Vecchio to Figari on Day 14
  - Luggage transfers on all but 2 nights
Not included:
- - Transportation to Corsica
  - Dinners on Day 1, 7, and 13
  - Sleeping bag
  - Personal drinks and snacks
  - Travel and medical/rescue insurance — mandatory
  - Guide gratuities — optional
Should you need to make any changes to your booking after confirmation, please be aware that a 100 GBP administrative fee applies to each modification.
Your guides firmly believe the GR-20 in Corsica deserves its reputation of being the hardest trek in Europe. It’s a very tough trek with long walking days in succession, meaning that you must be very fit and already have experience with high mountain hiking over several days. It’s a tougher walk than most people expect.

There’s also a lot of scrambling and on occasion you will need to use fixed chains and ladders, so it’s not suitable for those with vertigo. You’ll come across numerous large drops, so you have to be sure that you’re not going to make a clumsy slip. Some ascents are very long, some descents very steep, so that’s something to consider if you have sore knees. Walking poles come in very handy on the GR20, as they reduce the shock on your legs.

The GR-20 is a very remote trek, making it difficult to “sit out” a day if you’re feeling tired. All days are long (some 9-10 hours of hiking) and you can’t go too slowly. If you do not arrive fully fit and geared up, you will not only be jeopardizing your own chances of completing the route, but also the enjoyment and safety of other people. Slow hikers add several hour to a day, and while this can usually be accommodated on many other trips, that’s not the case with the GR20.

If you’re thinking of joining the GR20 trek, make sure you are ready for two weeks of very long and challenging days. Your guides put together this trip in a way that they organize your breakfasts, lunches, and most dinners, and instead of rustic mountain huts, you will stay at hotels and privately-run gîtes—with your luggage delivered daily.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Backpack large enough to carry things you’ll need throughout the day — 35-45L, anything bigger will be too heavy (also make sure that you can fit everything you need for an overnight stay including your sleeping bag)
  - Kit bag — for main luggage which is transported, please try to keep the weight to 15 kg or below
  - Dry bags / plastic bags — to keep kit dry
  - Waterproof jacket and trousers — as light as possible
  - Hiking poles — optional, but recommended
  - Hiking boots or shoes — make sure they’re in good condition before embarking, as there are no gear show along the way
  - Week’s worth hiking clothing
    
    Trekking trousers (bring something lightweight)
    
    Shorts
    
    T-shirts (wicking t-shirts are better than cotton)
    
    Mid-layer (fleece jacket is good)
    
    Spare clothes for layering
  - Socks, underwear
  - Warm hat and gloves
  - Swimsuit
  - Travel towel (not provided in gites)
  - Flip flops / crocs
  - Sleeping bag
  - Sleeping bag liner — comfort rating of around 3-5°C , a lightweight one weighs around 1kg or less
  - Tupperware box
  - Fork, spoon, or spork
  - Wash kit
  - Water bottle and camelbak — camelbak is recommended and can come in really handy on this trip, but it’s best to take both (make sure you have the capacity to carry at least 4 litres of water)
  - Sunhat and sunglasses
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight — a lightweight one
  - Insurance documents
  - Basic first aid kit — the guide will carry a large first aid kit, but for emergencies only, make sure you bring painkillers, blister treatment and plasters, rehydration salts (dioralite), diarrhea treatment (immodium), antiseptic cream, antihistamine cream or tablets + any personal medication you normally take
Here’s the optional gear:
- - Earplugs — indispensable in dorms
  - Penknife
  - Snacks — dried fruit, nuts, energy bars…
  - Walking trainers — there are a few days where you might prefer to wear walking trainers in order to give your feet a break from boots
  - Travel pillow
  - Pillow case
  - Thermarest — only needed for the one night you camp, so it’s not really necessary
  - Water purifying tablets
  - Antibacterial handwash
  - Buff
  - Camera
  - Book
  - Mobile phone
  - Travel kettle and tea bags
  - Multi-plug adapter
  - Power pack
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Generally speaking, accommodation on the GR20 is notoriously bad. Usually you’d stay in overcrowded and “rustic” mountain huts, but for this trip, your guides have carefully selected an assortment of hotels and privately-run gîtes (traditional rental homes). This makes the trip and overnights extremely comfortable in comparison to other companies. Still, do not expect luxury—the accommodation is basic, simple, and clean, and your luggage will be delivered daily. This is a massive bonus of this guided trip, as you don’t have to carry with you 40-lbs backpacks.

You will spend…
- - 5 nights in good hotels with ensuite facilities (twin or double rooms, very occasionally a triple)
  - 6 nights in privately-run gîtes in mixed-dormitory accommodation (with showers and toilets)
  - 1 night in a spectacularly-located mountain refuge with 6-8 people per room (with showers and toilets)
  - 1 night at a shepherds hut where you camp (simple toilet facilities and 1 shower)
In your guides’ experience, gîtes and refuges all have hot showers—in many years of doing trips, they’ve only had 1 or 2 cold showers. But the great thing of these two places that are most likely culprits of not having hot water is that they’re next to fantastic rock pools, so most people prefer to swim in the pools at the end of the day.

Overall, your guides have really chosen the best of the best for this route. One of the main reasons that your guides avoid huts is that they’re renowned for bed bugs—they will never stay at any establishment where they have been reported (unlike other operators). Still, your guides do recommend washing all your clothing at high temperature at the end of the trip—you can never be too safe!
The breakfasts on this trip are continental-style and usually consist of a hot drink along with bread and jam.

Picnic lunches are usually fantastic and plentiful, varying from sandwiches to local meats & cheeses to pasta or lentil salad and a piece of fruit.

Dinners are also usually excellent—hearty, but basic—3-course meals, perfect after a hard day in the mountains.

If you’re a vegetarian—a love of omelettes will help see you through this trip. Corsican mountain gîtes have not yet fully grasped the concept of vegetarian food, and you will almost always be served an omelette, with varying accompaniments. Sometimes you will be offered fish, so please remember to tell us if that’s okay for you upon booking. Your guides will do their best to ask for different dishes, but there are no promises. It might be a good idea to bring along some nuts and extra snacks.

This trip is not suitable for vegans or those with other more specific dietary requirements.
Luggage is delivered on all nights apart from two, as those locations are not accessible by vehicle. This means that you have to carry your overnight kit (including sleeping bag) for four days.

Please bring just one bag for transportation, and a backpack (35-40L). If you need two bags (it’s not possible to leave a bag in Calvi or Bastia, unless you’re planning on returning there at the end of the trip), then just let us know—there’s usually a supplement of $125.
You will need money for lunch in Calvi, and dinners in Calvi, Corte, and Porte Vecchio (30-40 euros per dinner is sufficient). For other drinks and snacks, you’ll need around 10-15 euros per day. Bring your spending money in cash in euros, as cards are not accepted in the refuges, and there will be no exchange facilities throughout the trip.

Bottled water, wine, beer, and soft drinks are available at almost all of the refuges, and you might find that hot weather makes you consume more cans of soft drinks than normally.

Tipping your guide is optional, and it’s the accepted way of saying thank you for good service. Please remember that it is voluntary and should only be done if you were pleased with the service. The amount is entirely up to you. The guides are all paid fairly.
In general, you can expect it to be pretty hot and normally clear. The snow should have melted by late June, and July is the hottest month with the least amount of rainfall, though June, August, and September are also relatively dry as well.

The temperature can range from around 5°C to around 30°C (although in July it can reach 36°C). It’s generally hot and dry, but due to the mountainous nature of the terrain, it’s not uncommon to have sudden thunder storms, harsh winds, heavy rain, hail, and sometimes even snow, so it’s important to be prepared for every eventuality.
Group sizes and prices:
- - For this trek, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is 10:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate.
  - The cost does not decrease as the group grows.
Trekking the GR20 in Corsica can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
To get to your GR20 adventure in Corsica, fly into Bastia-Poretta Airport (BIA). Make sure to arrive before 3 pm, as that’s when the group transfer departs from Bastia to the seaside town of Calvi. It’s also worth checking out flights going directly to Calvi Airport (CLY).

If you won’t make the group transfer from Bastia Airport, contact your guides in time so they can make arrangements.
Travel and medical/rescue insurance is mandatory on this tour. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits

You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Cancellations

Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
- In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
- For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 0-89 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Flexible
- In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
- For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 60-89 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Super Flexible
- In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
- For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.

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