Trekking in Corsica – My adventure on the GR20
Day 1: Arrival in Ajaccio – The beginning of a journey
As soon as I land in Ajaccio, I feel it: that familiar tingle that spreads through me when a real adventure is about to begin. I've arrived in Corsica, ready to hike the legendary GR20 – one of the most challenging long-distance trails in Europe. My first destination: Calenzana. The bus journey is long, the ascent demanding, but I'm full of energy. It's hot, my backpack is already quite heavy, but my gaze sweeps across the Corsican landscape – wild, rugged, and beautiful. Here we go.
Day 2: From Calenzana to Ortu di u Piobbu – A first taste
The first real day of hiking begins early. The path is steep, and sweat pours down my face. The climb to Bocca au Saltu pushes me to my limits, but when I reach the top, it's all forgotten. The view of Corsica's rugged mountains is simply spectacular. Arriving at the Ortu di u Piobbu mountain hut, I feel like a true adventurer. The hut is basic but bustling with life – trekking enthusiasts from all over the world, stories around the fire, tired legs, and happy faces.
Day 3: From Ortu di u Piobbu to Carozzu – experiencing freedom
The route doesn't get any easier. It leads along rocky paths that demand my full concentration. But that's precisely what makes it so appealing. I'm completely in the moment. All around me is nature – and now and then the laughter of other hikers. The Refuge de Carozzu is my destination, and although my legs are tired, my heart is light. Out here, only the here and now matters. I share the evening with like-minded people – stories, pasta, a starry sky.
Day 4: From Carozzu to Asco Stagnu – Between forests and water
Today is a more tranquil day. The path leads through dense forests, accompanied by the sound of clear streams. I take my time, pause, and dip my hands into the cold water. It's less strenuous, and I enjoy simply drifting along. Sometimes the forests seem a bit monotonous, but that, too, has its own magic. When I arrive in Asco Stagnu, I feel grounded. Pure nature—exactly what I was looking for.
Day 5: From Asco Stagnu to Auberge U Vallone – Summit dreams and stories
It's getting more challenging again. The altitude is taking its toll, but the views make up for every effort. The Corsican mountains are rugged, wild, and somehow majestic. At the Auberge U Vallone, I find not just accommodation, but genuine community. We sit together, share our experiences, laugh, and exchange tips. Corsican hospitality is warm, honest, and heartfelt. I'm grateful to be here.
Day 6: From Auberge U Vallone to Haute Asco – On the roof of Corsica
The wind is whistling, the clouds are moving fast, the peaks are sharply jutting into the sky. I'm high above it all. The trail to Haute Asco is challenging, but I've found my rhythm. Step by step, breath by breath. Reaching the top, a new world unfolds. Haute Asco is a little paradise – peace, vastness, clarity. I sit on a rock, let my gaze wander, and am simply grateful.
Day 7: From Haute Asco to Tighjettu – summit bliss and mountain hut charm
The Col de Tighjettu awaits – steep, rocky, challenging. My body is tired, but my mind is alert. I fight my way upwards, feeling every muscle, every step. And then I'm there – at the top. The view takes my breath away. I stand between heaven and earth. At the Refuge de Tighjettu, I'm among friends again. Strangers who, on this journey, become companions. We share stories, experiences, and the pride of having made it this far.
Day 8: From Tighjettu to Castel di Vergio – The goal in sight
The final leg. My legs are heavy, my back aches, but my heart is light. I'm almost there. Every step brings me closer to my goal. When I reach Castel di Vergio, a wave of emotions washes over me. I've done it. Eight days on the GR20, eight days of challenge, freedom, nature, and encounters. I look back on wild mountain trails, simple huts, clear nights. And I know: This adventure will stay with me forever.
My conclusion – Corsica has captured my heart.
Trekking the GR20 was no easy journey. The heat, the weight of the backpack, the steep climbs – all of it challenged me. But that's precisely what made it so special. I felt my limits and pushed them a little further. I met people who, just like me, harbor a yearning for adventure. And I discovered an island that is wilder, more beautiful, and more authentic than I could ever have imagined.
Corsica changed me. I set off with a goal and returned with countless stories, new friends, and a heart full of gratitude. This trek was more than just hiking – it was a true adventure.
