GR20 Trail
Corse
The GR20 Trail, also known locally as Sentier de Grande Randonnée 20, is a demanding long-distance hiking path that traverses the mountainous spine of Corsica, running approximately 180 kilometers from Calenzana in the north to Conca in the south. It is renowned for its significant elevation gain of around 12,000 meters and rugged terrain, making it one of the most difficult GR routes in France and widely regarded as one of the top hiking trails worldwide. The trail is divided into two main sections: the northern part, characterized by steep and rocky paths, and the southern part, which is slightly easier but can be hotter during summer months. Along the route, hikers find mountain huts called refuges that provide shelter and varying levels of accommodation and food services. Camping is only permitted near these refuges, not along the trail itself. The GR20 attracts between 10,000 and 20,000 hikers annually, many completing the entire trail in about 15 days, though some experienced hikers do it in fewer days. The trail is well marked and crosses the Parc naturel régional de Corse, offering stunning views of Corsica's natural landscapes. Vizzavona serves as a convenient midpoint due to its train station, allowing hikers to start or finish either half of the trail and access nearby towns. The trail was developed in the 1960s and officially approved in 1971, with continual improvements and eco-responsible measures implemented to manage its popularity. Its combination of challenging terrain, breathtaking scenery, and cultural significance makes the GR20 a bucket-list adventure for seasoned hikers.
ヒント: The best time to hike the GR20 is between mid-June and early November when weather conditions are generally favorable. Hikers should prepare for a demanding mountain trek with proper equipment and physical fitness. It is advisable to book accommodations at refuges in advance, especially during peak season, as spaces are limited. Camping is only allowed near refuges, so plan accordingly. The trail can be tackled in two parts, north and south, with Vizzavona as a convenient access point. Be aware that weather can change rapidly, and certain sections may require technical gear such as crampons or ice axes if snow persists early in the season. Carry sufficient food and water, and consider the trail's difficulty when planning daily distances.
興味深い事実
- •The GR20 is considered one of the toughest long-distance trails in Europe due to its steep ascents and rocky terrain.
- •Approximately 10,000 to 20,000 hikers complete the trail annually, with some completing it in just 5 to 10 days.
- •The trail is divided into northern and southern sections, with Vizzavona as a key midpoint accessible by train.
- •Camping is strictly regulated and permitted only near mountain huts called refuges.
- •The men's speed record for completing the trail is 30 hours and 25 minutes, set by Lambert Santelli in 2021.
- •The women's speed record is 35 hours and 50 minutes, held by Anne-Lise Rousset since 2022.
- •The trail was officially homologated in 1971 and opened fully in 1975.
歴史
The GR20 Trail's origins trace back to the early 1950s when hiking routes in Corsica began to be documented.
In 1965, Guy Degos and Marcel Schlück proposed a challenging mountain route traversing the island's central ridge.
Michel Fabrikant surveyed and mapped the trail, leading to the first markings in 1970 and official approval by the national hiking committee in 1971.
The initial infrastructure included wooden refuges to support hikers.
The trail officially opened in 1975 and has since undergone continuous development, including the addition of new refuges and eco-friendly initiatives to handle increasing visitor numbers.
It has grown to become the most frequented and difficult GR path in France, with a rich history of mountain hiking culture on Corsica.
場所ガイド
Northern Section
The northern section runs from Calenzana to Vizzavona and is noted for its steep, rocky terrain and challenging ascents. It includes key stops like Ortu di Piobbu, Carozzu, and Manganu refuges, offering dramatic mountain views and technical hiking sections.
Southern Section
Stretching from Vizzavona to Conca, the southern section is slightly less demanding but can be hotter during summer. It features refuges such as E Capenelle, I Paliri, and the recently added Matalza, providing varied landscapes and breathtaking vistas.
Mountain Refuges (Refuges)
Scattered along the trail, these mountain huts provide shelter, meals, and sometimes limited services. Accommodation standards vary between refuges. Camping is allowed only near these huts, not along the trail itself.
Vizzavona
A crucial midpoint with a train station that allows hikers to start or finish either section of the trail. It connects to major Corsican towns such as Bastia, Ajaccio, and Corte, facilitating logistics and transport.
