Preparing for the GR20
The legendary Corsican trek, training, kit & advice
Dreaming of the GR20 but worried you are not experienced enough in mountain hiking? Do not panic. The GR20 is a breathtaking adventure: this great Corsican traverse is known as one of the most demanding long-distance paths in Europe, and also one of the most beautiful.
Why “GR20”?
“GR” stands for “Grande Randonnée”. The original name of the GR20 is Fra Li Monti, “across the mountains”. And why “20”? In the eighteenth century French departments were numbered in alphabetical order: 20 was the number for Corsica. In 1976 it gave way to 2A (Corse-du-Sud) and 2B (Haute-Corse), but the Corsican GR, opened back in 1975, kept its name.
In 11 days: taking your time
On the long format, the aim is contemplation: taking in the landscapes, meeting other hikers and enjoying long lunch breaks around Corsican food in the shepherds’ huts.
In 11 days or fewer: endurance
This format calls for specific training, and endurance is essential. We recommend regular sporting activity, with the following beforehand:
- Several hikes of 40 km, so you can take the doubled 30 km stages in your stride.
- Hikes over broken ground (scree, loose stone) to build experience.
- Hikes with more than 2,000 m of ascent, to prepare your legs and your feet.
In 7 days or fewer: performance
Here the aim is no longer contemplation but performance. You move to an ultralight rucksack: a one-litre bottle and rain protection, the whole thing under 2 kg to gain speed and hold the pace, a long way from classic hiking packs that can reach 18 kg once loaded.