Advanced Petit GR20

This long initial climb takes you directly from the narrow streets of Calenzana into the mountains. As the path winds its way up above the Balagne hills, olive groves, terraces and the scent of the maquis gradually disappear. Further up, the forest closes in around you, offering glimpses of the bay and the surrounding mountains through the trees. The day ends on a rocky crest, not far from the hills beneath Monte Corona.

From the village, the route continues along paved streets and stairs before joining a stony mule track through dense shrubbery. After a while, the path steepens as it winds through the scented maquis towards Bocca u Corsu, the first vantage point overlooking the Bay of Calvi. The ascent continues through a pine forest to Arghjova's terrace and then along the ridge to Bocca à U Saltu (1,250 m). Beyond the grassy col, the path traverses a challenging section and ascends towards Bocca à U Bazzichellu (1,486 m).

As you near the end, the rocky terrain gives way to scattered pine trees and small grassy terraces. The refuge is located just beyond a bend, perched on a hillside with sweeping views back to the Balagne region. It is the perfect place to rest, enjoy the evening colours and plan your next adventure.

This high route connects two rocky refuges via a winding mountain ridge. From the grassy terrace of the first refuge, the ascent is initially gentle before rising steeply towards a chain of passes. Once you have climbed above the last pines, you will be rewarded with views of Punta Innominata (1,986 m) and the distant bulk of Monte Cinto (2,706 m). After reaching the highest point of the main ridge, the route continues downhill through darker forests to the second refuge.

From there, a cairned path climbs through twisted pines and granite slabs. A clear spring and scattered stone ruins provide an opportunity for a brief rest before the long ascent. The path then tightens into zigzags on the ridge below Bocca di Pisciaghja/Piccaia (2,012 m), offering deep views into the Bonifatu forest, before traversing airy balconies. After a rocky scramble section, you cross Bocca di l'Innominata, located between Punta Innominata (1,986 m) and Punta Ghialla (2,085 m).

The descent begins with rocky steps, which then soften into earthen paths winding through tall pines. Gradually, the sound of running water grows louder as you cross small streams and shaded gullies. A final contouring track leads to a grassy clearing, amongst the trees of which you will see stone buildings and tent platforms. Here, you can cool your feet in the nearby stream and watch the evening mist drift along the valley.