Calenzana, the starting point in the north, is close to Calvi and is easily accessible from the “Sainte Catherine” airport. Calvi can also be reached by ferry (Marseille, Toulon and Nice). There’s a bus transfer to Calenzana. Another option is to use the Bastia airport (approx. 10 km south of the town centre). A shuttle bus brings you to the station where you can then catch a bus or train to Calvi.

Conca, where the trail ends in the south, is close to Porto Vecchio. The ‘gîte d’étappe’ in Conca runs a daily bus service to Porte Vecchio. From here, there are buses to Bastia and Ajaccio.

Our own experience

We flew from the airport of Lille Lesquin to Calvi, with a stop in Nice. Our return flight was from Ajaccio, with a stop in Marseille. French domestic flights are so far cheaper than flights between 2 countries.

Halfway

Vizzavona is situated on the Ajaccio-Bastia railway line.

When

The best times to hike the GR20 are either the second half of June or the first half of September. By the end of September, most huts are closed or no longer offer supplies. During July and August, it can be very hot even in the mountains and the path becomes quite crowded. From October to the end of May, parts of the path are still covered in snow, which makes it more hazardous. In addition, you would need to take all your supplies with you because the huts are not staffed during these months. In the depths of winter (February – April), experienced cross-country skiers can also follow the path (accompanied by a mountain guide). The winter variant of the GR20-North is known as Alta Strada.