Hiking and Singing in Balagne, Corsica

The journey begins with a transfer from Corte to Col de Vergio. The day’s trek includes the ascent of two exceptional peaks, Punta A Cuccula and Punta e Cricche, offering panoramic views of Corsica’s highest summits at over 2,000 meters. After the climb, the route descends into the Lonca Valley, home to one of the most beautiful refuges in the park, far from the GR20.

Along the way, hikers may encounter Corsican mouflons on the ancient High Road of Transhumance. The trek covers a distance of five to six hours with an elevation gain of 570 meters and a descent of 950 meters.

The night is spent sleeping under the stars among Laricio pines, in an authentic wilderness setting.

The second day follows the Transhumance Path to Bocca Guagnarola or the wild Terroce Valley sheepfolds. A ridge crossing offers stunning views of the Gulf of Porto and the Scandola Nature Reserve.

As an optional highlight, hikers can ascend Punta e Ghjarghjole for a breathtaking sunset or save the climb for the following morning. The day involves four to five hours of walking, with an elevation gain between 950 and 1,100 meters and a descent ranging from 50 to 200 meters.

The night is spent under the stars at Corsica’s highest refuge, Ciottulu di i Mori.

The trail leads down through the Vallon de Tulla, following the GR20. An optional detour allows hikers to visit the Pozzines de Catamalzi, traditional sheepfolds, and the stunning Radule Cascade.

This section of the trek lasts approximately four hours, with a descent of 700 meters and a climb of 200 meters.

Accommodation for the night is available at the Radule sheepfolds or at Castel di Vergio, with options ranging from tents to cottages and hotel upgrades.

The hike continues along the GR20 to the breathtaking Lake Ninu, a serene spot surrounded by ancient water holes.

The route crosses the Camputile Plateau, a traditional transhumance area where Corsican shepherds have guided their livestock for generations. This stretch takes four to five hours, with an elevation gain of 600 meters and a descent of 400 meters.

The night is spent at the Vaccaghja sheepfolds, also known as Noël’s refuge.

The journey continues across the plateau toward Lake Goria, passing through its dramatic mountain breach. From there, the trek leads to the famous Lakes of Capitello and Melo, set among towering cliffs.

This day covers five to six hours of hiking, with an elevation gain of 700 meters and a descent of 915 meters.

The night is spent in tents near the Grotelle sheepfolds.

The final day follows the scenic Restonica River, with an optional detour to the Alzu Plateau for breathtaking views of Corsica’s major peaks. The descent continues through either the Restonica or Tavignanu Valley, covering a total distance of 11 kilometers over five hours.

The elevation gain for the day is 650 meters, with a descent of 850 meters. The trek concludes in Corte, where the group disperses.