Introductory Note These initial pages have been thought to help the reader better understand this guidebook and to give some suggestions and recommendations to tackle the proposed itineraries in the best possible way. The GR20 is considered a basic long distance trek. The term “basic” refers to an itinerary that is in its most natural state concerning different aspects, equipped and made safer with chains only in some sections, even if over the last few years it has become more and more suitable to everybody’s needs. Mountain huts and Bergerie also embrace this philosophy, providing hikers with what is strictly necessary for a meal, some basic food items and a place inside the mountain hut or in the tent area. We should not be surprised if we receive the same treatment also in the most touristic locations, far away from the GR20; we can affirm that Corsica, especially inland, is a basic place in many ways. In addition, we should consider the difficulties due to the mountain environment, often exceeding 2000m of altitude, but always close to the sea. There are often sudden and unexpected weather changes, with storms and thickening clouds in the afternoon, quickly rising from the coast and reaching us almost every day. For this reason, it is highly recommended to start early in the morning in order to reach the destination by early afternoon, thus hiking during the coolest hours of the day, especially in summer. Another aspect which should not be underestimated is the terrain on which we are walking. It often winds through stones and granite boulders that make the hike more difficult, requiring constant attention and balance. Instead, when vegetation prevails, we walk through wonderful forests and, in worst cases, we are surrounded by alders or low and prickly junipers. Therefore, shoes are a fundamental element to cope with the hike to the fullest, always carrying extra shoes and patches for blisters. Concerning water, we should not worry too much. The Corsican territory is rich in water and we will find several water sources and springs along the way. Even when they are not available, there are many water streams or lakes along the paths. Of course they do not provide drinking water, also due to animals grazing everywhere in the island, therefore it is very useful to have a water purifier. This allows us to carry only a small water supply, reducing the weight of our rucksack.
After having given these brief introductory remarks, we can present the book more in detail: - Almost all the proposed itineraries are classified as EE, since difficulties are constantly present, taking into account either distance, vertical height gain or terrain. These three aspects (distance, vertical height gain and terrain) must always be assessed carefully. Stages that seem short on paper may easily turn into long and demanding hikes, with exposed sections and a considerable vertical height gain. For unexperienced hikers, each day may become endless, forcing them to give up the trek after a few days. Itineraries with chain and cable-equipped sections are classified as EE+. They do not require mountaineering equipment, and chains and cables are often placed in sections where their use is not absolutely necessary, although they certainly ensure a higher sense of safety to those who are less sure-footed, or if the terrain is wet.
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