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.

- The few itineraries classified as F and PD (none of them is included in the GR20 trek) do not require mountaineering equipment either. Generally, these itineraries are not marked with coloured dots but with stone cairns and tracks are not always well evident. In this guidebook, we chose not to describe these specific sections too much in detail (GPX tracks are always available anyway). Our choice depends on the fact that we believe that hikers who are enough experienced to find and assess the difficult sections, also have the skills and confidence to face them.

- Inside the text, hiking times are always presented in a progressive way and they are not added together. The total hiking time is the one indicated in the legend. Therefore, each fraction of time indicated inside the text must be considered only taking into account the previous reference of time.

Moreover, I would like to thank those who contributed to the realization of this guidebook. The idea arose in the spring of 2020 and took shape thanks to the Editor’s trust, especially Roberto Capucciati, who showed interest and believed in this project from the beginning. To my dad, Guido Bianciardi, and to its 43 Parallelo Siena, that contributed to every aspect, especially during the drafting of the itineraries’ descriptions, and for its support and company during field work. To my cousin Virginia Ciani and to Dominik Martini who, even without knowing the project in detail, gave their availability to accompany me to the island, giving their support in covering the itineraries. To those who provided their knowledge and their time for the drafting of the introductory texts, so thanks to my mum, Prof. Letizia Marsili and to Prof. Francesco Ferretti, to Dr. Claudia Angiolini and Giacomo Calvia, to Dr. Rosanna Zari and to Prof. Pier Giorgio Solinas. To Prof. Francesco Coscia and Prof. Paola Virginia Gigliotti for the fact sheets inside the book. A special mention goes to the University of Sassari represented by Prof. Vincenzo Pascucci, who took an interest in the project from the beginning, actively contributing in many ways and providing his knowledge in the field of geology. To the graphic designer Francesca Sarpi, with whom I have positively and constantly collaborated, helping each other. To Silvia Rialdi for the English translation, her availability and suggestions to give uniformity to the text.

Finally to my partner, Margherita Casini, for her patience and suggestions since the very beginning, especially in summer months during field work, and for her precious work concerning photos, thanks to her greater experience in this field she helped me choose the best pics.