Stage 1
Calenzana to Ortu di u Piobbu
6.5-7 hours · 12 km · 1764 m gain
The GR20 opens with a stiff climb from Calenzana into the mountains toward Ortu di u Piobbu. Plan for about 6.5 to 7 hours on rocky Corsican paths with serious ascent - this is one of the tougher first days on any European trek.
Ortu di u Piobbu is a mountain refuge in open granite country. Book the bergerie ahead in summer; water and food depend on what the refuge stocks that week.