Best overseas walking route

Corsica’s GR20

Considered one of the most demanding of the Grand Randonnée European walking routes, the GR20 follows the breathtaking mountainous spine of Corsica and was for many years the preserve of experienced mountaineers. But the introduction of luggage transfers and mountain refuges offering food and accommodation over the last decade has opened up the possibility of tackling this wondrous route to the enthusiastic walker, and this year’s award proves how popular it’s become.

It takes around 16 days to walk all 200km/125 miles of the G20. Starting in the south, the sharp mountain terrain gets ever more technical as you progress north, the sun on your back illuminating the sumptuous panoramas before you. Legendary walker Paddy Dillon, who authored Cicerone’s guidebook to the G20, can vouch for both its difficulty and excitement. “Most people who give up do so at the end of the first day,” he says. “But those who complete the trek vow to return and walk it again. You’ll need a head for heights, and be willing to use your hands from time to time, but the waymarks reveal every breach, ledge and line of weakness over formidable mountains. Make the GR20 a priority while you’re still fit and agile!”

For more about the route, visit www.le-gr20.com/gb.

Text: Dominic Bates Photo: Piero Montesacro