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GR20 variants and summit side-trips

The GR20 has several higher "variante alpine" routes and a handful of classic summit detours. They add time and difficulty — but also some of the finest scenery on the island, for hikers who are sure-footed and pick their weather.

None of these are required: the main red-and-white GR20 is a complete trek on its own. But if you are strong, experienced and lucky with the forecast, the variants and side-trips below turn a great walk into an unforgettable one. Treat every one as weather-dependent and build the extra hours into your day plan.

Official alpine variants

• Monte d'Oro variant (Onda → Vizzavona). A higher, more exposed alternative that traverses the flank of Monte d'Oro (2,389 m) instead of the standard forest descent to Vizzavona — bigger views, more scrambling.
• Manganu → Petra Piana ridge (the lakes variant). Instead of the valley route, a high ridgeline reaches the Brèche de Capitello, with the glacial lakes of Melo and Capitello far below — one of the most spectacular stretches of the whole massif.
• Aiguilles de Bavella alpine variant. Near the Col de Bavella, a marked variant threads through the famous Bavella needles with a short cabled passage. Superb rock scenery, genuine exposure.

Summit side-trips for peak-baggers

• Monte Cinto (2,706 m) — Corsica's highest point, reachable as a side-ascent from the high northern route near the Pointe des Éboulis.
• Paglia Orba (2,525 m) — the "Corsican Cervin", climbed from near the Ciottulu di i Mori refuge; a striking, steep detour.
• Monte Rotondo (2,622 m) — Corsica's second summit, a long side-trip from the Petra Piana / Manganu area.

Easier detours worth the time

• Lac de Nino — the emblematic pozzines (grassy peat pools), often with free-roaming horses, a short and gentle detour on the plateau near the Bergeries de Vaccaghja.
• Lacs de Melo & Capitello — Corsica's best-known glacial lakes, on the Restonica side below the Manganu–Petra Piana ridge.

Plan them in — don't improvise

Every variant and summit adds hours and altitude, and most are more exposed than the main trail. Only take them in settled weather, start early, and turn back if cloud or storm builds. The simplest way to fit one in is to plan a shorter base day around it: see how many days you need, and remember the higher northern route already brings Monte Cinto within reach.

Frequently asked questions

Are the GR20 alpine variants waymarked?

The main alpine variants are marked, usually with yellow paint that is distinct from the red-and-white GR20 blazes. They are less travelled and less maintained than the main route, so navigation demands more attention — carry the map and GPX.

Do I need climbing gear for the variants?

For the marked variants you generally do not need a rope, but you do need sure-footed scrambling ability and a head for exposure; some passages have cables. They are only sensible in good, stable weather. If you are unsure, take the normal GR20.

Which side-trip is most worth it?

It depends what you are after: Monte Cinto for standing on Corsica's highest point, Lac de Nino for the easiest and most photogenic detour, Paglia Orba for sheer drama. Most add a few hours to a half-day.

Can beginners attempt the alpine variants?

No. If the standard GR20 already feels at your limit, skip the variants and summits — the main trail is demanding enough. Save them for a return trip or for experienced, well-acclimatised days with a good forecast.