Ascu Stagnu (Haut-Asco)
Former ski station at the foot of Monte Cinto (2706 m), Corsica's highest peak.
Former ski station at the foot of Monte Cinto (2706 m), Corsica's highest peak. Hotel Le Chalet + PNRC refuge with shop, restaurant, hot showers. Best resupply in the north.
The place
After two days of granite and gas-stove dinners, Haut-Asco appears like a mirage with a car park: a former ski station in a larch-fringed bowl at the foot of Monte Cinto, Corsica's highest peak at 2,706 m. There are hot showers. There is a restaurant. There is a shop selling actual cheese. Hikers wander the tarmac in sandals with the dazed grins of people rediscovering civilisation.
This is also where the trail turns serious. Since the Cirque de la Solitude was closed after the tragic storm accident of June 2015, the GR20 climbs from here over the Pointe des Éboulis — at around 2,600 m the highest point on the main route — a long, stony haul that starts before dawn for most. So enjoy the comforts, but respectfully: eat well, repack carefully, and get to bed early. Tomorrow you cross the roof of the trail.
Getting there
| Leg | Distance | Elevation | Trail runner | Fit / sportive | Multiday hiker | Relaxed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| From Refuge de Carozzu | 7 km | +750 / −600 m | 3h18 | 4h41 | 6h10 | 7h23 |
| To Refuge de Tighjettu | 6 km | +830 / −560 m | 3h11 | 4h33 | 6h00 | 7h11 |
Booking
Booking is mandatory for all overnight stays on the GR20, including bivouac pitches. Wild camping is not allowed on the trail.
Stages featuring this stop
- Stage 3: Refuge de Carozzu → Ascu Stagnu (Haut-Asco)
- Stage 4: Ascu Stagnu (Haut-Asco) → Refuge de Tighjettu
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