Refuge de Petra Piana
The oldest refuge on the GR20, perched at 1842 m with sweeping views of the central ridge.
The oldest refuge on the GR20, perched at 1842 m with sweeping views of the central ridge. Choice of ridge or valley variant the next day. Snacks.
The place
Petra Piana perches at 1,842 m on an open shoulder of the central ridge, and its view is a working diagram of everything you've done and everything still to come: peaks stacked behind peaks, valleys plunging on both sides, clouds boiling up from the coast in the afternoon and dissolving by dusk. The refuge itself is small and weathered — the oldest on the trail — with the settled air of a building that has seen every kind of weather and hiker.
Evenings here revolve around one delicious argument: ridge or valley tomorrow? The high crest variant toward l'Onda is airy, hands-on and unforgettable in good weather; the valley route is kinder and passes a bergerie famous for its omelettes. Wardens give blunt advice — take it. Then find a rock, watch the light drain westward toward the sea, and be glad you're sleeping somewhere the road will never reach.
Getting there
| Leg | Distance | Elevation | Trail runner | Fit / sportive | Multiday hiker | Relaxed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| From Refuge de Manganu | 8 km | +800 / −560 m | 3h27 | 4h56 | 6h30 | 7h47 |
| To Bergerie de Tolla | 3.5 km | +50 / −480 m | 1h19 | 1h51 | 2h25 | 2h54 |
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
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