GR20 Stage 10: From Vizzavona to Capannelle
The tenth stage of the GR20 north-south trail connects Vizzavona (940 m) to the Capannelle refuge (1,642 m). This stage marks the beginning of the second half of the trek, which has a different character: the trails are easier to walk on, less technical, and have more abundant vegetation compared to the rocky and rugged stages in the north.
The route crosses the magnificent Vizzavona territorial forest, then climbs to the Bocca Palmente Pass, culminating at 1,644 meters altitude, which offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea to the east and Monte d'Oro to the north. The route then winds through the sheepfolds of Alzeta and the communal forest of Ghisoni before reaching the Capannelle ski resort.
Remarks
First stage of the GR20 South: This stage marks the beginning of the last seven stages of the GR20 between Vizzavona and Conca, marking a notable change in the character of the trail with more rolling terrain and greener scenery.
Capannelle Refuge: Located at an altitude of 1,642 meters in a ski resort, the refuge offers services different from those of traditional mountain refuges, including the opportunity to enjoy homemade pizzas and pastries. It is also a road access point for entering or exiting the GR20.
Difficulties and description of the hike
Although this stage is less technical than the GR20 North stages, it is challenging due to its length and 950-meter elevation gain, which is concentrated at the beginning. The initial climb from Vizzavona to Bocca Palmente is the day's main challenge: it begins with a wide forest track that winds in switchbacks for about an hour before branching off onto a more traditional trail.
Once you've crossed the pass, the route becomes more accessible: the second part mainly follows contour lines on gentler, more pleasant terrain. The trail crosses numerous streams where you can cool off. The final climb in the Sambuccu Forest toward the Chufidu Ridge is relatively short but steep before reaching a paved road and then the refuge.
What you'll love
- The spectacular panorama from Bocca Palmente: Breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern plain to the east, and the Monte d'Oro and Rotondo massifs to the north.
- The charming sheepfolds of Alzeta, now abandoned but still retaining their authentic character, provide an ideal place to stop for a break.
- The numerous water sources along the route, allowing you to refresh yourself regularly in picturesque surroundings.
- The Capannelle refuge and its homemade specialties: Delicious pizzas, calzones, and muffins, a welcome variety of refreshments after a day's walk.
Hike technical sheet
➡️ Hiking parameters
➡️ Hiking parameters
➡️ Hiking parameters
REMARKS
First stage of the GR20 South: This stage marks the beginning of the last seven stages of the GR20 between Vizzavona and Conca, marking a notable change in the character of the trail with more rolling terrain and greener scenery.
Capannelle Refuge: Located at an altitude of 1,642 meters in a ski resort, the refuge offers services different from those of traditional mountain refuges, including the opportunity to enjoy homemade pizzas and pastries. It is also a road access point for entering or exiting the GR20.
Difficulties and description of the hike
Although this stage is less technical than the GR20 North stages, it is challenging due to its length and 950-meter elevation gain, which is concentrated at the beginning. The initial climb from Vizzavona to Bocca Palmente is the day's main challenge: it begins with a wide forest track that winds in switchbacks for about an hour before branching off onto a more traditional trail.
Once you've crossed the pass, the route becomes more accessible: the second part mainly follows contour lines on gentler, more pleasant terrain. The trail crosses numerous streams where you can cool off. The final climb in the Sambuccu Forest toward the Chufidu Ridge is relatively short but steep before reaching a paved road and then the refuge.
What you'll love
- The spectacular panorama from Bocca Palmente: Breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern plain to the east, and the Monte d'Oro and Rotondo massifs to the north.
- The charming sheepfolds of Alzeta, now abandoned but still retaining their authentic character, provide an ideal place to stop for a break.
- The numerous water sources along the route, allowing you to refresh yourself regularly in picturesque surroundings.
- The Capannelle refuge and its homemade specialties: Delicious pizzas, calzones, and muffins, a welcome variety of refreshments after a day's walk.
Slideshow
Nearby hikes
Monte d’Oro
- Difficulty : Very hard
- Duration : 7 h 30 m
- Distance : 15.4 km
- Elevation gain : 1520 m
Cascade des Anglais
- Difficulty : Easy
- Duration : 1 h 30 m
- Distance : 2.7 km
- Elevation gain : 150 m
Bergerie de Tolla
- Difficulty : Easy
- Duration : 4 h
- Distance : 11.1 km
- Elevation gain : 360 m
GR20 Stage 9: Alpine variant
- Difficulty : Hard
- Duration : 7 h
- Distance : 11.5 km
- Elevation gain : 1090 m
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