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GR20 Stage 3 – Carrozzu to Asco-Stagnu

This hike is the third stage of the GR20 north-south trail. It connects the Carrozzu (1,270 m) and Asco-Stagnu (1,420 m) mountain huts through spectacular rocky terrain. Though it is the shortest stage of the trek at only 4.8 kilometers, it is still challenging, featuring a technical ascent through the Muvrella Gorge and a steep descent to the Haut-Asco station.

The hike begins with crossing the legendary Spasimata suspension bridge and gradually climb through rocky slabs to the Bocca di a Muvrella and Bocca di Stagnu passes. There, you can enjoy exceptional views of Monte Cinto (2,706 m), Corsica's highest peak.

Remarks

Services in Asco: The Asco-Stagnu refuge is located in the heart of the Haut-Asco ski resort, marking a return to civilization after three days of isolation. There, you will find several restaurants, a hotel, telephone coverage, and a grocery store with slightly lower prices than those in more remote refuges.

Exit point: A taxi service and a bus connection to Ponte Leccia are available. From there, you can reach Bastia or Ajaccio by train.

Description and difficulties of the hike

The hike is difficult due to the rocky and uneven terrain, with an elevation gain of 830 meters and a loss of 680 meters.

Shortly after leaving the refuge and walking for only 15 minutes, you cross the 31-meter-long Spasimata suspension bridge, which is suspended 15 meters above the torrent. The ascent that follows is the most demanding part of the stage. For nearly three hours, the trail climbs over large, smooth rock slabs that become slippery in wet weather. Cables and chains are provided for the most exposed passages in the Muvrella Gorge.

After reaching Lake Muvrella at an altitude of 1,860 meters, a steep, stony corridor leads successively to Bocca di a Muvrella (nearly 2,000 meters) and then to Bocca di Stagnu (2,010 meters), the highest point of the hike.

The final descent to Asco-Stagnu takes about 1.5 hours and is also technical and challenging. You will lose more than 500 meters of elevation over 1.5 kilometers in a steep corridor with sharp rocks, alternating between flat slabs and unstable scree. This long descent puts intense strain on the knees and requires constant attention, especially in the upper section, where some passages require the use of your hands. The trail then crosses a forest of laricio pines before reaching the resort.

What you'll love

The Spasimata suspension bridge, an iconic passage on the GR20 that overlooks the gorges and offers the opportunity to swim in natural pools.
Climbing through the spectacular Muvrella Gorges with colorful granite walls.
The panoramic views from the passes: The Bonifatu cirque and the Bay of Calvi on one side and the majestic Monte Cinto (2,706 m) on the other, the destination for many hikers the next day.