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Monte Cinto Hike

At 2,706 meters, Monte Cinto is Corsica's highest peak and one of the island's major hikes. Starting from the Haut-Asco resort, the trail initially follows the renowned GR20, then veers off onto a more technical route towards the summit.

This long, demanding hike takes you through spectacular, high-mountain landscapes and rewards your efforts with a 360° view of the Asco Valley, the surrounding peaks—including the majestic Paglia Orba—and the Mediterranean Sea in the background.

Remarks

Parking: There is a large, free parking lot at the Haut-Asco ski resort (1,422 m), the starting point for the hike.

Ideal period: July to September. Snow can persist at high altitudes until early July. Be sure to check the weather forecast, and don't hesitate to ask the mountain professionals in Asco for advice.

Difficulties and description of the hike

The ascent of Monte Cinto is a major physical challenge. The 11-kilometer round-trip hike includes 1,520 meters of elevation gain. Follow the well-marked GR20 trail (red and white markings) to Pointe des Éboulis, which sits at an altitude of 2,607 meters. After warming up on a slight incline in the Carozzica forest, the ascent begins, and the terrain gradually becomes rockier. Handrails secure the exposed sections.

Once you reach Pointe des Éboulis (2,607 m), the summit seems close, but don't be fooled; it will take another three hours round-trip to reach it. The terrain becomes very steep and technical with some vertiginous passages where you will need to use your hands. The red markings can be difficult to spot in this rocky terrain.

What you'll love

The exceptional 360° panorama from the summit: views of both coasts of the island, the Mediterranean, including the Gulf of Calvi, and all the great Corsican peaks.
The sense of accomplishment you'll feel after climbing to the highest peak in Corsica, a legendary summit rising to 2,706 meters.
The magnificent road through the Asco Valley that leads to the start of the hike is one of the most beautiful on the island.