The GT20 North in 8 stages with Cycling Corsica

 La GT20 Nord 7 étapes

A different way to explore Corsica

From Bastia to Ajaccio, the GT20 Nord links the tip of Cap Corse to the Gulf of Ajaccio in 8 days. A journey at a leisurely pace: 8 stages ranging from 35 to 65 km, allowing you to explore the north of the island without ever having to rush.

You set off from Cap Corse and its Genoese towers, follow the beaches of the Agriates Desert, head for the hilltop villages of Balagne, then the red calanques of Piana – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – before reaching the Greek-style village of Cargèse and Ajaccio. A Corsica of coastline and villages, which changes its character every day.

The ‘Slow’ pace gives you the time to do just that: to stop off at a beach, in a village, or at a local producer’s table. The great crossing, within everyone’s reach.

One belief has shaped our holidays: no two people experience a journey in the same way.

Some dream of crossing Corsica entirely on their own, alone with the island. Others love the idea of meeting fellow travellers along the way, sharing a drink in the evening, a stopover, or a chance encounter. And many want both, depending on the day or their mood. So we’ve designed our holidays to give you that choice, from the first day to the last.

Cap Corse, Agriates, Balagne, Gulf of Porto, Calanques de Piana, Corsican coastline
GPX routes to shorten or lengthen the ride depending on how you’re feeling on the day
Support available 7 days a week, from the first to the last mountain pass

YOUR DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

Day 1: Bastia–Ersa
Distance: 50 km / Elevation gain: 650 m

A magnificent first stage to get you going!
The route follows the coastline and passes through the small fishing villages so typical of the east coast of Cap Corse!
For those who wish, a more challenging route is available!

Day 2: Ersa–Saint-Florent
Distance: 65 km / Elevation gain: 785 m

On the western slope of Cap Corse, the steep coastline dramatically overlooks the shore, dominated by Genoese towers and, on the ridges, windmills. Its higher peaks offer superb panoramic views of Cap Corse and the bay of Saint-Florent.

 

Day 3: Saint-Florent–Belgodère
Distance: 62 km / Elevation gain: 1,200 m

The stage begins with a trek through the Agriates Desert, a scorching expanse of rocky outcrops and low-lying scrub. Finally, the villages perched on the headlands of Haute-Balagne offer breathtaking panoramic views of the bays of Calvi and Île-Rousse.

Day 4: Belgodère–Algajola
Distance: 70 km / Elevation gain: 1,190 m

A magnificent stage today as we make our way to Algajola. Discover the beautiful Giussani region and the Col de Battaglia. You’ll be tackling it via the gentlest route! A shorter alternative is available for those who prefer it!

Day 5: Algajola–Galeria
Distance: 60 km / Elevation gain: 1,060 m

Crossing the Marsolinu Pass with stunning views over the Calvi countryside, Galeria lies secluded by the sea at the mouth of the Fango Valley; this village is a haven of peace amidst the hustle and bustle of summer.

 

Day 6: Galeria–Porto
Distance: 55 km / Elevation gain: 710 m

The route takes us towards Corsica’s rich western coastline. At the Col de Palmarella, one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the trip awaits us: the Gulf of Girolata and the Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The flora and fauna of this entire region are exceptional.

Day 7: Porto – Cargèse
Distance: 35 km / Elevation gain: 670 m

This stage is shorter but offers plenty of alternative routes, all detailed in our route guide! After climbing the Calanche de Piana, we continue towards Cargèse and its two churches: the Greek and the Latin, which stand opposite each other overlooking the sea.

Day 8: Cargèse – Ajaccio
Distance: 58 km / Elevation gain: 840 m

You’ll follow the coastline to reach the Imperial City. There are plenty of beaches here; the turquoise water and white sand are an invitation to take a dip!

Comfort
Fixed dates – we’ll carry your luggage
from €1,050 per person

Freedom
Dates of your choice – you carry your own luggage
from €875 per person

Benefits

Accommodation and meals
7 nights in boutique hotels

Breakfasts included

2 dinners in Belgodère, Porto (where dining is part of the journey)

Tour and wine tasting at a vineyard

Drive with peace of mind
Detailed itinerary

GPX route + alternative routes

Telephone support 7 days a week

In the Comfort package, you also get:
Daily luggage transfer: travel light

Roadside assistance

WhatsApp group for travellers on your trip

Prestations non comprises

Single room supplement: from +€280 for the entire stay,
Lunches and dinners on free evenings
Drinks with dinner
Bicycle hire (special rate reserved for travellers on our tours – the same for both ‘Comfort’ and ‘Liberté’ packages)
Generally speaking, anything not mentioned under ‘the price includes’

Mode of locomotion

Bicycle Touring

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