Is the GR20 the toughest trek in Europe?

Fresh from my return from the Mediterranean island of Corsica, I examine whether the GR20 really is the toughest trek in Europe

There’s no question. The GR20 in Corsica is a challenge. It requires early starts, long days and hiking along exposed, steep and technical terrain, but the rewards are myriad: sweeping views over jagged peaks and deep valleys, serene swims in natural pools, the thrill of navigating rugged alpine passes, and the deep satisfaction of completing a legendary trek.

Corsica’s infamous GR20 trail takes hikers the length of the Mediterranean island and is renowned for its difficulty and requiring a high level of fitness. As such, the Grande Randonnée 20 is often hailed as Europe’s toughest trek.

I just returned from trekking the northern section with Much Better Adventures, and can confirm that there are many hardships to be endured on the GR20.

That said, there are also creature comforts to be found that you wouldn’t find on many other European routes. For starters, hot showers, cold beer and warm croissants certainly make trail life more bearable!

With that in mind, I ask, is the GR20 the toughest trek in Europe?

What is the GR20 trek?

Location: Corsica, France
Distance: 180 km (110 mi)
Duration: 14-16 days
Ascent/descent: ~12,000m
Start-finish: Calenzana/Conca

Mention the island of Corsica to someone, and they will likely think of glittering yacht-filled bays, sweeping sandy beaches, and medieval citadels perched atop rocky headlands. And maybe Napoleon.

But inland, where the four main massifs of Cinto, Retondo, Incudine-Bavella and Renoso rise, you’ll find little in the way of civilisation. Instead, sheer granite peaks tower dramatically above crystal-clear streams, emerald lakes glint in the sun, and breathtaking mountain vistas stretch in every direction towards the Mediterranean.

Running roughly north-south across the island, the trek begins at Calenzana and ends at its southeast terminus in Conca. Traversing the spine of the island, the GR20 winds through a range of topography, including wild mountain ranges, alpine meadows and deep forested valleys.

What makes the GR20 so tough? 

While it may not be the longest, highest or most remote, the terrain is what really stands the GR20 apart. Geologically speaking, the mountains of Corsica are the far southwestern tip of the mainland European Alps.

Formed…