We Fastpacked the Toughest Trek in Europe So You Don’t Have to

What to Expect at the Refuges (aka Mountain Huts)

The refuges on the GR20 are cozy, yet very basic. Make sure to carry plenty of cash on your trek, because few of them accept credit cards. Most hut keepers speak the local language, a mix of French and Italian, but some know English, often enough to get by. If not, you can always do a lot with gestures.

All GR20 huts are run by the Parc Naturel Regional de Corse (PNRC) and need to be booked months in advance, because they fill up quickly. For 25 euros you get a twin mattress in a dormitory, potable water, outhouse, and cold shower.

The hut meals are hardy and communal. No prior reservation is required, but make sure you add your name to the list when you arrive, because they do have a max capacity. Beer and wine are available for purchase, which is a nice treat after long days.

Capanelle was the nicest refuge we stayed at, with hot showers, full bar, washing machine, and great food. It gets booked quickly, so you’ll want to plan ahead. All of the refuges along the GR20 have tent spots around them, in case the dorms are full (although some only have a handful, so do your research). Most will offer pre-set up tents with sleeping pads, or you can bring your own camping gear. Wild camping is not permitted on the GR20, but you could probably get away with it in an emergency.

Source: https://www.fieldmag.com/articles/gr20-hiking-guide-corsica-france