GR20 Stage 11 – Capannelle to Prati
Key facts about the hike
- Difficulty
- Hard Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
- Duration
- 6h Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
- Distance
- 17.9km
- Elevation gain
- 990m
- Elevation loss
- 810 m
- Type of route
- One way
- Maximum altitude
- 1,865 m
- Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
- No
- Marked
- Yes
- Popularity
- High
- Region
- Center
- Start point
- 42.07737, 9.15026
- Activity
- Trek - GR20
Hike overview
The eleventh stage of the GR20 north to south trail, connects the Capannelle refuge (1,642 m) to the Prati refuge (1,820 m) over a distance of nearly 18 kilometers. Though long, this stage is relatively accessible compared to previous sections of the trek. It follows rolling, mostly shaded trails.
Two highlights of the route are a long walk through the forest to Verde Pass, the stage's lowest point at 1,289 meters above sea level, and a steady climb to Bocca d'Oru (1,846 m). This pass offers spectacular views of the east coast and the Mediterranean before the final descent to the Prati refuge.
Map and elevation profile of the hike
GR20 Stage 11 – Capannelle to Prati
Description and difficulties of the hike
This stage has two distinct sections. The first part mainly goes through the forest with a gradual descent from Capannelle via the Traggette sheepfolds and the Gialgone plateau. After crossing the Marmano footbridge, hikers will discover the magnificent Marmano fir forest, famous for its giant fir trees, some of which reach 50 meters in height.
The Verde Pass is accessible via the departmental road, and the San Petru di Verde relay offers a chance to rest and refuel before the final ascent. From this point on, the terrain changes radically. A steep climb of 600 meters leads to Bocca d'Oru (1,846 m). The climb begins under a canopy of beech trees and gradually opens up to more open terrain at higher altitudes. The switchbacks are steep, but the trail is well-maintained. From Bocca d'Oru, it's only a 15-minute walk up a slight incline to reach the Prati refuge.
What you'll love
- The magnificent Marmano fir forest, with trees reaching up to 50 meters in height.
- The San Petru di Verde relay at the Verde pass, the perfect place to refuel and eat halfway through the hike to regain your strength before the final ascent.
- The exceptional panorama from Bocca d'Oru overlooking the east coast, the Aléria plain, and its lakes (Diana, Urbino, and Palo).
- The Prati Refuge, which is considered one of the most magical settings on the GR20, especially at sunrise, thanks to its exceptional location overlooking the Mediterranean.
Practical information
Splitting the stage
You can split this stage by staying at the San Petru di Verde relay at the Verde Pass, which is open from late May to early October. This establishment offers accommodations, food, and supplies, allowing you to save the final climb to Bocca d'Oru and Prati for the next morning and lighten your load.
Photos
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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/corsica/gr20-stage-11-from-capannelle-to-prati/