Day 2 on the GR20: From Refuge d’Ortu di U Piobbu to Refuge de Carozzu –
Conquering Storms and Rugged Trails
Day 2 on the GR20 presented a real test of endurance and resilience. We embarked on our hike from Refuge d’Ortu di U Piobbu, ready to tackle the challenges of Corsica’s famed trail. The day’s journey was marked by dramatic weather changes and demanding terrain, making it a memorable and testing part of our adventure.
Morning Start: Steep Ascent Through Beech Forests
We started our hike early at 7:30 am, greeted by overcast skies and cool temperatures. The trail began with a steep climb through beautiful beech forests, setting the tone for the day. As we ascended, the path gradually led us to the base of a towering mountain. Although the climb was strenuous, the stunning views of the surrounding peaks kept us motivated. We paused briefly for a snack before continuing our ascent toward the day’s highest point.
Reaching the Summit and Facing Hailstorms
By 11:35 am, we reached the summit at 2,000 meters. The final stretch to the top involved some scrambling, requiring both hands and feet to navigate the rocky terrain. Just as we celebrated reaching the highest point, the weather turned against us.
Hailstones began to fall heavily, and we had to quickly put on our wet gear and find shelter under a rock overhang. The brief moments of sunshine were fleeting, and the rain persisted throughout our journey.
Navigating Treacherous Terrain
The next phase of our hike involved navigating a challenging boulder field. The combination of rain and slippery rocks made the climb even more difficult. For about two hours, we scrambled over wet boulders and climbed through rushing streams. The descent from 1,900 meters to 1,270 meters was particularly tough, with the slick stones adding to the difficulty. Despite these obstacles, we finally arrived at the Refuge de Carozzu at 3:30 pm, soaked and weary.
Refuge de Carozzu: Arrival and Recovery
Upon arrival, we picked our tents and changed into dry clothes. The relentless rain continued, but we managed to get our gear somewhat dry during a brief lull in the weather. Dinner at the refuge was less than ideal—soup for starters, bland pasta for the main course, and an underwhelming chocolate cake for dessert. However, after a gruelling day, any food was a welcome relief.
Planning for the Next Day
Given the forecast of more rain, we decided to start our hike early at 5:30 am to avoid the worst of the weather. This proactive approach was crucial for making it to the next refuge before the rain set in. Day 2 reinforced the importance of preparation and flexibility when hiking the GR20.
Connectivity and Reflections
At Refuge de Carozzu, there was no Wi-Fi or phone signal, as it is situated in a remote valley between two large mountains. Despite the lack of connectivity, the stunning scenery provided some solace. Many hikers considered quitting due to the harsh conditions, but the shared experience of enduring the elements fostered a sense of camaraderie.
Stay tuned for Day 3, where we tackle the hike from Refuge de Carozzu to Ascu Stagnu, facing new challenges and exploring more of Corsica’s rugged beauty.