GR20 part 4 : From Vizzavona to Cozzano

Arrive and settle into your accommodation in Vizzavona. An optional hike will be offered if you arrive in the morning.

The route begins with a winding ascent through the majestic beech trees of the Vizzavona forest. The path climbs gradually to reach Bocca Palmente, at an altitude of 1,650 metres. Up here, a landscape of alder groves and small wildflowers stretches through the dense scrubland. The panorama of the Tyrrhenian Sea, glistening in the distance, more than makes up for the effort involved in reaching the pass. The GR20 continues on relatively flat ground, leading to the Alzeta sheepfolds. The path then winds up to the Cardo ridge, offering new views of the Corsican landscape, before descending to the Scarpaccedié sheepfolds. You will then cross the Sambuccu forest, characterised by its imposing trees and shady atmosphere. The hike ends with a progression towards the Chufidu ridge, before reaching the Capannelle-Ghisoni resort, the finish point of this beautiful mountain stage.

This stage takes you through serene wooded landscapes, following an ancient pastoral path through the Renoso massif. The route stretches along the mountainside, winding under the canopy as far as the peaceful sheepfolds of Traggette. From here, the path descends gently to the D169, where you cross the Casso stream on the Casaccie bridge. The climb then resumes, taking you across the small streams of Cannareccia and Lischeto before reaching the crest of Petra Scopina. This takes you to the vast Gialgone plateau, perched at an altitude of 1,592 metres, offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding area. The path then plunges to the bottom of the Maramano valley, where a footbridge makes it easy to cross the stream. The hike continues through the majestic Marmano fir forest, with its towering firs and centuries-old beech trees. You'll make your way through the shade of these remarkable trees before reaching the Bocca di a Flasca, at an altitude of 1,430 metres. The day ends with a short descent to the Col de Verde, the final point of this wilderness stage.

From the Col de Verde, the path gradually rises through dense forest to the Prati refuge, where you can enjoy your first break. From here, the GR20 continues along a steep ridge, winding its way between large scattered boulders and the chaotic landscapes typical of this mountainous region. As you gain altitude, spectacular panoramas gradually come into view, offering breathtaking views of the island of Elba and the Diana, Urbinu and Palu lakes, glistening in the distance. The path continues to climb, leading to the summit of Punta Capella, at 2,041 metres above sea level. After this demanding climb, you'll begin the descent towards the Col de Laparo, before reaching the refuge d'Usciolu. From the Bocca di Suragheddu, it's a long descent to the village of Cozzano.