The Cirque de Bonifatu is a glacially sculpted mountain amphitheatre in the coastal ranges behind Calvi, lying at the northern terminus of the GR20 long-distance trail and offering a range of routes from gentle forest walks to demanding summit approaches through the heart of Haute-Corse's Laricio pine forests. The Maison Forestière de Bonifatu at approximately 500 metres serves as the base for all routes into the cirque — a forestry lodge with a seasonal restaurant and water source — reached by a 20-kilometre drive from Calvi on the D81B forest road. The shorter routes follow the GR20 northward through magnificent stands of ancient Laricio pine, a species endemic to Corsica and Calabria, with river crossings on stepping stones and views opening progressively toward the granite cirque walls above. A popular 6-kilometre return walk reaches the Refuge de Carrozzu at approximately 1,270 metres — a PNRC-managed refuge offering overnight accommodation and meals — which serves as a comfortable turnaround point for the day. More ambitious routes climb to the Col de la Foggiale at 1,962 metres or the summits above, gaining over 1,400 metres from the base and suitable only for experienced mountain hikers with appropriate equipment. The forest floor is home to Corsican deer and mouflon on the higher slopes; red kites and buzzards are regularly seen soaring above the cirque walls. The Maison Forestière has basic toilet facilities, and the approach road is passable by standard car but narrow in places. The cirque receives considerably less visitor pressure than the Restonica or Bavella areas, making it an attractive choice for those seeking quieter mountain scenery in Corsica.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Calvi, Haute-Corse
- Best season
- April–October
What to bring
- Hiking boots
- Water and snacks
- Layers for afternoon cool
Location
Maison Forestière de Bonifatu, Route Forestière de Bonifatu, 20260 Calvi
42.4520, 8.8530 View on map
Highlights
- Ancient Laricio pine forest — endemic to Corsica and Calabria — lines the lower trail in impressive stands
- Refuge de Carrozzu at 1,270 m marks the GR20's northern gateway and offers meals and overnight accommodation
- Glacially carved cirque walls create a dramatic natural amphitheatre above the tree line
- Significantly lower visitor numbers than Restonica or Bavella make for a quieter mountain experience
Tips for visiting
- Book the Refuge de Carrozzu in advance via parc-naturel-corse.com if planning to stay overnight — it fills from late June onward.
- The seasonal restaurant at Maison Forestière opens roughly May to October; confirm opening dates before planning a lunch stop there.
- River crossings on stepping stones can be slippery — trekking poles improve balance, particularly in spring when flow is higher.
- Multiple route lengths make the cirque accessible to beginners on the lower forest section and to experienced hikers on the summit routes.
- Drive from Calvi early on summer mornings — the narrow D81B forest road can back up if the Maison Forestière car park fills.
When to visit
May to early October offers the full range of routes; June and September are ideal with snow cleared from upper passes and well below July–August peak crowds. April and late October are suitable for the lower forest sections in mild weather.
Accessibility
The Cirque de Bonifatu is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers due to rocky paths, river crossings, and uneven terrain throughout. The first 200–300 metres of the main trail from the Maison Forestière car park follows a relatively flat forest road and is walkable with mobility aids, though full wheelchair access is not possible.
Frequently asked questions
Can beginners hike in the Cirque de Bonifatu?
Yes — the lower forest section from the Maison Forestière to approximately 2–3 kilometres into the valley is suitable for all fitness levels on well-marked paths. The route to Refuge de Carrozzu is a moderate undertaking appropriate for fit walkers in basic hiking footwear. Summit routes require experience and full mountain equipment.
Is the Cirque de Bonifatu the start of the GR20?
The Maison Forestière de Bonifatu is the official northern trailhead of the GR20. Walkers beginning the GR20 from its northern end typically spend the first night at Refuge de Carrozzu, 3 kilometres up the valley, before tackling the demanding northern stages.
Are there facilities at the trailhead?
The Maison Forestière has a seasonal restaurant (approximately May–October), basic toilets, and a water source. Refuge de Carrozzu, 3 kilometres up the valley, has a staffed restaurant and overnight accommodation available by advance reservation through the PNRC.
What is the best route for a half-day visit?
A 2-hour return walk along the GR20 northward from the Maison Forestière to the Bocca di u Tartagine junction offers excellent forest scenery without significant elevation gain. Extending to Refuge de Carrozzu makes a satisfying half-day of 3 to 4 hours return with approximately 770 m of ascent.