The GT20 is Corsica's grand cycling route: over 600 kilometres from Bastia to Bonifacio, across mountain passes, along the coast and through quiet valleys. On a regular bike it's a serious undertaking; with an e-bike it becomes accessible to a much wider audience.

Across the island

The GT20 (Grande Traversee 20) starts in Bastia in the northeast. From there you cross Cap Corse and reach the west coast, with views over the villages of the Balagne. The route then follows the coast towards Galeria, the Gulf of Porto and the Calanches de Piana, which are on the UNESCO list.

From Porto the route heads inland. You climb through the Gorges de Spelunca and the Aitone forest to the Col de Vergio at 1,478 metres, the highest pass in Corsica. Then you descend to Corte and the Restonica valley. In the south you cycle via Venaco, Ghisoni, Zicavo and Zonza past the Bavella needles, eventually arriving at Porto-Vecchio or Bonifacio.

In total the route covers approximately 600 kilometres and 9,500 metres of climbing.

Insider tip Check in advance where charging points are available and always bring your own charger.

How tough is the GT20?

On a conventional bike, this is a route for experienced cyclists in good shape. The many passes and long climbs demand endurance.

With an electric bike, the GT20 becomes more accessible, provided you choose a model with sufficient power and battery capacity. Along parts of the route, Bosch eBike PowerStations have been installed where you can safely charge your battery during a break.

Insider tip Spread the route over multiple stages (6 to 12 days) and don't underestimate the elevation gain, even with motor assistance.

The GT20 runs largely through the Regional Natural Park of Corsica. You cycle through protected territory with great landscape variety. It's not a simple coastal ride, but a complete crossing of the island -- and that's what makes this route special.