Can we manage it?

Visitor

Posted: Sun, Apr 22, 2007, 14:55

Hi Marek,

thanks for this really good web-page :) We plan to visit Corsica in July and to walk along the GR20 from Calenzana to Vizzavona. As some others here, we're still not sure if we can manage it... I think we're both in a good fitness level, but I'm afraid we're not experienced enough. We regularly make quite long trips in Beskydy and Jeseniky (eastern Czech rep.). We also did some hiking in Ukraine (Zakarpatska oblast). With the heavy bags and tent we walked the West Highland Way (Scotland) last summer (7 days). And what's the problem: we don't know any climbing techniques... Do you think the GR20 will be OK for us? (I'm prepared it'll be hard but hopefully not dangerous...).

Many thanks :)

Majka




Marek Prokop

Posted: Sun, Apr 22, 2007, 15:29

Majka, if you are fit enough to carry heavy bags for seven days as during your trip to Scotland, you will do the GR 20 as well. You need no climbing techniques, just a bit of scrambling, i.e. you have to use your hands sometimes.

By the way, if you are from the Czech Republic, feel free to drop me a note in Czech via the contact form :-)




Visitor

Posted: Thu, May 31, 2007, 9:03

You'll manage. All you need is the right gear, stamina, no fear of heights and a relaxed attitude.
My best advice would be: take it easy on the first day, especially when you're beginning in Calenzana. It's all climb and your body has to get accustomed to the heat and the strain. Start early (preferably at first daylight), bring enough water (very little water available along the way) and take regular rest.
My first marathon and the first day of the GR20 were the hardest physical activity I've ever done, and both for the same reason: start too fast, drink too little, let myself be carried away by the experience, basically. Nevertheless, the GR20 is absolutely wonderful, and I'm hoping to return any time soon to do it all over again :-) Have fun!

Dolf