Mountains
71,53 Km
4 h 46 min
I cycle a lot
71,53 km cycling route from Zonza to Bonifacio
The most southerly stage of the GT20 cycle route, linking Zonza to Bunifaziu, takes cyclists on a 71km-long journey, through the splendid mountainous terrain of Corsica’s southern end. After descending to Livia (or Levie), known for its archaeological museum, the way climbs to the Col de Bacinu, after which views open up of the Gulf of Portivechju. The route crosses the villages of Sotta and Chera, alternating between short, steep climbs and easy descents. The endpoint of this stage, and this whole great cycle route through Corsica, is the town of Bunifaziu, with splendid views over the Bouches de Bonifacio, a major coastal nature reserve marked by sea caves.
Elevation of the stage
1770 m 992 m
Waytypes of the stage
By road: 71,53 km
Surface of the stage
Smooth: 71,53 km
The Route
This may be the longest stage on the GT20 cycle route, with 71km to ride and 1,000m of positive shift in altitude to negotiate, but the reward at the end is the spectacular coast. First comes a 15km descent crossing Livia and the prehistoric site of Cucuruzzu. Then you embark on the climb to the Col de Bacinu (a pass at 809m in altitude) via its northerly face. Next comes a second descent, 15km in length, guiding you through the Scaffi d’Usciolu Tunnel to reach Sotta. There then ensues a long straight stretch, followed by the climb to Chera. Finally, enjoy another long, straight descent to Bunifaziu along the T10 road, but the last 6km do require that you keep your wits about you.
Practical information
Tourist offices
- Office de Tourisme de Zonza Santa Lucia - Mairie Annexe de Zonza 184 Strada di Pinareddu 20144 Santa Lucia du Portivechju - 04 95 71 48 99
- Office Municipal de Tourisme de Bonifacio 2 rue Fred Scamaroni 20169 Bonifacio - 04 95 73 11 88
CFC (Corsican train services and stations)
- No train services or stations along this stage
Don't miss
- Zonza: located at the junction of the most beautiful trails in southern Corsica, a paradise for hikers, mountain-bikers and horse-riders; the highest race course in Europe, in a stunning setting
- Levie (Livia): capital of the Alta Rocca area; the Musée et site archéologiques de Capula, the Cucuruzzu’s prehistoric site
- Bonifacio (Bunifaziu): a town designated a Ville d’Art et d’Histoire for its cultural riches; the Citadelle; the Vieille Ville, or historic centre; the Escalier du Roi-d’Aragon, providing panoramic views over the Réserve Naturelle des Bouches de Bonifacio.
Travellers’ reviews