Belgodère / Calenzana

Leading you along the Strada di l’Artigiani (the Artistans’ Route) between Belgudè and Calinzana, this undulating stage going via the perched villages of the Balagne area provides a whole festival of views. The stage doesn’t present any major physical difficulties, alternating between deceptively flat-seeming stretches and short climbs, with sublime views down on the Mediterranean and inland Corsica. The way follows the Route des Villages en Balcon, allowing cyclists to explore typical villages and more secretive sides to Corsica, enjoying unspoilt nature and the rural heritage. This is a gentle stage, easy to tackle, as well as a joy, plus there are a good many fountains along this stretch of the GT20 at which to pause for refreshment.

The Route

On this stage, you cycle straight southwestwards via perched villages, or villages en balcon, but the first 25km involve deceptively flat-seeming stretches that in fact take you climbing gradually to Cateri. Then comes the ascent to the Col de Salvi, a pass that doesn’t present any particular difficulties to cross, but offers lovely views over the Baie de Calvi. Continuing towards Montemaggiore, be careful on the descent, full of potholes at time of writing. All along this stage, the landscapes provide a mix of rockiness and greenery. You share the way with hikers – the stage’s end village, Calinzana, is the starting point for the major GR20 hiking trail across Corsica.

Don't miss

• Belgodère: the medieval village and green valley of Regino
• Montemaggiore: for the sunset in particular
• Zilia: the wine estate, the Domaine Viticole d’Alzipratu,
• Felicetu: the renowned vineyards of Renucci and Maestracci
• Calenzana (Calinzana): a perched village providing extraordinary views over the Mediterranean, a shaded place ideal for a stopover, and also northern starting point for the GR20 hiking trail!