Short loop on the Coscione Plateau

To get to the start by car: on the D69 between Zicavo and the Col de la Vaccia, find the small D428 road (at an altitude of 1066 metres) which climbs towards the Coscionu Plateau. Pass the Bergeries de Bassetta and continue to the crossroads with a wide track (altitude 1371 metres). Turn left onto this track, which leads to the car park at the Matalza Refuge. Alternatively, leave the track and continue by car to the San Petru Chapel, then walk along the GR®20 to the Matalza Refuge.

(S/E) From the car park, pass the Matalza Refuge and you will be on the GR®20. Continue to a fork.

(1) At the signposts, turn right towards "I Croci". Follow the GR®20 to the Bergerie Refuge I Croci. This trail will take you past streams, meadows and century-old trees.

(2) When you reach the Refuge I Croci, leave the GR®20 and take the wide track above the bivouac area that climbs up to the left. You will have a clear view of the distant Renoso massif and pass by large granite boulders. At the Bergeries de Cavallara, there is a beautiful view of the Cavallare stream meadow.

(3) After the Bergeries de Cavallara, at the junction of several tracks, follow the path opposite. This path climbs slightly before descending gently to another change of direction.

(4) At the intersection marked by two cairns on the ground, leave the path and take a trail on the left, which crosses a small meadow before a slightly steeper climb. From the top, descend the fairly steep slope, then cross the charming Ruisseau d'Orticacciu and return to the fork in the trail.

(1) Head back up towards the Maltaza Refuge and the car park (S/E).

You can refill your water bottles halfway at the I Croci refuge.

Before returning to your vehicle, stop at the Maltalza Refuge to enjoy a slice of homemade chestnut cake with a cold drink.