In Corsica, the word "refuge" covers very different realities — from the warden-run refuge on the GR20 to the guesthouse that calls itself a refuge to sound authentic. Here is how to find your way around and pick the experience that suits you.
The 3 main categories of refuges in Corsica
The warden-run refuge (GR20)
On the GR20, these are the official refuges of the Corsican Regional Natural Park: Ortu di u Piobbu, Carozzu, Asco Stagnu, Tighjettu, Ciottulu di i Mori, etc. Spartan comfort (dormitories, shared bathrooms, often cold water only). 2026 rates: €20 per person on a wooden plank bed, €12 per person for a marked bivouac pitch, dinner around €20, breakfast around €10. Booking is mandatory (including for the bivouac) on the official website pnr-resa.corsica, several months ahead in high season. Opening season: 16 May to 4 October. These are real, functional refuges, not glamorous places.
The stage gîte or private refuge
More comfortable, these are private (often family-run) places that welcome hikers and travellers on a half-board basis. You get hot showers, a daily dinner around the big table, dormitories or private rooms. Wi-Fi is hit and miss (often absent at altitude). Rates: €32-60 in a dormitory, €70-120 in a private room. This is our category. Le Relais U Machjonu in Tolla is one example — a refuge in spirit, a gîte in comfort, open all year round (no Wi-Fi on site, only mobile 4G).
The restored shepherd's hut
Rarer and more striking: former high-altitude shepherds' huts (bergeries) bought back and restored, now hosting 1 or 2 rooms. You sleep in a rough-stone room, often with a fireplace, a single bed and basic bathroom facilities. Expect €80-150 per night. Book well in advance and often for couples only.
Expected comfort vs real comfort
At the Relais, we have deliberately positioned ourselves between the two: authenticity (stone walls, dormitories, daily menu) plus real comfort (quality mattresses, linens included, beds made on arrival, individual reading lights, well-kept bathrooms, panoramic terrace). That is what works for 90% of our guests: they do not want a sleeping bag on the floor, but they do not want a soulless palace either. Half-board is offered as an option, never the main reason to come.
How to book a refuge in Corsica?
- PNRC refuges (GR20): only via the official website, several months ahead.
- Private stage gîtes: on their own website, by phone, or via Booking.com for the best known ones.
- Restored shepherds' huts: rarely listed on platforms, direct contact by phone (the local tourist office number is usually helpful).
To go further, see our complete guide to unique stays in Corsica, which covers every option (lodges, cabins, full privatisation).
