Mountaineering Expedition to Corsica
This summer twelve Sixth Form pupils and Mr Adam Reid, under the auspices of the Expedition and Mountaineering Society, tackled the notoriously challenging high-level route across the mountains of central Corsica. Known as the GR20, it is one of the toughest long distance walking trails in Europe with a well-founded reputation for the extreme physical demands that it places on those who choose to take it on.
Flying from Bristol to Nice, then crossing to Corsica by ferry, the intrepid Sixth Formers completed the route in an uninterrupted nine days from Calenzana to Vizzavona. The ascent and descent on many of the days was equal to that of climbing and coming back down Ben Nevis - though over unyieldingly difficult terrain, in 30 degree heat, carrying up to 20 kilograms. Much of the route could be completed only by scrambling, with precipitous drops to be negotiated at many points. After a gruelling and unrelentingly uphill first day, (with a total ascent of over 1500m) the team grew in confidence, and by the mid-way point were walking with growing strength. Working their way along the route in one-day stages, they camped at established - though primitive! - campsites each night. The intense heat during the day was relieved on occasions by plunging into crystal mountain streams and rivers, while those who were able to keep their eyes open could indulge in some wonderful star-gazing in the moonless mountain night sky.
The expedition was rounded off with a day's R&R on the beach near Bastia, which gave everyone an opportunity to reflect on their achievement of the previous nine days. Throughout the expedition, the group were a great credit to their school and their country. A number of highly experienced mountaineers whom they got to know on the trail were very impressed by their commitment and fitness, and a succession of mountain-hardened refuge wardens were won-over by their humour and charm!
It was a great experience for them all - and for some no less than life-changing.