GT20 / ETAPE 7 : PORTU - VERGHJU

Halfway through the GT20, it's time for one of the island's legendary climbs.

From **Portu (Porto)** to **Col de Verghju (Vergio)**, Corsica's highest road pass, this 7ᵉ stage unfurls 34km of continuous climbing for 1,486 metres of positive vertical drop. A veritable vertical journey, from the sea to the wide open spaces of the mountains.

From the very first kilometres, the sea fades into the rear-view mirror. The road climbs up the cliff face, offering the prospect of the next twist in the road at every bend, before plunging into the spectacular Spelunca Gorge. The scenery changes dramatically: sheer cliffs, rocky chaos and a river below make for a striking start.

After an initial 10km ascent, a short flat area allows you to catch your breath before the climb to **Evisa**, a village clinging to the mountain. The crossing, sometimes at 8%, is a reminder that you are gradually gaining in altitude.

The route then enters the majestic Aïtone forest, home to slender laricio pines and crystal-clear natural pools. The shade is welcome and the atmosphere cooler, almost alpine.

The last ten kilometres are steeper, at around 6%, until you reach the Niolu region via the summit of the Col de Vergio. At an altitude of 1,477 metres, the panorama opens up onto a mineral and pastoral world, emblematic of the Corsican interior.

An immersive, progressive stage, where every pedal stroke brings you closer to the beating heart of the island's mountains.