The peak of the Tafunatu is seen as a rocky spire above the hut. It looks highly improbable but for those with rock-climbing experience, can be ascended by an ingenious and circuitous line. Capu Tafunatu means 'Perforated head', which is explained by the huge hole in the mountain that gives the peak its name.
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| Beneath the hole of the Tafunatu |
To make an ascent, walk towards the Col des Maures, then gain a left-slanting shelf. Go back right to gain the hole. A rightward traverse leads fairly easily above a big drop. It's a bit like Jacks Rake on Pavey Ark in the Lake District. At the far end, it becomes more indistinct. You need to make your way up to a chimney (III) which is climbed to gain the summit block. Go round to the right until the block can be surmounted. What a climb! Return the same way.
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| The exposed line right from the Tafunatu |
After a breather at the hut, follow the GR20 to the Refuge Managanu, taking the opportunity to bathe in one of the delectable green pools that lie some way beneath the Refuge Ciutullu di i Mori. A forested section provides some relief from the sea of rock, before the trail rises to cross a broad ridge to the soft beauty of the Lac de Nino, the peaks of the next day forming a spectacular backdrop.
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| Lac de Nino |