With an age range between 18 and 52, a rank structure encompassing Officer-Cadet to Commander, and all three military services represented (plus a civil-servant thrown in for good measure), the 19 expedition members of Conca Quest may have been diverse, but they were united in a singular aim. This was to tackle a mountain trek in Corsica, known as the ‘GR 20’ and notoriously billed as ‘the toughest hike in Europe’!

After a gruelling convoy drive through France, the team sailed from Nice to Calvi and were immediately in the shadow of the adventure to follow. Corsica is a small Mediterranean island dominated by its craggy mountain range and the challenge loomed large as we acclimatised over a few beers that first night!

Over the next 14 days, our team ascended high into the clouds, undergoing a true baptism of fire in the initial stages of the trek, as we adjusted to heavy packs, relentless, thigh-burning gradients and a diet consisting mainly of noodles. An early highlight was the exposed and committing scramble through a section known as the ‘cirque de solitude’; where iron rungs and steel cables provided a white-knuckle safety line on sheer rock faces. Nights were spent under the stars in bivy sacks where younger team members quickly adapted to the liberating experience of self-sufficiency in the elements!

The scenery was stunning, the trekking was demanding, and it is safe to say that all expedition members were proud and relieved when we finished our quest and descended safely into Conca, where our trusty support crew were waiting. The excitement did not end here as the team immediately launched into a comprehensive R&R package, including canyoning, water-sports and horse riding.

Throughout the expedition, there were numerous challenges to overcome. These included evacuating one Midshipman off the mountain due to a nasty gash to her head; assisting with the air evacuation of a civilian with heat injury and the sheer, ongoing logistic efforts required to sustain an expedition of 19 (mainly inexperienced) people! On top of this was our unique ‘hearts and minds’ effort of hoisting a colossal dog (aptly named Spud) through a particularly tricky section and relentlessly attempting to communicate charmingly with the somewhat taciturn locals!

Conca Quest was a highly successful expedition which introduced a large number of young reservists from Thunderer Squadron to the spirit, ethos and thrills involved in Adventure Training. It was tough but it was well worth it and the valuable experiences gained will not fade quickly. Viva la Corse!

Capt Sophie Walters