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The start is from Casteil and not from Sahorre as indicated on the guide.
From Villefranche-de-Conflent (N116), turn left towards Vernet-les-Bains (D116) then Casteil (D116).
From Casteil, a small tarmac road near the town hall leads to Coll de Jou.
After that, the track is closed to all traffic. Regulations in place since spring 2020.
Yellow markings
(S/E) From the herringbone car park, continue on almost flat ground along the Piste de Mariailes, which is closed to all motorised traffic heading south.
At the 1158m altitude, in the hairpin bend to the left, leave this track and continue to the right, still heading south along a wide path/track. Pass the Còrrec de Marquirols (thalweg). The path/track turns west. You’ll reach a large open area with an old concrete building on your left.
(1) At the signpost, continue along a small track that turns left at a right angle, heading into the forest whilst remaining at the same level. You will emerge into a vast grazing area. The track turns south-east as it leaves the forest. Pass the ruins of the old lime kiln. Continue south-east. The path continues through the forest, marked by old yellow signposts which you must look out for and follow. At around 1,290 m, cross the Torrent du Tonet. The path then turns south-west, then west, remaining almost level. You will reach a fork in the path, with a spring and theGRP® Tour des Réserves Naturelles.
Red and yellow markings
(2) Turn left onto theGRP®®, climbing steeply along an excellent path, sometimes stony, which winds through this beautiful forest. You’ll emerge into a small clearing at the Collada de Botifarra (the ‘black pudding’ pass!).
(3) Continue along this well-marked path. The gradient increases and the path straightens out, eventually leading onto a track at an altitude of 1702 meters with a signpost. It indicates the location of Mates Roges: which is incorrect.
(4) Continue left along this track heading north-east, almost level. You will then reach a large open area called Mates Roges (shrubs, grasses, red lettuce).
A lovely sheltered spot, ideal for a break.
(5) Continue south-east along a wide, motorable track towards Mariailles. After 200 m, at an altitude of 1752 metres, ignore the path on the left leading to Le Randé (signposted). Continue along the track towards the Refuge de Mariailles. Pass the Còrrec (saddle) of Mariailles. The track turns north-east. You arrive at a large area with a spring, an unmanned forest refuge, the Refuge de Mariailles, benches and a car park that is now closed to the public. Head towards the large refuge, signposted.
‘’A lovely spot with a beautiful view, perfect for a break.’’
Red and white markings
(6) Turn left onto theGR®® 10 -GR®® 36. This path is magnificent. Pass a valley and follow a canal for a long stretch. Arrive at a clearing in the forest at the Randé car park, now closed to the public.
(7) Continue to the right on theGR®® 10 -GR®® 36. Ignore the path branching off to the right towards the Cabane de Morà. 100 m further on after this junction, reach the Coll del Cavall Mort (Dead Horse Pass).
(8) Continue to follow the red and white markings heading due north.
(9) A little further on, before turning and descending to the left, there is a very pretty viewpoint at Les Esquerdes (a steep, straight rocky ridge, cut by deep gorges).
(10) Another car park, now closed to the public. Follow the path to the right which descends parallel to the track, still on theGR®® 10 -GR®® 36. You’ll reach Coll de Creu (Col de la Croix) in an open area on the right-hand side.
‘’A very beautiful spot, perfect for a break.’’
(11) A developed and secure area with a beautiful view. Continue due west, still following the red and white markings. You’ll come to an underground fire tank on your left further down; head down the track and turn left to reach the Coll de Jou (S/E).
Visorando Member
Moderate 
