Park in the car park on the edge of the D172, located almost opposite the Relais de la Vallée restaurant.
This route is partly marked in yellow and partly in red and white by the GR®36.
Another possible starting point, to warm up before the initial climb, is La Condomine.
See details in the Practical Information section.
GR®36 red and white markings and yellow markings
(S/E) Opposite the Relais de la Vallée, turn right to reach the start of the trail. Walk very carefully along the road and pass the speed bump about ten metres ahead. At the sign for "Point de vue et ruines du château Saint-Raphaël" (viewpoint and ruins of Saint-Raphaël Castle), cross the D172 even more carefully. Begin the long and steep climb.
(1) At the large schist rocks, turn around to enjoy the view of the valley, the village and its isthmus. The peninsula is dominated by the priory, visible in the distance. Continue and climb up to the wide white track in front of the antenna service road.
(2) Turn right and head for the Col du Caufour, 393 m.
(3) Pass a huge concrete cross on your left and take the grassy track. The path leads to an old, almost abandoned farm, La Canague.
After passing the farm, the track continues along a road and reaches a crossroads near a wrought iron cross.
(4) Turn right before the cross and continue for about 100 metres.
Yellow markings
(5) Leave theGR®36temporarily by turning left towards the entrance to Les Cabannes.
(6) Turn immediately right at the signpost. Walk along the farm's vegetable garden. Go through a gate, then turn left into the meadow. Go through a second gate and turn left.
The narrow path widens further on, then narrows again. The long descent is sometimes steep. You will arrive in front of the Cantemerle service road.
(7) Continue on to reach Pounis and rejoin theGR®36.
GR®36 red and white markings and yellow markings
(8) Continue to the Route de d'Oubièges.
Yellow markings
(9) Leave theGR® by turning left. Near the junction with the D172, keep to the right. Pass the recycling containers on your left and stop at the corner of Rue du Riou Dal Bosc.
(10) Turn left and go through the tunnel under the D172. Follow Rue de la Heath to the right and go to the end of the street, in front of a large grassy area near the D172.
(11) Turn onto the grassy path to approach the river and follow it. It is a dirt path composed of pebbles and various roots, which are more or less invasive. The path varies in slope and altitude, rising at the end. A few steps and cables are a great help in reaching the D172. Head left to find the car park (S/E).