The Trail des Côtes Matras starts in Noyant-d'Allier, a small village in the Allier department of central France, held in early April. This event offers both running and walking options: runners can select 7 km, 16 km, or 30 km courses, with a non-timed 7 km option for a relaxed start. Walkers have their own routes, including 7 km and 15 km choices, making the day suitable for beginners, regular trail runners, and locals seeking outdoor activity.
The courses follow existing walking paths through the Bourbonnais bocage, featuring forest trails, hills, and sufficient elevation gain for the longer distances to feel like genuine trail races; the 30 km route includes approximately 450 meters of elevation gain. The 16 km and 30 km races go past the Belvédère des Côtes Matras, offering participants a broad view of the Bourbonnaise countryside and nearby mountains. A unique addition is a guided 7 km walk detailing the mining history of Châtillon and Noyant. The village contributes its own character to the event: Noyant-d'Allier is home to a significant Asian community, and an Asian meal prepared by Le Petit d'Asie, the local Vietnamese restaurant, is part of the evening's festivities.