Roquessels

Built in an amphitheatre at the foot of a steep rock, the village of Roquessels is dominated by ancient feudal remains.

Built into the rocky hillside, the "Notre Dame" chapel and the seigniorial castle date back to the 12th century. The remains of the castle can still be seen today: the ruins of the ramparts and a square tower sit proudly on the "rock" (the walls on the north and south sides were built on sheer rock). Adjoining the castle is the Notre-Dame de Roquessels chapel, with magnificent Romanesque windows, thick three-sided walls and a Roman baptismal font. Traces of a staircase carved partly into the rock can still be seen. The view from these heights is remarkable, from the Mont de la Guardiole and the coastal towns of Sète and Agde to the Pyrenees and the Pic du Canigou. The small gardens and steep streets, which open onto paths leading through Mediterranean forests, vineyards and olive groves, are the starting point for pleasant walks and hikes.

The Thongue river runs through the village. A footpath takes you up to the heights, as far as the chapel, where you can enjoy the view. Picnic tables are available for visitors. From the village, a number of footpaths offer attractive walks.