Roc la Tour

Roc la Tour is an archaeological site featuring three natural quartzite pillars that rise 7 to 8 meters above the ground near Monthermé in the Ardennes forest. The formations were shaped by natural erosion and stand out as distinctive rock structures in the woodland setting.

Excavations from 1980 to 1986 revealed human settlements dating back 15,000 years at this location. These discoveries established it as one of the oldest sites in the Ardennes with evidence of regular visitation in antiquity.

The name references an ancient stronghold that local legend connects to a lord's supernatural bargain. This tale remains part of how people understand and remember this place in the Ardennes.

The site sits at 400 meters elevation in the Château-Regnault state forest and is accessible via a hiking trail. A 7.6-kilometer route begins from Thilay church square and leads to this location.

The site contains over 40 climbing routes ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty levels. This combination makes it a destination for climbers while also preserving its archaeological importance.

Location: Monthermé

GPS coordinates: 49.89110,4.78532

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:07