Discover Villemolaque: History, Church and Hiking Trail

Villemolaque brings together several highlights for a stay: local history, Romanesque architecture, picturesque streets and the “Sur Les Pas des Templiers” hiking trail. There is also an educational farm and a wine cellar visit. Depending on which of these appeals to you, you can plan visits and a hike accordingly. The church combines Romanesque architecture with the raising of the choir to fortify it; the hiking trail passes named places in the village and runs through vineyards.

History and Architecture

The first recorded mention of Villemolaque dates back to 981 and refers to the area of VILLAM MULACAM. Until the Revolution, the history of the village was closely linked to the priory of “MONASTIR.” An early name for the area and a connection to the priory that lasted until the Revolution are therefore among the village’s historical points of reference.

The Église Saint-Julien-et-Sainte-Basilisse is Romanesque and dedicated to Saint Julien and Saint Basselisse. Its single-nave layout and semicircular apse give the architecture two clearly distinguishable features: a single main space and a rounded end. In the 13th and 14th centuries, the choir was raised to improve the village’s fortifications. The church thus brings together its religious dedication, Romanesque design and a specific defensive modification.

Villemolaque’s picturesque streets are also worth exploring. They add another element to the village’s character alongside the church and give your visit a broader focus than architecture alone.

“Sur Les Pas des Templiers” Hiking Trail

The hiking trail is 10 km long and takes 2 hours and 30 minutes. It starts on Rue de la Marinade near the statue of the “catalan au porró.” In Villemolaque, the route passes Place de la Mairie, goes by the Cortal and its Cossi, and continues along Carrer del Mitg. It also runs through vineyards edged by clay-rich soils. Named places in the village are thus combined with a specific description of the landscape. The distance and duration give you an idea of how much time to allow; check local access conditions before setting out.

Plan Additional Places to Visit

La Ferme Saint Roch is an educational farm with 300 animals across 3 hectares. Access may vary by season; check current visiting options before your visit. In 2026, Domaine Les Conques welcomes visitors to its wine cellar by prior appointment with the winemaker. The visiting arrangements differ considerably: at the farm, take account of seasonal access, while a cellar visit requires an appointment in advance.

The farm and wine cellar add further visiting arrangements to consider when planning. You can organize your days around whether you want to prioritize exploring the village, going for a hike or visiting a particular place.

Discover more destinations: Montauriol, Formiguères, Le Perthus, Arboussols, Canaveilles, Joch, Saint-Hippolyte, Canet-En-Roussillon

Return to the regional travel overview: Pyrénées-Orientales.