Presentation
Dio-et-Valquières emerges from the red lands of Salagou and is located at the foot of the Escandorgue volcanoes, sheltered by white limestone cliffs.
This commune in the Hérault department consists of three small hamlets: Dio, Valquières, and Vernazoubres.
The landscape is diverse, combining ruffes (red earth valleys), chestnut groves, and the wild plateau of Pioch.
Four streams cross its territory: the Vernoubrel, the Garel, the Nombringuières, and the Brayou.
Located in a low mountain area, it is exposed to the north wind and the sea breeze.
Its highest altitude of 701 meters makes it an ideal location for paragliding.
With its numerous hiking trails, Dio-et-Valquières is perfect for walking, horseback riding, or mountain biking.
The stunning GR7 trail passes through the commune, dotted with dry-stone huts and crosses, following the footsteps of Saint James' pilgrims.
This path leads to Valquières, where beautiful medieval houses are grouped around a 12th-century church, covered with authentic lauzes and accessible via a stone-paved alley.
Further on, Vernazoubres nestles in a wild mid-mountain landscape, surrounded by chestnut trees and bordered by the Vernoubrel stream.
One of the jewels of the commune is the Château de Dio, an imposing fortress overlooking the village.
Its history dates back to the Visigoths and continues until the 17th century when it was renovated by the family of Cardinal de Fleury, a minister of Richelieu.
Classified as a historical monument, it hosts the "Les Médiovales" festival every year at the beginning of August.
This event brings the Middle Ages back to life with knightly battles, storytelling, games, theatrical performances, pony rides, catapult launches, and traditional paper-making demonstrations.
In terms of renewable energy, Dio-et-Valquières stands out with its wind farm, which supplies around 4,247 households, including heating.
With its exceptional living environment, combining nature and history, the commune offers a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for both professional and leisure activities.
