Le Castel is the fortified hilltop complex at the southern end of the island — the only real high ground on Gorée. Fortifications from multiple periods are layered here, from early colonial-era defences to twentieth-century bunkers. The bunkers were later occupied by a religious community, giving the place an unusual, lived-in quality.
The main reason to climb up is the view: Dakar's skyline spreads out across the water, and the whole island is laid out below. On a clear day the walk up is worth it for that alone.