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Just 1.5 hours from Paris, one of France's most beautiful villages finally free of tourists

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The Editor

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We all know that France is brimming with charming, unique, and poetic little villages. The only problem is they're often overrun with tourists. That's exactly what happened to this delightful town in the Oise region, which thankfully has just found some semblance of peace again.

As soon as the good weather arrives, the village of Gerberoy attracts visitors by the hundreds, only to become an agoraphobe's nightmare. It has to be said that between its flower-covered facades and its old houses, it certainly knows how to inspire admiration. Happily, as autumn knocks on the door and back-to-school has pushed everyone back home, it gradually regains its peace and quiet. That's probably why this time is rather well-chosen to discover this little village in the Oise where the streets can finally breathe again.


One of the most beautiful villages in France

Located on the border between Picardy and

Normandy, Gerberoy possesses a very special charm. Here, the red bricks of the North meet Norman half-timbering, facades are covered with flowers and rose bushes literally spill over into the streets. It's no wonder this tiny village is nicknamed the village of a thousand roses. Classified among France's Most Beautiful Villages, it has only a small handful of residents year-round. And yet, its history dates back several centuries. A former medieval stronghold, the village long occupied a strategic position between several territories. Today, it has mostly become a peaceful haven for heritage lovers, garden enthusiasts and those seeking bucolic walks. But especially for tourists, who flock here by the hundreds to discover this gem. 


An undeniable autumn charm

And while we certainly won't criticize all the visitors who flock there to admire the city in bloom, we do want to point out that it also has plenty to offer when autumn arrives. Indeed, as the roses fade along with the tourists, the little streets become more peaceful, more pleasant. Everything is dressed in warm colors that make you want to harvest pumpkins and sip pumpkin spice lattes galore. The diverse facades take center stage in this breathtaking landscape. You stroll through this village with such a unique atmosphere that inspired painter Henri Le Sidaner, and especially the gardens named in his honor (open simply on weekends during

the low season, watch out!). In short, Gerberoy is a getaway you simply cannot miss, no matter the season!