We visited Gerberoy in March 2022, the village was wonderfully quiet and peaceful but being early in the year we missed the floral delights of roses and wisteria which adorn many buildings and the wonderful garden. This Beau Village is highly recommended and is only two and a half hours from Calais

The village of Gerberoy is located towards the west of the Oise department of northern France (hence in the Picardy region). It is found close to Rouen (to the west), Amiens (to the north-east) and Beauvais (to the east).

Officially classified as one of the 'most beautiful villages in France', Gerberoy is best known for its picturesque 17th-18th century cottages. Many of these are half-timbered while others are built in traditional brick.

The narrow streets and alleys through the village also contain an abundance of flowers and gardens (especially roses and wisterias) that line the streets and clamber up the buildings.

Together these elements combine to make Gerberoy a very attractive village to explore with the period from late spring to the end of July the best time to visit if possible, to see the flowers at their best. Even better, visit on the third Sunday in June when the Gerberoy flower festival takes place.

Interestingly, the transformation of the village from quiet backwater to popular tourist attraction took place at the start of the 20th century and was due to one man, an artist called Henri le Sidaner. Sidaner moved here and planted roses both in his own garden, elsewhere in Gerberoy, and around the ruined fort, starting a trend among the villagers and the re-birth and rediscovery of this once important medieval town.

Today you can visit his lovely terraced garden which is laid out in various colour themes. He has also added a kiosk based on the 'temple of love' built for Marie Antoinette in the Trianon gardens. This has been built on the ruins of the ancient fortress that once defended Gerberoy.

Music from: Pixabay.com Many thanks

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