Gerberoy

TL;DR: Gerberoy is a fairy-tale medieval village just 90 minutes from Paris, famous for its rose-covered houses, cobblestone streets, and stunning gardens. Best visited June-July during rose season, it’s perfect for day trips, romantic getaways, and Instagram-worthy photography.

Picture this: cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses drowning in fragrant roses, artists painting en plein air, and the kind of magical atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a French fairy tale. Welcome to Gerberoy, officially one of France’s “Most Beautiful Villages” and quite possibly the most romantic spot you’ve never heard of.

What Makes Gerberoy So Special?

Gerberoy isn’t just another pretty French village – it’s a living work of art. Labeled the Most Beautiful Village in France, Gerberoy also owes its fame to the love affair Henri Le Sidaner had for it: the post-impressionist painter created magnificent Italian gardens here, which can be seen from the ramparts. This tiny village of fewer than 100 residents has managed to preserve something truly magical that larger destinations often lose.

The Village That Roses Built

If you come for a walk in the beginning of summer, you’ll be intoxicated (literally) by the scent of roses at this time of year, making Gerberoy a pleasure for all the senses. The transformation from sleepy medieval stronghold to flower-filled paradise happened thanks to one passionate artist who convinced an entire village to embrace beauty.

Getting There: Your Journey to Romance

From Paris (90 minutes)

• By Car: Take A15 to A16, exit at Beauvais Nord, then follow D901 and D133
• By Train: Take train to Beauvais, then taxi (30 minutes) or bus
• Day Trip Tours: Several operators offer Paris-Gerberoy excursions

From Other French Cities

• Amiens: 1 hour via A16
• Rouen: 1.5 hours via A28 and A16
• Reims: 2 hours via A4 and A16

Pro Tip: Parking gratuit OBLIGATOIRE indiqué à l’entrée du village – free parking is mandatory and well-signposted at the village entrance.

When to Visit: Timing Your Perfect Trip

Rose Season (May-July) – Peak Magic

Since 1928, the village has celebrated its flower with the Rose Festival, an event not to be missed, especially during peak bloom! On the 1st Sunday in June, the village is transformed into a veritable open-air garden. The 2025 Rose Festival is June 1st – mark your calendars!

Why June is magical:

• Roses at their absolute peak
• Perfect weather for wandering
• Festival atmosphere with local artisans
• Every house facade becomes a floral masterpiece

Shoulder Seasons (April, August-September)

• Fewer crowds for photography
• Some roses still blooming
• Pleasant walking weather
• Better restaurant availability

Off-Season (October-March)

• Peaceful, contemplative atmosphere
• Authentic village life
• Perfect for architecture lovers
• Some attractions may have limited hours

Top Attractions: Your Must-See List

1. Henri Le Sidaner Gardens – The Artist’s Vision

Behind the Saint-Pierre collegiate church sits a small door that marks the entrance to 43,000 sq. ft. of gardens, arranged much like an Italian garden over three levels with terraces that extend all the way up to the painter’s house.

What makes it special:

• Three-tiered Italian-style gardens
• Views over Gerberoy’s rooftops
• Original plantings from the early 1900s
• Perfect for contemplation and photography

Visiting tips:

• Enter through the small door behind the church
• Allow 45-60 minutes for full exploration
• Best light for photos: early morning or late afternoon

2. Le Jardin des Ifs – Topiary Wonderland

Gardeners and lovers of beauty will also adore Le Jardin des Ifs, a listed Jardin Remarquable with an incredible topiary yew garden. You can even sit inside a 100 year old yew tree which was awarded National Tree of the Year in France, in 2018!

Highlights:

• 17th-century symmetrical gardens
• Giant yew trees shaped into furniture
• Over 300 varieties of roses
• On-site restaurant and tea room

3. Collegiate Church of Saint-Pierre

Dating from the 11th to 15th centuries, this historic church combines Romanesque and Gothic styles. The old collegiate church of Saint Pierre in Gerberoy is a sight to be seen. Started in the 11th century, and completed in the 15th century, the oldest parts of the church are in the simple Roman style and the rest of the church is in the imposing Gothic style.

4. The Blue House (Maison Bleue)

This blue house on rue Saint-Amant served as a leitmotif for Henri le Sidaner, appearing in several of his paintings. It’s become one of the most photographed spots in the village – and for good reason!

5. Village Ramparts and Medieval Streets

Wander the cobblestone streets and discover remnants of Gerberoy’s fortified past. The ramparts are the remains of the stone wall that protected Gerberoy in the past. The ramparts and old cobblestone streets will not disappoint!

Where to Eat: Savoring Local Flavors

Le Jardin des Ifs Restaurant

The restaurant offers two menus, one is entrée (starter)/plat (main course) or plat (main course)/ dessert (dessert) for 28€ or entrée (starter)/plat (main course)/ dessert (dessert) for 35€.

Booking essential:

• Two seatings: 12:30 PM and 1:45 PM
• Reservation strongly recommended
• Seasonal menu featuring garden produce

Les Remparts

We loved our lunch at Les Remparts. We munched on local meats and cheeses and drank a deep red wine. It was perfect. Everyone at the restaurant was welcoming and friendly.

Local Specialties to Try

• Le P’tit Gerberoy: A cheese made with candied roses by renowned cheese maker Julien Planchon
• Bray Picard: A soft, local cheese made with unpasteurized cow’s milk
• Local ciders and wines from the region

Where to Stay: Romantic Accommodation

In Gerberoy

• Le Logis de Gerberoy: Five well-appointed rooms and a restaurant operating several nights per week and serving regional dishes. Rooms from €80 per night.

Nearby Options

• Beauvais (30 minutes): Full range of hotels
• Forges-les-Eaux (35 km): Spa town with thermal baths
• Local B&Bs and vacation rentals throughout the countryside

Shopping and Artisans

Art Galleries and Studios

Browse tiny art galleries and watch artists at work like Ako, a glass artist who makes exquisite jewellery right before your eyes, wielding his blow torch like a paintbrush.

What to Buy

• Original artwork by local artists
• Rose-themed products and perfumes
• Local pottery and crafts
• The famous “Rose de Gerberoy” bush for your garden

Photography Tips: Capturing the Magic

Best Spots for Instagram

1. The Blue House on Rue Saint-Amant
2. View from Le Sidaner Gardens over village rooftops
3. Cobblestone streets with rose-covered houses
4. Church entrance with climbing roses
5. Rampart views of surrounding countryside

Photography Tips

• Golden hour magic: Early morning (7-9 AM) for soft light
• Rose details: Macro shots of individual blooms
• Street scenes: Wide shots showing the village character
• Garden perspectives: Multiple levels and viewpoints

Equipment suggestions:

• Wide-angle lens for street scenes
• Macro lens for flower details
• Tripod for stable shots in gardens

Day Trip Itinerary: Making the Most of Your Visit

Half-Day Visit (3-4 hours)

9:00 AM – Arrive and park 9:15 AM – Coffee and pastry at local café 9:45 AM – Explore village streets and photograph houses 10:30 AM – Visit Henri Le Sidaner Gardens 11:30 AM – Tour Collegiate Church of Saint-Pierre 12:00 PM – Lunch at Le Jardin des Ifs or Les Remparts 1:30 PM – Browse artisan shops and galleries

Full Day (6-8 hours)

Include the half-day itinerary plus: 2:30 PM – Extended time at Le Jardin des Ifs 3:30 PM – Walk the ramparts and village perimeter 4:30 PM – Tea and cake break 5:00 PM – Return to favorite spots for different lighting 6:00 PM – Aperitif with village views

Special Events: Planning Around Festivities

Annual Rose Festival (First Sunday in June)

This event, created by the painter Henri Le Sidaner, has taken place every year since 1928. The occasion to visit the Henri Le Sidaner Gardens labeled “Remarkable Garden” and enjoy multiple activities (music, car parade, local produce market, art crafts).

Festival highlights:

• Rose vendors and nurseries
• Local artisan markets
• Live music performances
• Vintage car displays
• Garden tours and demonstrations

Musical Moments Gerberoy

Summer concerts in magical village settings

Christmas Market

Local products market – Special Christmas and New year on the last Sunday of November.

Beyond Gerberoy: Exploring the Region

Nearby Attractions (within 40km)

• Saint-Germer-de-Fly (13km): Famous for its old Benedictine abbey
• Lyons-la-Forêt (36km): Also one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France. Nestled in the heart of the largest beech forest in France
• Forges-les-Eaux (35km): Historic spa town
• Beauvais (30km): Gothic cathedral and medieval architecture

Perfect for Multi-Day Tours

Combine Gerberoy with other regional highlights for a complete Picardy experience.

Practical Information

Accessibility

• Cobblestone streets may be challenging for wheelchairs
• Some garden areas have steps and uneven surfaces
• Restaurant and shop accessibility varies

Language

• Basic French helpful but not essential
• Tourist information available in English
• Many locals speak some English

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes (essential for cobblestones)
• Camera with extra batteries
• Light jacket (village can be cool even in summer)
• Cash (some small shops may not accept cards)

Weather Considerations

• Spring: Mild but potentially rainy
• Summer: Warm days, cool evenings
• Fall: Crisp and clear, perfect for photography
• Winter: Can be muddy, some attractions closed

Budget Planning

Cost Breakdown (per person)

• Transport from Paris: €30-50 (car/train)
• Lunch: €25-35 at quality restaurant
• Garden entrance: €5-8
• Parking: Free
• Souvenirs: €10-50

Daily total: €70-143 for a comfortable day trip

Money-Saving Tips

• Pack a picnic for lunch in the gardens
• Visit during off-season for fewer crowds
• Combine with other nearby villages
• Look for accommodation packages including meals

Creating Lasting Memories

Gerberoy isn’t just a destination – it’s an experience that touches all your senses. Whether you’re seeking romantic inspiration, artistic motivation, or simply a peaceful escape from modern life, this village delivers magic in abundance.

The combination of medieval architecture, artistic heritage, and natural beauty creates something truly special. Gerberoy is an inspiring place for lovers of beautiful homes and romantic gardens. You’ll be captivated, or rather seduced, by a door or shutter color whose tones complement the window frames, garden ornaments, a small wrought-iron table under an arbour, an antique English-style wooden gate…

Take your time here. Breathe in the rose-scented air. Let the village work its quiet magic on your soul. In our rushed modern world, Gerberoy offers something increasingly rare: the gift of unhurried beauty and the space to truly appreciate it.

Ready to fall in love with France all over again? Gerberoy is waiting to enchant you.

Have you visited Gerberoy? Share your favorite memories and tips in the comments below! And don’t forget to tag us in your photos – we love seeing how this magical village captures hearts around the world.