Vexin à Vélo, a shot of chlorophyll 1 hour from Paris

How about escaping to a bit of nature and poetry just a few hours from Paris? Set off to discover the bucolic and artistic Vexin and take a deep breath of fresh air by cycling the 33.2 km cycle loop in Auvers-sur-Oise!

An itinerary at the heart of French Impressionism 🚴🏻‍♀️ 🖼

🚴‍♂️🌟 We set off to discover the charming village of Auvers-sur-Oise, which was home to many Impressionist artists, including the famous Vincent van Gogh. Step back in time and feel the inspiration that nurtured these masters of painting along the way. 🎨🏡

🚲💚 The first few kilometers of the ride will take you along the Oise valley, offering magnificent views over the green hills of the Vexin. Be prepared for a few climbs, but the reward is well worth it! 🌿🍃

🌞🏞️ You'll then reach the maximum altitude of 126 meters, where a spectacular panorama unfolds before you. Take a break, breathe in the fresh air and admire the breathtaking views! 🌄🌻

🚴‍♀️🎢 The descent that follows is a real rollercoaster for cycling enthusiasts, with a negative gradient of 288 meters. Roll down the hills and feel the adrenaline rush! 🌬️🚀

🌳🚲 The rest of the ride takes you through charming villages, wooded paths and picturesque fields. The route is super signposted so chill out... relax and look up to enjoy the journey 💚

Here's the itinerary in detail:

➡️ The Château d'Auvers-sur-Oise 🏯

At the Château d'Auvers-sur-Oise, we go back in history to the 17th century, when this magnificent edifice came into being. More recently, the château has undergone a complete restoration, transforming it into a heritage gem. In fact, the château and its gardens are so special that they are included in the supplementary inventory of historic monuments. A real nugget to discover!

➡️ L'Auberge Ravoux 🏨

L'Auberge Ravoux is a hidden treasure in Auvers-sur-Oise 🫣. Not to be missed! This is the place where painter Vincent Van Gogh lived his last days and where he died, RIP. The inn has retained its old-world charm, offering visitors a real plunge into the past. Van Gogh's bedroom has been preserved in its original state. Today, it is a place of pilgrimage for fans of the artist. For those who want to go all the way, you can also eat at the inn!

➡️ L'Église Saint-Quentin de Valmondois

Valmondois, a hidden gem in the French Vexin, is proud to present its Église Saint-Quentin. Nestled in the heart of this charming village, this church with its picturesque architecture is a veritable nugget of local heritage. Strolling through its surroundings, visitors can't help but be seduced by the sacred character of this edifice, with its soaring bell tower and walls that tell the story of centuries of history. The Église Saint-Quentin de Valmondois is much more than a religious monument, it's a symbol of the preservation of the cultural memory of this enchanting region. A must-see for all lovers of history, architecture and discovery

➡️ Le Couvent des Cordeliers de Pontoise

Nestled in the heart of the city, this 13th-century convent evokes monastic history and Gothic architecture. Visitors can wander through its elegant arcades and soak up the serenity that emanates from this place. Once a place of meditation and prayer, the Couvent des Cordeliers is now a gateway to the past, inviting visitors to discover the spiritual soul of Pontoise while exploring its picturesque alleyways and cultural treasures. A visit that harmoniously blends history, architecture and the peaceful atmosphere of this charming French town. 🏰

➡️ The village of Auvers-sur-Oise itself

Finally, beyond the tour, take the time to put your foot down and wander the narrow streets of Auvers-sur-Oise, a veritable artistic gem nestled in the magnificent landscape of the French Vexin, which inspired the legendary Vincent van Gogh. This picturesque village is a veritable open-air museum, where every street corner tells an artistic story! From the Château d'Auvers to the rolling fields of wheat immortalized in van Gogh's canvases, Auvers-sur-Oise is imbued with a creative aura... who knows if you won't, in addition to the great breath of fresh air, feel like taking out your paintbrushes again? 🖼 🎨