Capital of the Vexin Normand
Located at the frontier between the Vexin Normand and Vexin Français areas, the stronghold town of Gisors featured large in the power struggles between the dukes of Normandy and the kings of France in medieval times.
The castle stronghold dominating the town of Gisors was built in the 11th century on an older castle mound and still bears witness to troubled medieval times. Legend has it that the place once housed the treasure of the extremely wealthy Knights Templar.
Opposite the castle stands the collegiate church of Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais, dating from the 12th century. It was built with the dimensions of a cathedral and its mixed architecture reflects the changing styles at that period.
Custom route
Custom route
3 Chaussy / Gisors
This stage has both intimacy and grandeur. Here the little bridges, windmills and fortified castles of the peaceful Epte Valley contrast with the touristic bustle of the village of Giverny. The many miles of greenway created between Gasny and Gisors provide the ideal opportunity to really appreciate the bucolic landscapes punctuated by the river and several lakes. But don’t forget that you are also on the old frontier between France and Normandy which takes you towards the legendary chateau of Gisors.
4 Gisors / St-Germer-de-Fly
Leaving Gisors, the tiny roads follow the Epte Valley between the wooded hills of Vexin. You will then travel between peat lands, wet meadows and limestone meadows covered with large numbers of orchids in spring.
The Oise and the Normandy tracks converge to a single main track close the the famous abbey of Saint-Germer-de-Fly.
The Oise and the Normandy tracks converge to a single main track close the the famous abbey of Saint-Germer-de-Fly.