A stone’s throw from Paris, where the gentle murmur of the Oise intertwines with the rivers of time, nestles Auvers-sur-Oise, a little gem of Île-de-France. It is here that Vincent van Gogh, this tormented genius of color, cast his incisive gaze on a landscape which, under his brushstroke, is transformed into a vibrant picture of life. Between golden fields and picturesque streets, each corner of this town is the scene of a silent dialogue between the artist and his environment. Let’s embark together on this artistic exploration, where the magic of Van Gogh awakens the senses and where each step invites us to dive into the very soul of nature.
The charming town of Auvers-sur-Oise, nestled on the banks of the Oise and backed by a chalk cliff, is imbued with the tormented and luminous soul of Van Gogh. A visit to this small town is a real journey through time, an immersion in the impressionist universe of the painter. For lovers of art and culture, a stopover in Auvers-sur-Oise is a must.
Van Gogh and the Oise
In 1890, Vincent Van Gogh spent seventy days in Auvers-sur-Oise, a period marked by frenzied artistic production. Strolling on the banks of the Oise, the painter is inspired by the little houses with pastel shutters, the alleys flowered with hollyhocks and sunflowers. A serene atmosphere then emerges, seeming suspended in time.
During these few months, Van Gogh produced thirty-three drawings and seventy-three paintings. Although his works are today scattered in the greatest museums in the world, Auvers-sur-Oise offers magnificent reproductions, exhibited in the very places where they were created.
Van Gogh’s emblematic places
While traveling through Auvers-sur-Oise, several sites particularly attract the attention of Van Gogh enthusiasts:
- Town Hall Square: A reproduction of the painting from July 14, 1890 testifies to the painter’s tormented state of mind at that time.
- Rue de la Sansonne: Discover “The Staircase” and “Tree Roots”, two striking works created by Van Gogh.
- The Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church: Immortalized by Van Gogh, this 12th century church is presented in a magical and timeless setting.
Pilgrimage to the Ravoux inn
No visit to Auvers-sur-Oise would be complete without a visit to the Auberge Ravoux, also known as “Van Gogh’s House”. It was here that the artist spent his last days, living on full board for only 3.50 francs. The room where he died, bare and moving, is only accessible by guided tour.
The simplicity of the dining room, where Van Gogh took his meals alone, is touching. Sitting in their place, tasting cheese, cold meats and bread, allows everyone to feel a unique connection with the artist.
The eternal fields of Vexin
Just behind the Auvers cemetery, stretches the vast plain of French Vexin. Immortalized in the famous painting “Wheatfield with Ravens”, this expanse opens a direct window into the past. Reproductions of Van Gogh’s works line the paths, immersing visitors in the very landscapes that inspired the artist.
Auvers Castle and its gardens
Don’t miss the Château de Léry, a historic building built in 1635, which regularly hosts exhibitions, including one dedicated to Van Gogh’s last travels. Surrounded by terraced gardens and lush flowerbeds, this castle is a true haven of peace offering a perspective on four centuries of history.
Travelogue
Go
From Paris, take line J at Saint-Lazare station to Pontoise, then line H to Auvers-sur-Oise. The trip costs around €5.
Housing
- Gîte du Valambourg : Historic guest house. From €107 per night. Tel.: 06 85 11 64 67
- House of Tits : Friendly cottage outside the city center. Weekend from €242. Tel.: 06 60 92 66 70
- Gîte l’Atelier : Former painter’s workshop near the castle. From €97 in summer. Tel.: 06 65 18 84 03
- Daphne barge : Original accommodation in the Oise. From 150€ (breakfast included). Tel.: 01 30 36 18 88
Ask about
For more information, contact the Auvers-sur-Oise Tourist Office. Buy the connected magnet (€9) to ask Vincent questions. Tel.: 01 30 36 71 81.
For art lovers or simply the curious, a visit to Auvers-sur-Oise is a total immersion in the world of Van Gogh and an encounter with the timeless beauty of Île-de-France.
