In response to another post about pretty small towns in Europe, someone, ppossibly Rex, responded that Gisors in Normandy was wonderful. I asked, but never got an answer, what makes it such a standout? We'll be in Normandy in September and I'm wondering if I should detour to include this place in our itinerary. Thanks to anyone who has info to share.

Other than being a nice little French village, it has a beautiful chateau and a very pretty cathedral St. Gervais & St. Protais. It has its share of charming narrow streets and old buildings. One can't say it's the most beautiful village in France, but it is pretty nice.

Sounds worthy of a detour. Thanks.

Wayne's answer is as good as I can give - - just seems to be the kind of place that french families like to go for a sunday afternoon - - the castle is bigger than most city blocks and mostly just a nice grassy park in the center.<BR><BR>No particularly "tourist infrastructure" for english speakers. I agree that it is not so much "spectacular" as authentic, pleasant, unspoiled - - a pretty small town of french people for french people.<BR><BR>Best wishes,<BR><BR>Rex<BR>

to the top<BR>

Thanks Rex. It's only nominally off the path I've planned to take us from Honfluer to Ermononville on our last day in France so it looks like we can take it in and see for ourselves. Sounds very pleasant.

You're welcome.<BR>

Hello. I am going to be in Gisors for a wedding reception and will be cutting out early to (hopefully) visit Vernon and Giverny. I'm looking for a means of transportation that will not entail taking the train back to Paris and then turning right back around for Vernon. None of the car rental agencies in Gisors have automatic cars and I'm embarassed to admit that I can't drive stick. Any advice?

Do you have time to learn to drive a stick shift before you go? Maybe one from a rental agency at home or a family member?

It's a skill worth acquiring if you're going to spend any time at all in Europe.

We've tried that

It looks like I'm taking a cab! I actually considered biking it, but I'll have a wheelie with me. Unless there is some new-fangled wheelie attachment for bikes.