The Book Cave (giant secondhand bookseller)

La Caverne aux Livres boasts tens of thousands of second-hand books covering an incredibly wide array of domains. You can find everything from religion, cuisine, and animals to travel, history, and literature. It's a treasure trove for bibliophiles, with new discoveries around every corner.

Yes, the charming area around Auvers-sur-Oise offers various walking paths and trails suitable for gentle strolls and family-friendly outings. These routes wind through the picturesque landscapes that inspired artists like Van Gogh, providing a lovely complement to your visit to the bookstore.

Absolutely. La Caverne aux Livres is conveniently located right next to the Auvers-sur-Oise train station, making it exceptionally easy to reach by public transport. It's a popular day trip destination from Paris, offering a cultural escape without the need for a car.

Given its location right by the train station, there is often parking available in the vicinity of the station and the bookstore. For those looking to access nearby trails, additional parking spots might be found closer to specific trailheads within Auvers-sur-Oise. It's advisable to arrive earlier on busy days to secure a spot.

Yes, La Caverne aux Livres is an indoor attraction and can be enjoyed year-round, making it a perfect destination regardless of the weather. Its unique setting within old train wagons and a goods hall provides a cozy and enchanting escape, especially on colder days.

Auvers-sur-Oise, being a popular tourist destination, offers several cafes and restaurants within walking distance of La Caverne aux Livres. You can find options for a quick coffee, a light lunch, or a more substantial meal to refuel after browsing books or exploring the local trails.

Beyond the vast collection of books, the interior is celebrated for its eclectic and quirky decorations. Visitors often discover unusual elements like a suspended bathtub, a gas mask, and a Japanese parasol, which contribute to its distinct, almost 'Harry Potter-like' atmosphere. The old postal train cars also retain historical features like a stove signed 'La Poste' and original letter-sorting compartments.

While the bookstore itself might have restrictions for pets, the surrounding countryside of Auvers-sur-Oise generally offers many opportunities for dog-friendly walks. Many of the local paths and trails are suitable for exploring with your canine companion, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of the region together.

The unique concept was initiated in 1989 by Philippe Véry, a bibliophile who sought a large space for his collection. He eventually found the goods hall and incorporated three old SNCF train wagons, sourced from Gare du Nord, to house the bookstore. In 2020, two of these wagons were repainted to their historical burgundy color, reflecting their past as pre-war postal vans.

Auvers-sur-Oise is known for its picturesque landscapes that inspired Impressionist painters. While La Caverne aux Livres itself is an indoor attraction, the town and its surrounding hills offer several scenic spots and viewpoints. Exploring the walking paths will lead you to charming vistas of the Oise River valley and the historic village.

To fully appreciate the vast collection and unique atmosphere, it's recommended to allocate at least 1 to 2 hours for browsing. Many visitors find themselves captivated for longer, especially if they enjoy discovering hidden gems among the tens of thousands of books. If you plan to combine it with exploring Auvers-sur-Oise, a half-day or full-day trip is ideal.