Share a tip on a trip to France

In an effort to celebrate the authentic, the untouched, and the truly memorable, The Guardian Travel section is launching an exciting initiative: a call for readers to uncover and share their favourite under-the-radar places in France. This competition seeks to highlight those quiet havens, secret spots, and lesser-known gems where the spirit of France thrives away from the bustling crowds. Whether it’s an underrated city break destination brimming with local character, a little-known museum or gallery offering profound cultural insights, a picturesque village seemingly frozen in time, an expansive national park whispering tales of wild beauty, or a secluded stretch of coastline inviting peaceful contemplation, we want to hear about your unique discoveries.

France’s Enduring Appeal and the Rise of "Slow Travel"

France’s status as a premier travel destination is well-documented. Before the recent global travel disruptions, the country consistently welcomed over 80 million international tourists annually, contributing significantly to its economy and cultural exchange. Its appeal is multifaceted: the romantic cobblestone streets of Paris, the artistic legacy of Provence, the culinary excellence of Lyon, the historical depth of Normandy, and the natural grandeur of the Alps and Pyrenees. Yet, this very success has brought with it the strains of mass tourism. Destinations like Mont Saint-Michel, the French Riviera, and central Paris can become overwhelmingly crowded, leading to diminished experiences for visitors and significant pressure on local infrastructure and communities.

In response to this, a growing number of travellers are actively seeking more authentic, sustainable, and intimate experiences – a movement often termed "slow travel" or "experiential travel." They yearn to connect with local life, support smaller businesses, and explore regions that retain their unique character. This shift isn’t just about avoiding queues; it’s about a deeper engagement with the destination, fostering a sense of discovery and personal connection that is often lost in heavily touristed areas. It’s about finding the France that locals cherish, the one that doesn’t always make it into the glossy brochures but offers profound rewards.

What Constitutes a "Hidden Corner"?

For this competition, an "under-the-radar" place can take many forms. It’s not necessarily about finding a place no one has ever heard of, but rather one that is often overlooked in favour of more prominent attractions, or a less-frequented aspect of a well-known region. We encourage submissions that unveil:

• Underrated City Break Destinations: Beyond Paris, Nice, and Bordeaux, France boasts a wealth of cities offering vibrant culture, history, and gastronomy without the same level of tourist saturation. Perhaps it’s Nantes, a city renowned for its innovative art installations and industrial heritage, including the fantastical Machines de l’île. Or Lille, a charming city in the north, boasting Flemish architecture, excellent museums, and a thriving culinary scene. Even within larger, more popular cities, there might be particular neighbourhoods or districts that remain relatively unknown to tourists, offering a different rhythm of life.
• Little-Known Museums, Galleries, or Cultural Attractions: While the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay are world-famous, France is dotted with thousands of smaller, specialised museums and cultural sites. This could be a regional art museum showcasing local masters, a quirky museum dedicated to a specific craft or historical event, an ancient abbey tucked away in the countryside, or a prehistoric cave painting site that isn’t Lascaux. For instance, the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Rennes might be overshadowed by its Parisian counterparts but houses an impressive collection from ancient to modern art. Or a lesser-known Roman ruin in a quiet corner of Occitanie.
• Beautiful Villages: France is synonymous with charming villages, many of which are officially recognised by associations like "Les Plus Beaux Villages de France." However, even within these lists, some receive far more attention than others. We’re looking for those truly serene hamlets, perhaps in areas like the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, the Jura, or the Dordogne, where traditional life continues undisturbed, and visitors can experience authentic rural French charm. Think villages with unique architectural styles, local markets, or historical significance that haven’t yet been overrun by souvenir shops.
• National Parks or Stretches of Coastline: France’s natural beauty is immense, from the rugged mountains to the pristine coastlines. While the Calanques National Park is stunning, it can be incredibly busy. Perhaps you’ve discovered a tranquil section of the Cévennes National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offering dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. Or a quieter beach in Brittany, a secluded cove along the Atlantic coast away from the glitz of Biarritz, or a less-frequented trail in the Mercantour National Park near the Italian border. These are places where nature’s grandeur can be appreciated in peace.

The Competition: Share Your Secret and Win

The Guardian Travel section is eager to tap into the collective wisdom and wanderlust of its readers. We believe that some of the most profound travel insights come from those who have truly explored, veering off the well-trodden path.

The best tip of the week, as chosen by our esteemed judge, Tom Hall of Lonely Planet, will win a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property. Tom Hall, a veteran travel editor and a prominent voice at Lonely Planet – a brand synonymous with independent, adventurous travel – brings unparalleled expertise to the judging panel. His discerning eye will be looking for originality, practicality, and the evocative power of your description.

Coolstays, the prize provider, perfectly aligns with the spirit of this competition. Renowned for curating a collection of over 3,000 unique and stylish accommodations worldwide, Coolstays specialises in properties that offer an escape from the ordinary. From boutique hotels nestled in historic towns to glamping pods in serene landscapes, luxury villas, and quirky conversions, their portfolio is designed for travellers seeking distinctive experiences and memorable stays. A £200 voucher offers a fantastic opportunity to fund a stay at one of these exceptional properties, perhaps even inspiring your next "hidden gem" discovery.

Crafting Your Winning Tip

Your submission should be concise yet compelling. Keep your tip to about 100 words, ensuring it includes essential details such as the location, an indication of price (if relevant, e.g., "affordable meals," "free entry," "modest accommodation costs"), and a website if available for further information. While we welcome accompanying photographs – and they can certainly help illustrate the beauty of your chosen spot – please remember that it’s your words we will be judging for the competition. A vivid, descriptive, and informative narrative that truly captures the essence and appeal of your hidden corner is paramount.

Eligibility and Submission Details

Due to legal considerations, this competition is exclusively open to UK residents. We appreciate the interest from our international readership, but only those residing in the United Kingdom are eligible to enter.

To submit your tip, please use the provided online form. If you encounter any difficulties with the form, a direct link is available for your convenience. We encourage you to review past winners and other inspiring tips published in our Readers’ Travel Tips series to get a sense of the style and detail that resonates with our audience. Familiarise yourself with the full terms and conditions of the competition and our privacy policy, linked within the article, before submitting your entry.

The competition is now open, and we eagerly await your submissions. Please note the strict deadline: The competition closes on Monday 23 March at 10 am GMT. Ensure your tip is submitted well in advance to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

Beyond the Prize: The Value of Sharing

Even if your tip isn’t chosen as the winner, your contribution is invaluable. By sharing these under-the-radar locations, you contribute to a richer, more diverse understanding of France, moving beyond the predictable itineraries. You help fellow travellers discover authentic experiences, support local economies in less-visited regions, and promote a more sustainable form of tourism. In an age where travel information is often commodified, the personal recommendation of a fellow explorer holds immense weight and inspires genuine adventure.

So, delve into your travel memories, consult your journals, or perhaps even plan a scouting mission if you’re fortunate enough. What is that special place in France that has captured your heart, a sanctuary away from the tourist throng? That charming bistro in an obscure village, the quietest path through a breathtaking forest, the small, family-run vineyard offering unparalleled tastings, or the serene market square where life unfolds at a gentle pace? We’d love to hear your story. Your secret could be the next unforgettable discovery for countless others.