Welcome to Hidden France, your passport to the authentic side of French life that guidebooks rarely mention. Here,I write about carefully curated destinations where local life thrives away from the tourist crowds. From secret medieval villages perched on hillsides to hidden coastal havens, each location has been personally explored and verified by locals or long-term residents.

My Hidden France guides take you beyond the usual Paris-Provence-Côte d’Azur circuit, introducing you to places where traditional French culture remains beautifully preserved. Discover family-run bistros serving generations-old recipes, ancient markets that locals still frequent daily, and enchanting towns where you’re more likely to hear animated French conversations than English tourist guides.

Each destination featured in this series has been chosen for its unique character, cultural authenticity, and ability to provide genuine French experiences. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful weekend escape, planning an off-the-beaten-path road trip, or looking to experience France as locals do, these guides will show you where to find the real heart of French culture.

Hidden France

The Lérins Islands: A Complete Guide to Visiting These Hidden Gems Near Cannes

Discover the hidden Mediterranean gems near Cannes: Lérins Islands offer a magical escape with medieval monasteries, crystal-clear waters, historic fortresses, and untouched natural beauty just...

Château de la Napoule: A Fairytale Castle Where Art Meets the Sea

Discover the enchanting Château de la Napoule, a hidden gem on the French Riviera. Explore this medieval castle transformed by American artists, with stunning sea views, unique sculptures, and...

Gourdon Village: A Hidden Gem in the French Riviera with the Most Incredible Views!

Discover Gourdon, a hidden medieval village in the French Riviera perched 760m high with panoramic coastal views. Experience kayaking in Gorges du Loup, paragliding, cycling routes, and authentic...

Hidden Gems of the French Riviera: 7 Magical Places that You should NOT miss

Discover the French Riviera's best-kept secrets! From medieval Gourdon to the perfume paradise of Grasse, explore these enchanting hidden gems that'll make you fall in love with the real Côte d'Azur...

Tourrettes-sur-Loup: The Medieval Village of Violets Hidden in the French Riviera

If you are going to the French Riviera, then you should not miss this incredible medieval village that french people would like to keep secret!...

Beaugency, a village escape in France

Discover Beaugency, a hidden treasure in the Loire Valley, France. Experience authentic French culture away from tourist crowds with this local's guide to one of France's best-kept secrets...

Lesser-Known Châteaux of the Loire Valley: 7 Hidden Gems Beyond the Famous Castles

Explore 7 hidden gem châteaux in the Loire Valley, like Amboise & Chenonceau. Discover offbeat castles for a unique French adventure!...

Discover the 7 Best Hidden Villages in Central and Southern France for Authentic Experiences

Uncover France's best-kept secrets! From charming cobblestone streets to local cuisines, immerse yourself in true French culture...