The Guardian is calling on British travellers to unveil their hidden coastal gems in a new competition that promises to reward the best insider tip with a generous holiday voucher.
Dreaming of Sun-Drenched Shores
As winter loosens its grip, many of us begin to yearn for warmer days and idyllic getaways. The newspaper's travel section is now actively seeking recommendations for Europe's most captivating yet overlooked beaches. They are particularly interested in spots that lie beyond the well-trodden tourist trails—secluded bays, intimate coves, and sandy stretches that have so far escaped the notice of the holidaying masses.
How to Enter and Win
To participate, you must share the location of your chosen beach and explain what makes it so special, all within roughly 100 words. The competition is exclusively open to UK residents aged 18 and over, and the deadline for entries is 10am GMT on Monday 5 January 2026.
The most compelling submission will be selected by travel expert Tom Hall of Lonely Planet. The winner will receive a £200 voucher to be used with Coolstays, a company boasting a portfolio of over 3,000 unique properties worldwide. The top tips will also be published in the Guardian's Travel section and on its website.
Competition Details and Guidelines
While entrants are welcome to submit a relevant photograph, the judging will be based solely on the written description. All entries must be submitted via the Guardian's encrypted online form, which ensures responses remain secure and confidential. The data provided will be used only for the purpose of this feature and subsequently deleted.
This initiative follows a series of successful reader tip features, with past winners offering inspiration for those looking to discover Europe's hidden coastal paradises.
