From scrumptious seafood and island-hopping adventures, to historical past and water sports activities, these are the most effective issues to do in Guernsey.
I’m about to let you know all about somewhat slice of paradise. With spectacular white sandy seashores, glittering turquoise sea, scrumptious recent seafood and a welcoming island dynamic, it would sound like I’m going to share tales of a visit to the Caribbean or one of many Greek Islands. However no… shock! This put up is all concerning the underrated island of Guernsey within the Channel Islands.
I couldn’t imagine that after spending underneath an hour on a aircraft we may contact down someplace fairly so totally different from the place we’d left behind. The excitement of London’s roads appeared far-off.
Over the subsequent few days I went on a mission to see and do as a lot as potential. We employed a automobile from the airport and set off to uncover what makes Guernsey tick.
I actually liked our time on the island and I’m so excited to share why I fell in love with Guernsey… and why I believe you’ll too!
Whether or not you’re visiting in a pair (as we did), as a household or going solo, there are many wonderful issues to do in Guernsey. You’ll be able to take it simple with leisurely strolls to fairly viewpoints and relaxed meals by the seaside. For those who stay life at a sooner tempo, you would rent bikes to zoom across the island, be a part of a kayak tour or discover Guernsey’s neighbours on an island-hopping journey.
I noticed loads of children who had been having a whale of a time in Guernsey, particularly on the seashores! Throughout the summer season months it’s a basic bucket and spade vacation spot. Children will love working out and in of the ocean, constructing sandcastles and refuelling with ice cream.
No matter you take note of on your journey, I’m right here to assist with some suggestions and solutions on the place to go, what to do and how one can take advantage of out of island life.
25 Superb Issues to do in Guernsey
Go for a cliff stroll on Guernsey’s south coast
You’re by no means removed from the ocean in Guernsey, so that you’ll have loads of nice views as you drive across the island. Certainly one of my favorite walks was from Petit Port to Moulin Huet Bay. It takes you alongside the steep cliffs on the island’s south coast the place the surroundings is wilder and extra rugged.
For those who can, I’d advocate timing this stroll for mid / low tide (examine tide occasions here) as rocky coves and secret bays can be uncovered. I discovered myself taking images each few steps, because the view modified and the panoramas grew to become much more spectacular. For those who fancy a relaxation, there are many benches alongside the path, or you possibly can refuel with a cuppa and a scone with jam and cream at Moulin Huet Tea Rooms.
Go to the Little Chapel
A couple of minutes’ drive from the airport is that this lovely chapel adorned with mosaics, ceramics and shells. Measuring simply 9ft by 16ft, it’s an unbelievable murals. It’s truly the third tiny chapel to face on this website, every being a tad bigger than the earlier! The unique chapel was constructed to resemble the well-known grotto and basilica discovered at Lourdes in France.
It received’t take you lengthy to stroll by means of the Little Chapel, though I’ll admit I used to be stunned by how massive it was inside. There are three small rooms to see and you’ll mild a candle inside too. Remember to have a look at all of the intricate particulars of the mosaics and shards of ceramics. Even the steps outdoors are adorned!
The Little Chapel is restored utilizing donations, so do go away what you possibly can within the field outdoors. There’s a carpark on the silversmiths retailer proper by the chapel, plus a present store if you wish to choose up any souvenirs.
Kayaking with Outside Guernsey
Being on an island means there are quite a lot of nice issues to do in Guernsey involving water. I’d advocate taking a look at Outdoor Guernsey’s web site and choosing an exercise to attempt. From kayaking and coasteering to wildlife excursions and get up paddle boarding, there are quite a few choices to select from.
We booked a kayak tour from Petit Bot on Guernsey’s south coast. Over the course of two hours we paddled west, weaving out and in of the epic rocks, alongside small gullies and underneath rock archways.
The particular factor about this a part of the coast is what number of caves are dotted alongside the steep cliffs. We ventured inside fairly just a few, paddling inside gently because the rocks bought narrower and narrower round us. I couldn’t imagine fairly how far in they went! The views as we exited the caves had been completely magical too, with the sunshine streaming by means of, illuminating the turquoise water.
Go to the most effective seashores in Guernsey
We visited Guernsey in August and had nice climate, having fun with heat sunshine and blue skies all through. We liked exploring the assorted seashores on the island. I’d battle to choose a favorite however listed here are just a few I’d advocate visiting.
Cobo Bay is a really particular seaside, with a large stretch of white sand, turquoise water, fascinating rock formations and loads of rock swimming pools at low tide. It’s fashionable with households as there are a number of locations to remain close by, in addition to just a few eating places and retailers. The fish and chip store right here has a superb popularity too.
Fermain Bay is a a lot quieter seaside, which feels properly tucked away. You’ll be able to both drive right down to it previous the Fermain Valley Lodge, or stroll alongside the cliff path from St Peter Port.
For those who can time your seaside journey for low tide, I’d additionally advocate Moulin Huet Bay. After you’ve walked previous the tea rooms, you’ll be confronted with a fascinating seaside of pebbles, epic rocks and turquoise waters.
One other beautiful spot on the east coast is Port Soif. We visited this seaside for our seaweed tour, however I’d actually say the water is a number of the bluest I noticed on our complete journey. Children will love rock pooling right here too!
Take a seaweed tour
There are many distinctive issues to do in Guernsey, however that is certainly one of my prime suggestions! What number of occasions have you ever both walked over seaweed with no second look… or bodily prevented it? This tour with Guernsey Seaweed opened my eyes to simply how wonderful seaweed is.
Our tour information Ben defined how there are over 3,000 types of seaweed on the earth, and a whopping 750 are present in Guernsey, partly as a result of island’s large tidal vary. Each single one is edible, however some are tastier than others! From bladder wrack and sea lettuce, to useless man’s fingers, kelp and spirulina, we tasted some, touched others and even lathered one over our pores and skin.
We discovered how some are utilized in cooking, whereas others have antibacterial and beauty properties. It was a captivating tour, which I’d advocate to anyone who’s taken with meals, foraging or sustainable dwelling.
Go on a Day journey to Herm
One of many prime issues to do in Guernsey is to go to the neighbouring island of Herm. This island can also be a part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, however provides a stunning distinction to the island as it’s so wild. There’s little or no on it, simply two pubs, two cafes, a lodge, just a few campsites, and no automobiles!
With birds, seals, dolphins and extra, Herm is the right place to understand nature and swap off. I’d seen images of the island earlier than our journey and I couldn’t imagine how dreamy it appeared (undoubtedly not like someplace inside the British Isles!) Nicely, I can let you know now that the images are all actual… Shell Seaside actually does have pure white sand and Belvoir Bay is a kind of paradise seashores that you just’d anticipate finding within the Caribbean.
To achieve the island, you merely catch the 20-minute Travel Trident ferry from St Peter Port. There are a number of all through the day, so you possibly can spend so long as you fancy on the island. At the present time journey was one of many highlights of our time in Guernsey.
For extra info, learn our complete guide to visiting Herm on the Great British Bucket List.
Loosen up with sundowner cocktails
I’m a agency believer that every one the most effective holidays contain sundown cocktails! There are many attractive spots to go for a drink throughout golden hour in Guernsey. To look at the solar set instantly onto the water, head to The Rockmount (a.okay.a. The Rocky) in Cobo Bay.
Whereas it’s on the unsuitable aspect of the island for sundown, we visited Fermain Beach Café for drinks as the sunshine was dipping and it was attractive. There are many seats by the seaside to benefit from the final rays of the day, and these Hugo Spritzs had been the right accompaniment!
Climb Victoria Tower in St Peter Port
For those who’re on the lookout for the most effective view of St Peter Port, undoubtedly go to Victoria Tower. It’s free to enter, you simply want to gather the important thing from Guernsey Museum in Candie Gardens.
Simply 99 steps stand between you and a phenomenal panoramic view of St Peter Port, the harbour, Citadel Cornet and the island of Herm. It’s undoubtedly well worth the climb!
Go glamping in Guernsey
From luxurious lodges and B&Bs to campsites, there are a number of locations to remain in Guernsey. One of many latest is Camp De Rêves, which provides a wide range of glamping choices. There are 5 safari tents which sleep six (excellent for households) and two model new shepherd huts. All are designed for consolation and have luxurious facilities together with BBQs, a pizza oven, heat water and an indoor video games room.
The view from this glamping website is spectacular too, overlooking the west coast with fascinating sea views.
Indulge with Guernsey’s wealthy dairy merchandise
As I sipped on a flat white from Mylk in St Peter Port, I realised it tasted very totally different from my traditional coffees again in London. Then I remembered that Guernsey cows produce a number of the richest milk and dairy merchandise on the planet. Wow did it style indulgent!
Guernsey milk accommodates extra protein, extra cream and much more nutritional vitamins than customary milk. You’ll discover the richness if you style something with it in. We had Guernsey butter at just a few eating places and observed the flavour distinction with that too. It’s scrumptious and undoubtedly one of many issues that makes Guernsey’s delicacies much more particular!
Take a dip
With so many seashores to select from, how about going for a swim in Guernsey? Sure, the water is fairly chilly, however as I discovered on my latest journey to Kent, it’s an exhilarating expertise!
For those who fancy attempting one thing new, my buddy Emily visited the island lately and went for a swim with the Guernsey Swim All Seasons Group. They meet commonly and have created a splendidly supportive neighborhood, excellent for serving to you previous that bracing first step.
Strive your first Herm oyster
Do you know that Guernsey is known for oysters? Nicely, it’s the island of Herm to be actual. You merely should order some throughout your journey! The actual fact they’re native signifies that costs are affordable too, round £10 for six. Oysters take in the flavour of the water from the place they’re raised, so that you would possibly discover they style totally different relying on the place on the earth they’re from.
Herm oysters are fed by the clear nutrient wealthy waters of the Gulf Stream, and after just a few years, the oysters produced can be plump, with candy tasting meat.
You’ll see them at menus throughout Guernsey, with many eating places having a number of methods of serving them. Le Nautique provides a platter of six oysters, two with champagne sauce, two gremolata and two plain. At Copenhagen, you possibly can have six oysters au gratin with a white wine and parmesan crust. In the meantime on the west coast at La Reunion, you possibly can order six oysters with a alternative of shallot or Vietnamese dressing.
Feast on seafood in Guernsey
In addition to the well-known oysters, island life has different massive advantages with regards to meals. Guernsey’s waters produce unbelievable seafood and fish all 12 months spherical.
Over on Herm, we loved a seafood platter at Shell Seaside Café. Tasting every merchandise whereas searching over the pristine seaside is an unforgettable expertise.
Copenhagen Restaurant and Bar is a superb spot for fish and seafood. In addition to a dozen Herm oysters, we additionally tucked into recent mussels and a tasty fillet of brill.
In the meantime, Le Nautique in St Peter Port (typically named as among the finest eating places on the island) was the place I had my greatest seafood meal. After a tasty starter of scallops, I had an unbelievable fillet of dover sole with a champagne sauce and samphire. Merely divine – I’m salivating simply fascinated about it!
See Guernsey by means of Renoir’s eyes
The artist Renoir spent a month in Guernsey in 1883 and was so impressed by the island’s pure magnificence that he created 15 work throughout his keep. He fell in love with the spectacular views round Moulin Huet (simply as I did!)
To see the island by means of the eyes of the painter, you possibly can go on a particular Renoir walk alongside the south of the island. Alongside the route you’ll come throughout frames with nothing in… besides if you look by means of them, you’ll see the views he painted! It’s a stunning manner to take a look at the island, as if it had been a collection of artworks.
Buy groceries in St Peter Port
St Peter Port is the colourful capital of Guernsey. It’s compact, with a number of purchasing streets adorned with bunting criss-crossing back and forth. There are a number of chain shops for primary gadgets, however I loved wandering round a number of the impartial retailers, which appeared to be thriving throughout peak summer season.
I’d advocate stopping by Gwyneth and Gray for stylish garments, Indica for nautical souvenirs and cute homewares, and Powell’s Jewelry for earrings, necklaces, hats and scarves.
Play loopy golf in Guernsey
Loopy golf is a basic vacation exercise, and it seems Guernsey has a superb course. Pirate Bay Adventure Golf is a 12-hole course full with shipwrecks, pirates and treasure chests. The highlights had been the 2 pull-rafts which join elements of the course. I’ve performed quite a lot of loopy golf and by no means come throughout that earlier than!
For those who’re on the lookout for enjoyable issues to do in Guernsey that the entire household will take pleasure in, this is among the greatest sights to go to. There are additionally just a few choices on the identical website for extra severe golfers. There’s Golf19, a 16-bay driving vary, and St Pierre Park Golf Course.
Go for cocktails in St Peter Port
For those who’re on the lookout for someplace for a pre or put up dinner cocktail in St Peter Port, there are just a few nice spots to decide on between. We had dinner at Balthazar one night, the place the bar was busy with teams of buddies having fun with scrumptious wanting cocktails. As an apart, you need to take a look at the women bogs right here! On the wall you’ll see a ‘boogie button’ which, when pressed, transforms your entire room right into a disco!
Simply alongside the waterfront is Red, the place we stopped for a cocktail on our final night. This bar has a phenomenal view over the marina. After we visited it had simply reopened and was filled with curious locals, excited to check out one of many new native hotspots!
Study concerning the German Occupation
There have been just a few locations we’d liked to have visited if we’d had a bit extra time. Guernsey’s historical past is fascinating, notably all through the Second World Battle when it was occupied by the Germans. The most effective place to study extra about this era is on the German Occupation Museum.
From a real enigma machine used for sending coded messages, to weapons, recreations of store fronts and homes, this museum charts the historical past of what life was like in Guernsey between 1939 and 1945.
Take pleasure in an awesome worth lunch at among the finest eating places in Guernsey
For those who’re visiting the island for the primary time, you would possibly discover a number of the eating places somewhat on the dear aspect. Nevertheless, you possibly can eat at a number of the greatest eating places in Guernsey in case you order from the set lunch menu. It means you possibly can expertise distinctive delicacies at a fraction of the a la carte dinner price.
I had an unbelievable two-course lunch at La Reunion overlooking Cobo Bay for simply £18. I began with a phenomenal plate of beetroot cured salmon, adopted by steak frites. Meals was well-presented, cooked to perfection and the service was impeccable. This restaurant could be very stylish inside and this was undoubtedly certainly one of my favorite restaurant experiences in Guernsey.
Different nice eating places on the island which provide a set lunch menu embody Le Nautique in St Peter Port (£21 for 2 programs), Le Petit Bistro (£11 specific lunch together with a drink) and The Outdated Authorities Home (£25 for 2 programs).
Go to Citadel Cornet in St Peter Port
For those who’re taken with historical past, don’t miss a visit to this 800-year-old fortress, which is positioned by the harbour in St Peter Port. The fortress options a mixture of batteries, citadels, gardens, battlements and towers.
Whereas the outside is fairly spectacular, there’s a lot to see inside too, together with 5 museums (together with the army museum) and 4 gardens. There’s a gun salute each day at noon too, generally known as the “noonday salute”. It’s carried out utilizing a gun made in 1799, with guards sporting army uniforms from between 1868-1881. The each day salute represents the decision as soon as used to alert troopers of the time. One other was once fired at 9.30pm to recall them again to their barracks, however don’t fear, that now not occurs otherwise you would possibly get a scare as you’re strolling house after dinner!
When you’ve discovered all you possibly can about Citadel Cornet, don’t overlook to soak up the views of the city and the islands past.
Discover St Peter Port at evening
St Peter Port is a reasonably city, with cobbled streets and historic buildings. If you end up within the city within the night, I’d advocate having a wander by means of the streets, taking in the great thing about the realm.
I liked our after-dinner strolls and couldn’t assist however take numerous images! The realm across the marina can also be very photogenic, with the lights reflecting off the water.
Find out about Victor Hugo’s time in Guernsey
I used to be amazed to find Victor Hugo lived on the island of Guernsey. The French writer of Les Miserables spent 15 years on the island whereas in exile from France. The landscapes offered numerous inspiration for his works.
If you wish to study extra about his life in Guernsey, you possibly can go to his house Hauteville Home (at present closed however will reopen sooner or later) or go to the Victor Hugo Backyard in Candie Gardens in St Peter Port. There’s a statue of the writer there too.
Take pleasure in a neighborhood Guernsey cider
There are many nice issues to do in Guernsey for food and drinks lovers. For those who’re a fan of a cider, undoubtedly go to Rocquette Cider within the Fauxquets Valley. Run by the Meller household, this cider farm has grown and grown over time. You’ll see the model’s ciders on menus throughout the island too!
To take advantage of your go to I’d advocate reserving a tour. After a wander across the orchards you’ll get to style 9 ciders and fruit liqueurs, in addition to just a few of home made apple chutneys. Little doubt you’ll find yourself shopping for a suitcase filled with them to take pleasure in at house too!
Take pleasure in a number of the greatest aircraft views you’ll ever see
Our flight from London to Guernsey with Aurigny took round an hour. After solely being up within the air a short while, I observed we had been already descending. On a transparent day you’ll see wonderful views over the Channel Islands as you fly in, passing over Sark and Herm earlier than reaching Guernsey.
Construct up your driving expertise!
I’ll admit I used to be fairly completely satisfied that Macca was insured to drive for this journey. In some elements of the island the driving is somewhat intimidating! It’s not that it’s quick, in reality fairly the opposite as there are velocity restrictions of 25 and 35 mph throughout the island.
It’s extra that it’s very slim in locations. Locals are used to it (and know the width of their automobile!) nevertheless it’s somewhat tougher if you’re in a rental automobile driving the routes the primary time. We didn’t have any scares, however in case you’re a brand new driver, take it gradual and possibly hire a compact automobile on your journey.
Additionally distinctive to the island is the ‘filter’ system. While you see the filter signal it signifies that all instructions have equal precedence.
One different factor to notice about driving in Guernsey is that every one public parking is free. Nevertheless, there’s a ‘disc zone’ system which can let you know what number of hours you possibly can park within the space (often starting from 30 minutes – 10 hours). Rent automobiles are inclined to have a ‘parking clock’ within the glove field. You simply flip the dial to point your time of arrival. I do not know how strict that is, or if it’s enforced, nevertheless it’s nice it’s all free!
Take images and make reminiscences that can final a lifetime
Now we have a little bit of a joke that after we journey someplace stunning we ‘walk ten paces and take another photo’. It’s an expression we’ve utilized in spectacular locations corresponding to Thailand, Indonesia and the Caribbean. I believe Guernsey is the primary place within the British Isles that we discovered ourselves saying it!
We’re each eager photographers and we discovered ourselves snapping images continually. Images of the seashores, the shoreline, the boats, the structure, our meals and extra. Arrive with a number of empty reminiscence playing cards and put together to fill them!
I hope you have got an awesome journey to Guernsey. Let me know when you have any questions whilst you’re planning your journey to the island.
An enormous due to Visit Guernsey for inviting me to discover this stunning a part of the Channel Islands. As at all times, all ideas and opinions are my very own.
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