Find Your Island Feeling
Kat Hannon’s guide to Guernsey
Guernsey is a stunning island located in the English Channel, just off the coast of Normandy, France. Its geographic location has breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean and countryside. Guernsey feels quintessentially British, probably because I flew from Liverpool and landed in 90 minutes and with its cobbled streets and familiar green landscape it seemed very much home from home. However, it’s undoubtedly French (with other European influence); the most obvious clues are the towns and street names. The island itself is characterised by its picturesque landscapes, with rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches. The coastline is dotted with charming fishing villages, historic castles, and coastal paths perfect for exploring.
What To Do
We had a wonderful tour guide called Gill Girard (details below), who I highly recommend as we got to hear local in-depth knowledge about things that I’d later go back to for a second more thorough visit. The main attractions highlighted on my visit were:
Castle Cornet in St. Peter Port Harbour
Explore this historic castle located on a tidal island, where you can learn about Guernsey's military history, visit the museum, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area, they even have a festival and live music at the castle throughout the summer season.
Guernsey's Natural Beauty
Best for hikers you can hike along the South Coast Cliff Paths - the scenic cliff paths on the island's south coast. Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea, explore hidden coves and spot wildlife along the way.
St. Peter Port
The capital of Guernsey is a perfect town walk through the quaint streets lined with colourful buildings where you can browse the shops, visit markets, art shops and enjoy a meal at one of the many cafes or restaurants overlooking the harbour.
The Little Chapel
A truly unique and sweetest bijou chapel, adorned with intricate designs made from seashells and pebbles!
Fermain Bay
There is book called the Guernsey Beach Guide, that gives you great details about optimum tides, best features, remarkable views, all the things you’d need to know. And this one comes up trumps! Relax on the picturesque beach at Fermain Bay, a secluded spot surrounded by lush greenery and crystal-clear waters and enjoy an incredible swim or sunbathe on the sand.
Where To Stay
Set back only a mile from St Peter Port, St Pierre Park Spa Hotel is where I stayed for my visit. The resort epitomises luxury with its elegant accommodations. They have super lovely, and beautifully styled rooms, gorgeous family suites with outdoor jacuzzi, and vast green views from your room and from the balconies. The hotel has top-notch spa facilities and offers a super relaxed atmosphere with their leisure amenities that boast a lovely large indoor pool, a nice big gym with great equipment (something I look for when I’m away), an outdoor jacuzzi (if you don’t have one with your suite) and gorgeous walkable grounds around the water features, tennis courts and 9 hole golf course. And exceptional service! Guests can expect a truly indulgent and pampering experience in this upscale hotel in Guernsey.
For a unique location, Fermain Valley Hotel is nestled in the tranquil Fermain Valley. This boutique hotel is deeply surrounded by lush gardens and woodland, providing a peaceful retreat for guests. You are literally looking through treetops to the ocean from your balcony. The hotel features spacious rooms, a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine, and a spa with indoor and outdoor pools.
For central town locations, I saw a few boutique hotels but the The Duke of Richmond Hotel & The Old Government House Hotel & Spa stood out as stylish boutique hotels.
The Good & Quirky
When going away I have in mind things I’d like to see from a trip and these are what stuck in my mind from visiting Guernsey.
Streets filled with art and art shops! Find a cobbled street and you’ll find some art, and hopefully buy some to take home.
The Regatta Festival in Guernsey is an annual event that celebrates the island's maritime heritage- expect boats and lots of fun.
Hauteville House - built in the heights of St Peter Port overlooking the Channel, Hauteville House was the home of Victor Hugo during his time in exile from France. Now a museum, the house was where Hugo wrote his most famous works, including Les Misérables, Toilers of the Sea and many more.
Travelling To Guernsey Is A Breeze…
Travelling from John Lennon Airport in Liverpool to Guernsey is relatively easy, with direct flights available that take around an hour and a half. Despite its small size, Guernsey is teeming with historical charm and boasts breathtaking natural beauty. The juxtaposition of its rich past and unspoiled landscapes makes it a truly unique destination that offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. Travelling from John Lennon Airport to Guernsey allows you to experience this enchanting island and immerse yourself in its captivating charm.
IMAGES: VisitGuernsey
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