Best Things to Do in Guernsey

Guestpost by: Jake Anderson

When on my travels I often get asked where I come from, when I reply Guernsey I tend to get confusion followed by intrigue. The fact is that Guernsey is a little paradise of an island, found in the channel between England and France, which still remains under many people’s radar. Although the island is closer to France it remains loyal to the British crown and has done since Norman times.

But this mix of British & French has led Guernsey to have a unique and slightly quirky culture that is interesting to explore. With so much to see and do on a visit to Guernsey, it is hard to know where to start, I have put together my top 5 things to see and do that will give you a sense of all aspects of Guernsey from its natural beauty to its culture and history.

The South Coast Cliffs

The south coast of Guernsey is arguably the most picturesque area of the island, which is why it makes it to number one on my list. There are over 28.5 miles of twisting and turning cliff paths to explore, offering a peaceful walk for everyone. The spectacular south coast is full of beautiful bays, hidden coves, and secluded harbors, taking one of the paths will make you feel a million miles away from chaotic everyday life.

Although the whole of the south coast is pretty stunning I do have a few must-visit suggestions. The view at Moulin Huet is hard to beat.

Saints Bay is an old harbor and rumor has it used to be used by pirates! I love taking a picnic up to the bench overlooking the bay on a sunny summer day.

Castle Cornet

Castle Cornet is an ancient castle that guards Guernsey’s main town harbor. As there is not much defending to do these days the castle is now open to visitors and has 3 museums and historic gardens. This makes my list because it is the best place to learn about Guernsey’s rich and interesting history. From being granted a seal by Kind Edward I in 1279 to the war of the roses and the German occupation. Castle Cornet is the place to delve into the history of the island.

Cobo Beach

This one is for those of you that like to take some time out from exploring, stretch out your beach towel, and spend a couple of days chilling out on the beach. There are 27 beaches in Guernsey but Cobo makes the list because of its soft sand and proximity to a very popular pub! If you decide to visit be sure to go for lunch and a pint in the Rockmount and walk 5 minutes to the local chippy in the evening for fish chips with a sunset backdrop.

Victor Hugo’s House

Victor Hugo’s eccentric and ornate home during his exile in Guernsey gives an insight into his creative mind. The house has been turned into a museum and preserved to be as it would have been found in the eighteen hundreds. It tells the story of Victor Hugo during his 15 years on the island, on which he wrote some of his most famous work, Les Misérables to name but one. This is a must-visit for any literature fan.

Herm Island

Just a 20-minute boat journey away is the tiny island of Herm. If you thought Guernsey was like stepping back in time you haven’t seen anything yet! I would advise taking a day to explore so you can wander around the Island at your leisure. Shell Beach is a great place to spend the afternoon on a sunny day and looks like it has been plucked straight out of the Caribbean!

These five ideas are but a small sample of the huge array of things to see and do on my beautiful home of Guernsey, check out the official tourism website for more ideas! I would urge anyone to come over to experience a holiday like no other.

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