Top Things to Do in Guernsey

Guernsey is an island full of things to do, from exploring the islands amazing scenery by foot to discovering its intriguing history. Guernsey is the second largest island in the Channel Islands, found in the English Channel between England and France. Interestingly the island is actually geographically closer to France, however English is the primary language here and the island remains loyal to the British crown.

 

Walking

The island draws avid walkers from all over the world who want to explore the winding cliff paths and more sedate countryside of Guernsey. The south coast cliffs are worth a visit, you could dedicate a whole weekend break in Guernsey to exploring these alone. There is a total of 28.5 miles of sweeping cliff paths to explore, some being easier to navigate than others, and a day spent following these paths round will give a real insight into the natural beauty that Guernsey has to offer.

If cliff walking isn’t really your thing then don’t worry, there are plenty of other areas in Guernsey that are great to explore on foot. Take a walk out to Lihou Island when the tide is right, a small island off Guernsey’s west coast that is accessed by a cobbled seabed causeway at low tide. Alternatively stroll through the countryside, making use of the Ruette Tranquil lanes where priority is given to walkers and cyclists.

 

Guernsey Fermain Bay
By Heather Cowper under CC BY 2.0

 

Island Hopping

One of the major benefits of the Bailiwick of Guernsey is its sister islands, making it the perfect launch pad for an island hopping holiday. Away from the main island of Guernsey there are three other islands, Herm, Sark and Alderney. Herm island is a little haven of calm in an increasingly manic world. Just a 20-minute boat ride away from Guernsey, the island has award winning gardens and stretches of white sandy beaches.

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If you are happy to go on slightly longer boat ride then head over to Sark, which is around 50-minutes from Guernsey. This traffic free island has stunning coastal views paired with a picturesque rural interior. Visiting Sark is like stepping back in time, there are no cars on the island and the best way to get around is by bicycle.

Alderney is the furthest island from the main island of Guernsey.  The best way to get to Alderney is by a short plane journey. The island is three miles long by one and a half miles wide and has a population of just 2,400. The island is distinctly relaxed and friendly and the slower pace of life is evident as soon as you step off the plane.

 

Guernsey
By Steve Johnson under CC BY-SA 2.0

 

Outdoor Activities

Guernsey has a whole host of outdoor activities to offer holidaymakers. The island has some great bays that make for great kayaking in the summer months, you can explore on your own or take part in one of the guided tours. There is also the fairly new activity sport of coasteering, a unique adventure sport in which you experience sea level traversing, rock scrambling, swimming and jumping in gullies and caves.