Things to do in Guernsey: 5 Top Attractions

When you’re planning a walking holiday on the Channel Island Way, you will notice there are many things to do in Guernsey and its surrounding islets of Sark, Herm, Lihou and Alderney. The area is steeped in history with influences of French and English monarchies, World War II, and European aristocrats like Victor Hugo and Renoir. Add to that the beautiful seascapes taken in from the many bays, rugged cliffs and endless beaches, and a selection of eclectic pubs and quiet villages, and your Guernsey attractions list is complete. Here is a top 5:

1.   L'Eree Bay

The coast section between L’Eree Bay and Perelle Bay is a special marine reserve (Ramsar site). With its many rock pools L'Eree Bay is an important place for wading birds. Try to take in some of the amazing sunsets when looking towards Lihou Island. If you have time, you can go rock hopping in search for crabs and sea anemones. Other things to do in this part of Guernsey is to go and explore the trench defenses near Fort Saumarez.

2.   Bluebell Woods

There is a rare stand of deciduous forest on Guernsey Island, situated in a sheltered dip south of St Peter Port. This one does exactly what it says it does on the map: it becomes a breathtakingly - beautiful dense 'Bluebell Wood' between April and May. Quite a contrast with much of the seaside flora that you will see when walking elsewhere on the island. The Channel Island Way passes directly through this unique Guernsey attraction and it draws a host of photographers and romantics at that time of year.

3.   Petit Bot Bay

Descending from the cliff path on the first day of the 7-day Guernsey Islands – Channel Island Way walk, you reach the small but perfectly formed Petit Bot Bay. It is a sheltered sand and shingle beach on the south coast of Guernsey. There is of course a nice cafe to go for a cuppa, or pint later in the day. Petit Bot Bay also has a defensive tower, which actually dates from the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783) when France, which had joined the war in support of the fledgling USA, threatened to send over waves of invading ‘visitors’. You can read more about Guernsey's fascinating history in the guidebook by Paddy Dillon.

4.   Cobo Bay

Another excellent Guernsey attraction for sunsets are Cobo Bay and Saline Bay. They run as a wonderful stretch of white sandy beaches up to a Victorian fort in the dunes. Many of the things to do in Guernsey are related to the beautiful scenery and Cobo Bay is no exception to this. Large sections of the Channel Island Way can be accomplished on beach sections such as Cobo Bay. Watch sublime scenes from the terrace of the superb hotel-restaurant you will find along the way. Out of the high season you have beaches like this nearly all to yourself.

5.   Sark

Just about everywhere on Sark is a brilliant part of the Guernsey islands! Sark is just so different, with its quasi feudal laws, and mainly because there are no cars it is so peaceful. What you’ll hear is just the clip-clopping of horses’ hooves and the occasional rumble of a tractor (they are allowed). The landscapes of Sark island are generally quite rugged and also pastoral. These reflect the boundaries of the original settling families of the island who arrived in Tudor times. Paths go out to the various gorse clad headlands with some amazing sea cliffs. From the north, you can see Guernsey and Herm islands. La Coupée is an interesting feature: a narrow road that connects to Sark’s baby neighbour, Little Sark, which will one day be a separate island. The walking trails are lovely as well - oh, there is no street lighting on Sark either, so bring a torch (flashlight).

Are you a big fan of the island just like us and like to find out about other things to do in Guernsey and beautiful places to see when walking on the island? The guidebook publisher, Cicerone, has 5 more beautiful places in Guernsey and along the Channel Island Way that we believe should be on your radar. 

For more information on self-guided walking holidays in Guernsey and the Channel Islands, you can find all trips here.