All information in this blog post is correct as of the publishing date, 17.06.19.
Guernsey offers everything you would expect on a holiday to an island in the sea, with golden beaches, delicious food, wonderful attractions and fascinating culture. You can enjoy all of this when you hop on one of the regular ferries to Guernsey and spend a delightful holiday here this summer. When your holiday is booked, the next step is planning on how you will spend your summer in Guernsey – here’s our guide to inspire you!
Attractions and Beaches
Candie Gardens
The Victorian Candie Gardens sits at the top of St. Peter Port and boast panoramic views of the other islands of Sark, Herm and Jethou. The gardens were part of a private estate but are now open to the public; the Lower Gardens were refurbished 20 years ago and are a stunning example of a Victorian Public Flower Garden. The Gardens are also home to the oldest known heated glasshouses in the British Isles, dating to the late 18th century. Visitors can also find a statue of Queen Victoria in Imperial regalia in the garden and a statue of French poet and novelist Victor Hugo. Also located at Candie Gardens is the Guernsey Museum and Art Gallery which exhibits “The Story of Guernsey” and Rona Core Art Gallery.
Cobo Bay
Cobo Bay is one of Guernsey’s favourite beaches due to its white sands and crystal-clear waters. The beach is easily accessible with a slipway at each end and stairs along the sea wall. In summer, the water is the perfect temperature for a swim, and when the tide is out there are rock pools to explore. For a bite to eat, there are cafés and the popular Cobo Fish and Chips nearby too.
Fort Grey Shipwreck Museum
Over the years, forts have been built around Guernsey’s coastline to defend the island. These forts, such as Fort Doyle, Fort Saumarez and Fort Hommet, were occupied by the Germans in World War Two and are now open for the public to explore. Fort Grey is a Martello Tower on the rocky west coast and has seen many shipwrecks on the rocks and reef below. The Shipwreck Museum tells the tales of the many tragedies which have happened on this dangerous stretch of coast and has many recovered artefacts on display.
Vazon Bay
Vazon Bay is just one of many fantastic beaches in Guernsey, and the place to go for sports enthusiasts. Whether you are a surfer, kite-surfer or bodyboarder, the waves at Vazon Bay are just right, and you can while away several hours in the surf. If you are interested in learning to surf, the Guernsey Surf School is located on the beach and for a bite to eat there are an assortment of cafés, kiosks and restaurants close to the bay.
Activities
Kayaking
Enjoy the beautiful Guernsey coast from a kayak; at sea level, you can marvel at the towering cliffs and sandy beaches, and a small kayak will allow you to discover every nook and cranny of the coastline. It doesn’t matter if you are experienced or a complete novice, as the equipment is provided, and instructors will share their knowledge of the area. The Puffin Patrol kayak expeditions at Herm give visitors a chance to see the most southerly puffin colony in Europe too! An alternative to kayaking is stand up paddleboarding, the perfect activity for calmer waters.
Jet Ski Safaris
One of the best ways to explore the Bailiwick of Guernsey’s coastline is on a guided jet ski tour. Qualified instructors provide full tuition on how to safely drive the jet skis before heading out into Guernsey’s clear blue waters. The safaris last around two hours, including training and the land-based briefing, and the maximum group size is six. To go on a jet ski safari, you must be able to swim and be at least 12 years old. All you need to bring is a towel, swimsuit and shoes you are happy to get wet.
Walking
Guernsey is wonderful to explore on foot, with many walking routes around the island taking you to secret coves via winding paths, offering panoramic views from cliff tops and bringing you across the historical and natural highlights of the island. There are numerous paths to choose from that suit different walking abilities and interests. You may want to opt for a beach walk or go for a ramble in the countryside to stroll through valleys and woodland to The Little Chapel, a curious work of art covered in colourful pottery and shells.
Places to Eat
Beetons Barista and Bite
Award-winning Beeton’s in St. Peter Port is more than a fish and chip shop, with hot drinks, sandwiches and baguettes available at lunch. The eatery is a family business and has been an important part of the Guernsey community for many years.
Le Petit Bistro
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Petit Bistro in St. Peter Port. Combining authentic food in a rustic and romantic setting, the bistro serves seasonal and local food, the exception being speciality dishes sourced from around France. Favourite menu items include coq au vin, frog legs and steak frites.
What’s On?
Town Carnival (13 – 27 July)
The Town Carnival, also known as “La Fête d’la Musique a la Ville” is a music festival which brings artists from around the world to the island. Various events over the two weeks take place around St. Peter Port. The carnival kicks off with a parade through the town led by the Guernsey Scout Band and joined by the Guernsey Dancers and Guernsey Majorettes.
The North Show and Battle of Flowers (21 – 22 August)
The Guernsey North Show and Battle of Flowers has been one of the biggest outdoor events in Guernsey’s calendar for several years. Located at Sausmarez Manor, thousands attend every year to take part in the varied programme of events. There will be a fun fair and a market selling refreshments and gifts, and as part of the North Show, visitors can see the livestock classes and displays as well as the wood and metal working workshops, craft and baking sessions and much more. On the second day, the Battle of Flowers takes place and spectators can admire the colourful floats which compete for the “Prix d’honneur”.