St. Peter Port

A perfect introduction to an island small in size but big on charm, spectacular with its scenery and historical with its relevance to World War II. See all that the beautiful island of Guernsey has to offer, from the dramatic cliffs in the south, to the magical bays and sandy beaches in the west, and the capital, St Peter Port, in the east.

Driving alongside the pretty harbour and shopping centre of St Peter Port, pass the 11th century town church and 12th century Castle Cornet. Discover the charming Little Chapel, a unique miniature church set in the quiet Guernsey countryside, which not only has an unusual appearance, but a unique history. Just 19 by 15 feet in size and decorated with seashells, pebbles and colourful pieces of china, its tiny alcoves barely hold 3 people at any one time.

As your journey takes you through country lanes leading to the west coast, capture the beautiful seascape from the high vantage point of Pleinmont cliffs during a photo stop. Breathe in the sea air as you view coastal fortifications from the Second World War, and appreciate the magnificent scenery that makes the island of Guernsey a special place to visit.

A stop will be made for tea or coffee and cake, with time to browse for some souvenirs.

The enticement of Guernsey for walkers is its size; at just 25 square miles walkers can explore its perfectly formed coastline, while taking in the stunning scenery and colourful beauty that has been an inspiration for many.

After a short drive to the beautiful Fermain Bay, take in the magnificent views over the cliffs and outwards to the other Channel Islands including Herm, Sark, Alderney and, on a clear day, the coast of France.

Pass Petit Fort and savour the fragrance of the blooming flowers filling the paths with colour. Stroll through Bluebell Wood, and enjoy wonderful views out to sea as you take in the fresh air and true beauty of Guernsey. Whatever time of year your visit, discover new colours each month that are an endless source of beauty.

Approaching the town of St Peter Port, see the old Victorian bathing area before passing fascinating Fort. Pass the shops and marina before arriving back at the quayside. There will be a stop for some light refreshments along the way.

Be immersed in the island’s wildlife as you travel through the turquoise waters around Guernsey to discover the waters, wildlife and history that makes Guernsey such a unique island.

Look out for an impressive variety of seabirds, which nest amidst the rocky ledges, with the possibility of seeing Puffins, Gannets, Razorbills and Shags. These can be viewed from close quarters as your specially adapted boat allows you to get close to the cliffs and caves.

Visit the reef of rocks just to the north of Herm Island, a designated nature reserve, where Atlantic Grey Seals can sometimes be seen lazing on the rocks. You may even spot dolphins or whales.

Guided by a nature enthusiast, this tour provides a combination of wildlife observation and exhilaration. You will also find out more about the history and drama of Guernsey’s spectacular maritime heritage.

Your return will be at a bracing speed – so hold on tightly!

Just a 40 minute ride away by ferry from Guernsey, passing the small islands of Herm, Jethou and Brecqhou, lies the Isle of Sark. A tractor-drawn cart called the ‘toast rack’ will take you up the steep hill to the main village. With a map of the island and a local guide to point out all that there is to see and do, you will have free time to truly discover this exquisite island.

For many, the joy of Sark is exploring the quiet pretty corners, enjoying breathtaking vistas and finding a secluded cove to relax. Alternatively, you can visit the Occupation and Heritage Museum, watch chocolates being made at Caragh’s, or walk to the famous La Coupee that links Big Sark to Little Sark in the south.

Along the ‘Main Street’ are a number of interesting and unusual shops, and there are a number of places on the island where you can buy refreshments. At the end of the day, take the ‘toast rack’ or walk back down the harbour hill to the pier and the ferry that will take you back to Guernsey.

The German Occupation of Guernsey during World War II left the islanders with many visible reminders of their control. Quickly consolidating their position, the German forces built fortifications and observation towers on the cliffs which can still clearly be seen today.

Visit the German Occupation Museum, which is split into several different rooms each depicting a theme. These include an equipment room, prison, an occupation kitchen, a fortress room and an area dedicated to maritime Guernsey. The explanation of the items on display will add to your experience at this extremely thought-provoking Museum.

The Underground Hospital is a further remnant, and the largest structural reminder of the German Occupation existing in the Channel Islands. The maze of tunnels in this incredible structure covers about 75,000 square feet. The hospital comprises of 2 main corridors each with wards, operating theatres and x-ray rooms. Although little remains of the equipment, you’ll see beds, cooking arrangements and the heating plant, and most of all you will be in the cool, damp environment which will enable you to contemplate what the true purpose of the building might have been.

At Pleinmont, take in the spectacular views over the cliffs of the west coast of Guernsey and view the impressive gun emplacements.

There will be a stop for refreshments of tea or coffee and cake during your tour and the opportunity to view German defences at close quarters.

A global garden, Guernsey’s mild maritime climate allows for 449 plants to be in bloom in the month of January alone. Visit 3 vibrant highlights of Guernsey to discover why the island has such a fine reputation for its striking flowers and gardens.

Explore the beautiful private garden of La Petite Vallee, considered to be a gardener’s paradise. The owner of the garden has kindly agreed to open the doors to her magnificent garden which includes an orchard, formal lawn, stream path, spring bank, great bank, summer beds, autumn beds, fruit and vegetables.

At the award winning Candie Gardens, with its spectacular setting looking out to sea, stroll downhill from the upper to lower gardens. In this rare example of a Victorian public flower garden, see the plants from all over the world that thrive in Candie’s sheltered position.

Finally, savour the fragrance of the beautiful freesias of Guernsey at the 3-acre Freesia Centre. A wonderful opportunity to experience how the traditional Guernsey flower is grown under glass, and observe the process of planting, picking, bunching and boxing to ship to the mainland UK.

A short drive will bring you to the delightful Little Chapel. This Chapel is truly a work of art and was built as a labour of love by 2 brothers in 1914. The idea was to create a miniature version of the grotto at Lourdes in France and this was successfully completed but the real magic of the Chapel is that it is beautifully decorated with seashells, pebbles and pieces of china.

From the Chapel, you’ll travel to the picturesque grounds of the Gold and Silversmiths. There will be a tour of the workshop where you can watch traditional silver, gold and platinum jewellery being made. During the last century this jewellers has been commissioned to design and craft spectacular jewellery for Royalty and Heads of State. There will be time at the end of your visit to browse the showroom and take advantage of the tax free prices.

Admire the beautiful and spectacular west coast scenery during your journey to the Diamond Museum. A visit to this small room will present a fascinating insight into the sparkling world of diamonds from their origin to the final pieces. In the showroom you can browse the stunning jewellery on display whilst enjoying a glass of champagne.