Just off the coast of Normandy lies an unspoilt island where you will find the famous Guernsey Cattle. The island of Guernsey in the Channel Islands is a quiet haven of charm and sophistication that will take you away from the stresses of your daily life. A coach tour of the island will take you through narrow country roads and lanes as you circle the whole island. The tour itself takes only about 3 hours. You will certainly get a chance to see everything – the colourful hedges, the wild flowers and the green pastures where cows graze contentedly – because the island speed limit is only 35 miles per hour.
On the tour you will have the opportunity to visit the Little Chapel, decorated with multi-colored shells, pennies and china. At the Sausmarez Manor, there are many items of historic importance, such as the wedding coat of James 11 and the ship’s log recording the capture of the world’s greatest treasure ship. The tranquil garden is a great place to sit and relax and explore the beautiful flowers on your own.
Guernsey is a distinct part of Britain where the street names are French, but the people speak English. St. Peter’s Port is the hub of the island with its many yachts, coastal steamers and ferries. Along the waterfront you can stop at one of the many pubs, restaurants and cafes or climb the hill to see the 18th century Georgian style houses.
No visit to Guernsey would be complete without a visit to the Gold and Silversmiths. This is a manufacturing base located on five acres of lush green farmland with the workshop located in a barn dating back to 1582. You can watch the work being done or browse the exhibits of exquisite craftsmanship on display. You will want to purchase a small souvenir to take home with you.
This island was the only part of Britain to come under German occupation during the Second World War. Evidence of this still exists in the German defenses that are preserved. There are two museums dedicated to this subject – the Occupation Museum and the Underground Hospital and Munitions Store. You will be amazed at the maze of underground tunnels virtually invisible from the surface.
Guernsey has much to offer you whether you want to stay a night or several nights. Castle Cornet in St. Peter’s Port dates back to the 13th century. Here you will find many artifacts and children will fall in love with the interactive maritime museum. Every visitor just has to be present for the firing of the noon-day gun, but you do need to wear your earplugs. The Guernsey Museum and Art Gallery, located in beautiful Victorian Gardens and overlooking the port, is just a short stroll away. Here you will find a pleasant mix of the past and present. There are displays of ancient settlements next to contemporary designs.
The Beau Sejour Leisure Centre is certainly not to be left out of your visit to Guernsey. A large indoor pool, squash and badminton courts, a roller skating rink and a gym and healthy suite are some of the things you can do inside. Outside there is tennis and bowls as well as a playground for the children.
If you like to relax on a warm sunny beach, there are several to choose from. Vazon Bay is one of the most popular beaches with high surf for surfing and sand and sprint races. For real peace and quiet you can walk to Pebble Beach or if you like being surrounded by tall cliffs you can visit Saints’ Bay.
Guernsey has a list of five star hotels for you to choose from or for the more budget minded there are one star hotels and self-catering units. No matter which one you choose you will be clean and comfortable with a courteous staff ready to attend to your needs.
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For a romantic getaway or a short holiday with the kids, Guernsey is the ideal location for its many activities and the breathtaking scenery.
Photographs courtesy of visitguernsey.com
