About Islandeering
lisa drewe author at islandeering

Hi and welcome to Islandeering Islandeering is for people who want adventure in Britain’s wild blue spaces – our rivers, coast, lakes, canals and islands. You will find amazing walks, paddles and swims in the UK’s most special places, those recognised for outstanding natural beauty, incredible geology or special and abundant wildlife.

More About Us

We continuously find new islands, rivers, lochs, canals and coast to walk, SUP and swim in and meet plenty of great folks along the way. Join our community to get new routes and adventures, latest blogs and news by using the email box below. Tune in also to our Facebook and Instagram pages to see where we are going next.

Sale!
Original price was: £16.99.Current price is: £14.00.
Sale!
Original price was: £18.99.Current price is: £15.00.

About Guernsey

The second largest of the Channel Islands, Guernsey is resolutely British yet it feels Mediterranean. From pretty St Peter Port with its glittering, cosmopolitan marina, leafy, cobbled streets and lush botanic gardens to the coastline’s gloriously expansive golden beaches, hidden coves and cliff tops dotted with World War II fortifications there is plenty to explore. It is part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey along with sister islands of Alderney, Sark, Herm, Jethou and Lihou and many small islets and rocks. A centre for tourism and international finance, its famous icon is the Guernsey cow prized for its rich creamy milk.

There are activities galore on the island with a coast path, waymarked cycle routes, sea swimming and every water sport imaginable. Easy to get to with frequent ferries arriving from Portsmouth, Poole and St Malo; regular flights arrive from a range of UK and other European destinations. Guernsey is the hub for inter-island transport with frequent services to Jersey, Alderney, Sark and Herm. A full range of accommodation is available.

Highlights of Guernsey

How to get to Guernsey

By water Condor Ferries from Portsmouth and Guernse. By air Direct flights arrive from many European destinations.

Getting around Guernsey

On foot. Walking on Guernsey is one of the best ways to see its many attractions and beautiful coastline. The island is criss-crossed with a fine network of paths, including the spectacular 63 km circular Guernsey Coast Path, part of The Channel Island Way. Bike. Cycling on Guernsey is a great way to explore the miles of quiet green lanes (ruettes tranquilles) of the island which have a maximum speed of 15mph.  There are hundreds of route possibilities, with 11 ‘Official Routes‘, that visitors can take to explore the island. They range from flat western and northern coastal rides to quiet country lanes and leafy valleys on roads that take in many of the island’s visitor attractions and great pitstops. There are also many places to hire bikes. By bus. You can get almost anywhere with Guernsey’s Buses which links the island’s main locations and attractions with the central bus station at St Peter Port. All bus fares have a fixed price of £1.60 per journey, no matter the distance you go, although if you take the round-the-island coastal bus route and don’t get off before the end of the circular route – the ‘Around Island’ fare is £5.

Best time to go to Guernsey

The best months for good weather in Guernsey are June, July, August, September and October with the warmest months being July, August and September. The coldest months are January and February and the rainiest are January, October, November and December. The best months for swimming are August and September.

The best time to visit Guernsey is between May and September, when the island basks in its warmest and sunniest weather. During these months, daytime temperatures average between 17°C and 20°C (63°F to 68°F), making it perfect for exploring the island’s stunning coastal paths and beaches. The sea temperature during summer hovers around 16°C to 18°C (61°F to 64°F), ideal for swimming, kayaking, or snorkelling. Spring and early summer bring vibrant wildflowers across the countryside, while the long, sunny days of late summer are perfect for outdoor activities. Winters, though mild with temperatures rarely dipping below 7°C (45°F), can be damp and windy, limiting outdoor exploration.

Guernsey’s festival calendar is also at its most vibrant during the warmer months. The Liberation Day celebrations in May commemorate the island’s freedom from WWII occupation with parades, concerts, and fireworks. June brings the Guernsey Literary Festival, attracting authors and readers for a celebration of literature. Summer is alive with events like the Sark Folk Festival, the Guernsey International Food Festival, and outdoor performances at Candie Gardens. September offers the Autumn Walking Festival, showcasing the island’s scenic trails with guided walks. These vibrant events, coupled with the island’s idyllic climate, make the summer months a fantastic time to experience Guernsey’s charm.

Food and drink in Guernsey 

Guernsey is a paradise for food lovers, offering a culinary scene deeply rooted in its island heritage and rich natural bounty. Fresh seafood takes centre stage, with locally caught crab, lobster, and scallops gracing the menus of many restaurants. Traditional dishes like Guernsey gâche (a sweet fruit loaf) and bean jar (a hearty pork and bean stew) showcase the island’s rustic flavours. Don’t miss sampling Guernsey butter, renowned for its creamy richness, or the island’s fresh dairy products, often featured in desserts. From fine dining establishments like The Old Government House to casual eateries along the harbourside, the island caters to all tastes and budgets.

For drinks, Guernsey boasts a growing craft scene, with local breweries and distilleries creating standout ales, ciders, and spirits. Try White Rock Brewery for its innovative beers or sip on locally distilled gin infused with island botanicals. Wine lovers can enjoy vineyard tours at Rocquette Cider, where you can sample their award-winning ciders and apple-based products. Pair your drinks with scenic views at Guernsey’s many seaside pubs and cafes, where you can enjoy everything from a relaxed afternoon tea to a sunset cocktail overlooking the ocean. With its farm-to-table ethos and focus on quality, Guernsey offers a gastronomic experience that celebrates its unique island identity.

Accommodation in Guernsey

Guernsey offers a diverse range of accommodation options, ensuring every traveller finds a place to suit their style and budget. From luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses, the island caters to those seeking indulgence or a cosy retreat. High-end options like The Old Government House Hotel & Spa provide opulent amenities, sea views, and fine dining experiences, while boutique hotels such as The Fermain Valley Hotel offer a blend of comfort and character in idyllic settings. For families or budget-conscious travellers, there are welcoming bed-and-breakfasts and affordable lodges dotted across the island, many offering a homely atmosphere with traditional Guernsey charm.

For those wanting to immerse themselves in nature, Guernsey’s campsites and self-catering cottages are excellent choices. Staying in a coastal holiday home offers stunning sea views and the flexibility to cook with fresh local produce, while campsites like La Bailloterie Camping provide an affordable and adventurous experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors can also opt for unique stays, such as converted farmhouses or historic inns, for a taste of the island’s heritage. Whether nestled in the countryside or perched on the coast, Guernsey’s accommodation options promise a memorable stay with warm island hospitality.

Dog friendly 

Guernsey is a dog friendly destination. No doggy passport required and plenty of dog-friendly accommodation

Contacts

More information on visiting Guernsey at VisitGuernsey

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