Things To Do – Outdoors
Alderney
Whether arriving by air or sea, Alderney offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure. Wander the cobbled streets of St Anne’s, cycle along scenic coastal paths, or explore the island by boat. From Iron Age forts to WWII bunkers, Elizabethan shipwrecks to Victorian batteries, Alderney’s rich past is woven into its landscape, with the award winning Alderney Museum offering a fascinating insight into its history.
For food lovers, Alderney boasts home grown produce, rich dairy products, and fresh seafood straight from its waters. Whether you are in the mood for French inspired cuisine, authentic Thai, or a relaxed gastropub experience, St Anne has plenty of dining options. Along the beaches, charming kiosks and cafés offer refreshments with a view.
Alderney is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Its diverse habitats, from kelp forests to coastal grasslands, attract dolphins, seabirds, bats, and the rare blonde hedgehog. In spring and summer, visitors can witness puffin and gannet colonies in full flight.
For beach lovers, golden sands and crystal clear waters await. Enjoy a relaxing day at Braye Beach, try paddleboarding at Longis, or go rockpooling at Clonque. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, Alderney offers something special for every visitor.
Bathing Pools
For over 150 years, La Vallette Bathing Pools have been a cherished spot for sea swimming on Guernsey’s east coast. Established in 1865, these historic pools provide a safe and enclosed environment, making them perfect for swimmers of all ages.
Fed directly by the sea at high tide, the pools maintain a fresh supply of seawater while their carefully designed walls help retain water as the tide recedes. This clever design not only ensures a consistently refreshing swim but also minimises seaweed and marine life from entering the pools, creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful morning dip or a fun family swim, the Bathing Pools offer a unique way to enjoy Guernsey’s beautiful coastline.
Beaches
Guernsey boasts an array of beautiful beaches, each offering a unique coastal experience.
Here’s a glimpse into some of the island’s most cherished shores:
Vazon Bay
Located on the west coast, Vazon Bay is a vast expanse of golden sand, making it a favourite among surfers and families alike. The bay is home to the Guernsey Surf School, catering to both novices and seasoned surfers. Amenities such as Vistas Beach Café and Richmond Beach Kiosk ensure visitors have access to refreshments throughout the day.
Cobo Bay
Renowned for its white sands and clear waters, Cobo Bay is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. As the day winds down, many gather along the seawall to witness breathtaking sunsets, often accompanied by a serving of local fish and chips, a cherished island tradition.
Fermain Bay
Nestled on the east coast, Fermain Bay is a secluded pebble beach surrounded by stunning cliffs. Accessible via a scenic cliff path from St Peter Port, the bay offers crystal clear waters ideal for swimming. The awarwinning Fermain Beach Café provides a delightful spot to relax and enjoy local delicacies.
Pembroke Bay
Situated at the northernmost point of the island, Pembroke Bay boasts the longest stretch of unbroken sand in Guernsey. Its turquoise waters are perfect for various water sports. The presence of a traditional kiosk adds to the bay’s charm, offering snacks and refreshments to beachgoers.
Petit Bôt Bay
Located on the south coast, Petit Bôt Bay is a picturesque cove with soft sands and clear waters, surrounded by steep wooded cliffs. It’s an ideal spot for families seeking a tranquil beach day, with opportunities for swimming and exploring rock pools. A nearby café ensures visitors have access to refreshments during their visit.
Each of these beaches contributes to Guernsey’s rich coastal tapestry, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to experience the island’s natural beauty and seaside traditions.
Bluebell Woods
Nestled between St Peter Port and Fermain Bay on Guernsey’s east coast lies the beautiful Bluebell Woods. Each spring, this hilly woodland transforms as bluebells blanket the forest floor, creating a breathtaking sea of blue beneath the budding tree canopy.
Accessible via cliff paths Bluebell Woods offers a serene setting for walkers. The trails meander through the vibrant bluebell displays and connects to the island’s picturesque cliff paths, providing stunning views of the southeast coastline.
While the bluebells are in full bloom during spring, the woods remain a delightful destination all year round. Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked paths to protect the delicate flora, ensuring that the natural beauty of this area is preserved for future generations.
Whether you are an avid hiker or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Bluebell Woods offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Guernsey’s natural splendour.
Cliff walks
Guernsey’s southern coastline offers a network of cliff paths that provide walkers with breathtaking views of the English Channel and the island’s rugged terrain. Spanning approximately 28.5 miles, these trails are a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike.
Jerbourg Point to Fermain Bay
A popular route begins at Jerbourg Point, located at the southeastern tip of the island. This path leads westward to Fermain Bay, offering panoramic sea vistas and glimpses of maritime heathland. The well marked trail is suitable for walkers of varying abilities.
Icart Point to Petit Bôt Bay
Another notable section stretches from Icart Point to Petit Bôt Bay. This trail meanders through flowery headlands and dramatic cliffs, with opportunities to explore secluded coves such as Moulin Huet Bay. The paths are well maintained, ensuring a pleasant experience for all.
The cliff paths are filled with a rich tapestry of flora. Walkers might encounter a variety of bird species and, during certain seasons, vibrant wildflower displays.
It’s advisable to wear sturdy footwear and carry water, especially on longer hikes. Many routes feature kiosks or cafés at various points, providing convenient spots for rest and refreshment.
Whether you are seeking a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Guernsey’s cliff paths offer an wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty.
Cycling
Guernsey’s diverse landscapes make it an ideal destination for cyclists of all levels. The island offers a variety of cycling experiences, from quiet country lanes to scenic coastal paths.
A highlight for many cyclists is the network of ‘Ruettes Tranquilles’ or ‘quiet lanes.’ These roads prioritise pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders, with a recommended speed limit of 15 mph for motor vehicles.
For those seeking picturesque sea views, the coastal paths along the north and west coasts are ideal. These routes offer flatter terrain, making them suitable for leisurely rides while enjoying the island’s stunning coastline.
Guernsey’s compact size, approximately nine miles long and three miles wide, makes it easy to explore by bike. The island’s speed limits are restricted to 35 mph, ensuring a safer environment for cyclists. Bike hire services are readily available, offering a range of options to suit different preferences. They can be hired and delivered, through Go Guernsey Land and Sea.
Fishing
Guernsey’s rich marine environment offers exceptional fishing opportunities, both from the shore and aboard chartered boats.
The island’s diverse coastline provides numerous spots for shore fishing. Anglers can target species such as bass, bream, mackerel and pollock. Popular locations include Vazon Bay, Rocquaine Bay, L’Eree Bay, Pembroke Bay, Saints Bay, and Havelet Bay.
For those looking to venture offshore, there are charter services offer guided fishing trips:
Out The Blue Charters: Skippered by Richard Seager, this service provides fishing excursions suitable for both novices and experienced anglers.
These charters supply necessary equipment and local expertise, enhancing the fishing experience.
Whether casting from the shore or embarking on a boat trip, Guernsey offers a rewarding fishing experience amidst its stunning coastal scenery.
Go Guernsey Land and Sea
Explore and get some fresh air and a new perspective of the island with Go Guernsey. Whether kayaking along the stunning coastline, stand up paddle boarding to discover a new view of the ocean or coasteering as you traverse your way across the granite cliffs (jumping not obligatory but definitely worth it!!!)
Go Guernsey Land and Sea’s guide will find a “Route To Suit” for all abilities and group sizes and you’ll be amazed at what you discover and learn about the marine environment from them. They offer great discounts for groups of 8 people and over but will also provide trips for smaller groups of all ages, just get in touch!
Sessions are 2 hours in duration.
Lessons are available upon request. Go Guernsey Land and Sea also offer kayak hire (single or double) and paddleboard hire.
All equipment and safety gear such as wetsuits and buoyancy aids are supplied.
Open daily and available to chat about your requirements at any time.
Go Guernsey Land and Sea are also the island’s largest stockist of hire bikes, electric and otherwise, and offer cycle hire for any size group or range of ages.
+44 (0) 7839 151771 https://www.go-guernsey.gg info@go-guernsey.gg
Herm
Just a 20 minute boat ride from St Peter Port, Herm Island offers a tranquil retreat with unspoilt beaches, scenic cliff paths, and incredible wildlife, including seals, dolphins and puffins. Herm offers a truly relaxing escape.
Shell Beach, with its pure white sands and crystal clear waters, is perfect for sunbathing, watersports, or something to eat at the beach café. A short walk along the coastal path leads to Belvoir Bay, a sheltered cove ideal for a peaceful swim. For those craving adventure, paddleboarding and kayaking offer a chance to explore Herm’s turquoise waters.
You can savour fresh local seafood at The Conservatory, enjoy a relaxed meal at The Mermaid Tavern, or grab a crab sandwich with a view at the beach cafés. With its puffin colonies, bluebell woods, and scenic nature trails, Herm is a haven for wildlife lovers and the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Hot Haus Sauna
Located along the picturesque coastline of St. Peter Port our traditional wood-fired Sauna boasts panoramic views from Havelet Bay across to Herm and Sark in the distance, creating an unparalleled setting to unwind and reconnect.
Immerse yourself in our beautifully crafted, traditional nordic sauna and truly enhance your wellbeing with a stimulating swim in the sea.
Sauna bathing offers a multitude of benefits, including detoxification, improved cardiovascular health, stress reduction and more.
Book only. The sauna is always staffed during opening hours, so no codes or keys are required. You’ll be welcomed and briefed by a staff member upon arrival.
Landrover Safaris
Let us guide you around Guernsey’s most iconic landmarks as well as places only the locals know about. Beautiful views, quaint churches, and authentic Guernsey Beach Kiosks. Discover the REAL Guernsey with one of our small group or private guided tours. Our vehicle is fully accredited by the States of Guernsey Traffic & Highway Services for carrying paying passengers on Guernsey roads and will take you where no bus can!
Lihou
The smallest of Guernsey’s islands, Lihou offers a true adventure, accessible only at certain low tides via a cobbled causeway. Once there, discover ancient ruins, tidal pools, and protected nature reserves. With its RAMSAR wetlands and marine conservation areas, Lihou is a haven for wildlife, making it perfect for birdwatching and rock pooling.
For a refreshing dip there is the magical Venus Pool, a natural seawater pool that fills at high tide. It is an exhilarating wild swimming spot, especially on a warm summer’s day. The island is home to over 150 bird species, with nesting areas protected in June and July, offering a rare glimpse of nature in its purest form.
Step back in time with a visit to Lihou Priory, believed to have been built in 1114 by Benedictine monks and once under the control of Mont Saint Michel. Whether you are exploring the ruins, spotting wildlife, or simply enjoying a picnic with a view, Lihou is a peaceful escape like no other. Just don’t forget to check the tide times before setting off!
The Little Chapel
Nestled in Guernsey’s Les Vauxbelets valley, the Little Chapel is a charming miniature church covered with pebbles, and broken china.
The current structure, the third iteration, measures approximately 9 feet long by 4.5 feet wide. Over the years, it has become one of Guernsey’s most beloved landmarks, attracting visitors with its intricate design and unique history.
Orchid Fields
Guernsey’s west coast is home to the Orchid Fields, a series of meadows renowned for their vibrant wild orchid displays. These fields, managed by La Société Guernesiaise, showcase four varieties of wild orchids, with the Loose-flowered Orchid being particularly notable. This species is rare in the British Isles but thrives in these traditionally managed meadows.
The orchids typically bloom from mid-May to mid-June. During this period, paths are mown around the fields, allowing visitors to easily view and photograph the flowers. To preserve the delicate flora, visitors are encouraged to stay on these designated paths.
For those wishing to visit, the fields are accessible via Les Vicheries Lane, with signage from the Rocquaine Bay coast road guiding the way. Limited parking is available near the abreuvoir (cattle watering place) towards the southern end of the lane.
Outdoor Guernsey
Outdoor Guernsey have been providing adventure activities on the Islands since 2006. Their qualified guides specialise in providing explorations of the spectacular coastline.
Visitors can book themselves onto any of the regular kayaking or coasteering trips for a unique and unforgettable insight to the real wilderness and hidden parts of Guernsey.
Activities on offer include:
- Kayaking
- Coasteering
- Hire kayaks and paddle boards (locations include Petit Bot, Cobo, Saints Bay, Pembroke bay and the incredible Shell beach in Herm)
- Wildlife tours by kayak in Herm (April to July) and many other specialist tours in Guernsey and Sark
If you are travelling as a group, Outdoor Guernsey provide all their usual activities for all ages and abilities but you may also consider many other bespoke group activities throughout the Islands and at their base at Les Maingys Activity Centre.
Activities run daily all year round, no experience is necessary and all equipment is provided. Rates are available for groups, children and families.
Reservoir Walk
The Millennium Walk at St Saviour’s Reservoir in Guernsey is a tranquil 3 km, 1.9 mile, loop that meanders through serene woodlands and along the reservoir’s edge.
Typically completed in about an hour, the path offers picturesque views and is suitable for families with children.
However, due to uneven terrain and potential muddiness in wet conditions, it is not recommended for pushchairs or wheelchairs.
Visitors can access the trail from multiple points, with parking available near the dam and along adjacent roads.
Sark
Just a 35-50 minute ferry ride from Guernsey, where you have the chance to see the local pod of dolphins, Sark feels like a world away. With no cars on the island, explore its unspoilt landscapes by bike or horse-drawn carriage, immersing yourself in its timeless charm. A day trip offers plenty to see.
Rent a bike to cycle the peaceful lanes or enjoy a traditional horse-drawn carriage tour led by local guides whose families have shared Sark’s magic for generations. Cross the dramatic La Coupée to reach Little Sark, where you can take in stunning coastal views and, if the tide is right, enjoy a dip in the Venus Pool, a spectacular natural rock pool. Whether you’re admiring the scenery or stargazing under pristine skies, Sark promises an unforgettable escape.
Saumarez Park
Saumarez Park, located in the parish of Castel, is Guernsey’s largest public park and a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
The park features expansive lawns, a duck pond with a Japanese style pavilion, and a variety of facilities including a children’s playground and a café.
It is also home to the National Trust of Guernsey’s Folk & Costume Museum, which offers insights into the island’s heritage.
Throughout the year, Saumarez Park hosts numerous events, making it a vibrant hub of activity.
Sausmarez Manor
Sausmarez Manor, located in Saint Martin’s parish, is a historic estate that has been the residence of the de Sausmarez family since around 1205.
Visitors can explore a variety of attractions within the estate, including guided house tours that delve into its rich history, the beautiful gardens, and the internationally recognised Art ParkS Sculpture Park.
Additional amenities include a 9-hole pitch and putt course, a miniature railway, and a café.
Silbe Nature Reserve
Silbe Nature Reserve, located in the parish of St. Peter’s and is a hidden gem in Guernsey.
Managed by La Société Guernesiaise, the reserve encompasses deciduous woodland, wet meadows, scrub, and semi-improved grassland, creating a haven for diverse bird species and flora throughout the year.
Visitors can explore its tranquil paths all year round.
The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for nature walks and wildlife observation.
Please note that dogs are not allowed here.
Walking
Guernsey offers a diverse array of walking experiences, from scenic coastal paths to tranquil inland routes. The island’s compact size makes it ideal for exploration on foot, allowing walkers to immerse themselves in its natural beauty and rich history.
The Guernsey Coastal Path is a 39-mile circuit that showcases the island’s dramatic cliffs, secluded bays, and turquoise waters. Starting and ending in St Peter Port, this route provides walkers with stunning sea views and access to various historical sites.
For those preferring inland scenery, Guernsey offers numerous self guided routes. These trails often highlight the island’s heritage sites, such as prehistoric monuments and traditional farmhouses.
Guernsey hosts annual walking festivals, typically in spring and autumn, featuring guided walks led by accredited guides. These events offer participants the opportunity to explore lesser-known paths and learn about the island’s flora, fauna, and history.
The island’s mild climate and well-maintained paths make it suitable for walkers of all abilities. It’s advisable to wear appropriate footwear, especially on coastal routes where terrain can be uneven. Many paths are equipped with signage and offer amenities such as picnic spots and nearby cafés.
Whether you are seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Guernsey’s varied landscapes provide a rewarding walking experience for all.
Wild Food & Wood Craft Workshops
Enhance your stay with unique workshops on wild food foraging and wood crafting. Hosted by Wild Guernsey, these hands-on experiences include foraging walks, fire-starting, cooking over an open flame, and learning how to incorporate wild ingredients into your meals.
Join the ‘One Wild Food a Day’ gatherings, a collaborative experience exploring seasonal foraging and its gifts through shared walks and meals. Other workshops include coastal foraging with a wild food picnic and hands-on wild food experiences.
Private group bookings and one-to-one mentoring for up to two children per session are also available, offering a tailored experience to connect with nature.
For more details or to book, visit the Wild Hearth website or contact wildguernsey@yahoo.co.uk / 07781 122420.
Wild Swimming
Guernsey offers exceptional sea swimming opportunities all year round, with its clear waters, diverse beaches, and natural pools. The island’s coastline features a variety of swimming spots, from sandy bays to secluded coves, catering to both novice and experienced swimmers.
From the west coast beaches, such as Vazon Bay and Cobo Bay, that are easily accessible and offer amenities like nearby kiosks, perfect for warming up with a hot drink after a swim.
Cliffside coves, like Fermain Bay, Petit Bôt and Moulin Huet provide picturesque settings, combining coastal walks with refreshing swims.
To the Bathing Pools, located in St Peter Port, these historic saltwater pools provide a safe and contained environment, making them ideal for those new to open water swimming. Recent renovations have enhanced the facilities, including new changing rooms and an on-site café.
While Guernsey’s waters are inviting, it’s essential to be mindful of tidal patterns and weather conditions. Always check local tide times, which can be found here and sea conditions before swimming. Swimming with a companion or informing someone of your plans is also advisable.
Whether you are seeking a leisurely dip or an invigorating open water swim, Guernsey’s diverse sea swimming spots offer something for everyone.
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