Miles of coastal cliffs and breathtaking beach resorts, Guernsey is only a few hours away, yet you’ll feel as if you are abroad.
From coasteering to kayaking, wind surfing to foodie foraging, outdoor enthusiasts of all types will love to roam this gorgeous Channel Island.
And food and wine enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice.
Must sees for free
Jerbourg Point is the perfect place to see a panoramic view of the south of Guernsey.
There is ample car parking so you can just simply sit and admire the view, if you’re more daring you can walk down to the bottom of Jerbourg Point and watch the waves crash against the shore.
Take a trip up to Vale castle, which is over 1,000 years old and sits on top of a hill looking over the south coast where you can see all the way across to Bordeaux harbour.
Walk through the German trenches beside it or check online for any events happening at the castle during your stay, such as music festivals and performances.
If you prefer the sight of lush gardens as opposed to the coast then head to Candie Gardens, a beautiful 19th Century garden in the heart of St Peter Port. With spectacular views over the harbour and neighbouring islands, the site also includes a café, a museum and art galleries.
Top sees for a fee
If you want to get close to nature or are looking for adventure, you will find plenty of opportunities on the stunningly beautiful Island of Guernsey.
Adventure activities including kayaking, kayak hire, coasteering and climbing are all available.
Set within the 18th century sable complex of Saumarez Park, the Folk and Costume museum offers an insight into all aspects of daily life on Guernsey for the past 250 years.
This is a very interesting compact museum covering the history of Guernsey, set in a series of buildings surrounding a courtyard, each room offers exhibits showing a different aspect of Guernsey’s history.
Tickets are £6 for adults and free for members of the National Trust.
During the Second World War Germany occupied The Channel Islands - this was the only part of the British Isles under German control.
Take a tour round the beautiful coastlines showing the well-preserved fortifications built by German soldiers, and the museums that recreate those dark days with gripping exhibits.
From £61, get tickets here.
Eating out
The cream of the crop has to be Le Nautique, overlooking the busy port of the east side of the island.
With an extensive menu of fish and seafood specialities, alongside a mouth-watering array of meat and vegetarian fare, there is a dish for every taste and a spectacular view to enjoy.
For a more relaxed atmosphere head to Café Delices in the historic market square in St Peter’s Port.
One of the largest al-fresco dining spots, it is bathed in sun for the majority of the day (weather permitting).
It has a creperie style menu offering galettes, crepes, omelettes and salads with various local offerings.
Going out
Guernsey after dark is a low key affair, think more deep reds at sunset than shots until dawn.
However, there are a couple of nightclubs on the island, Fusion Nightclub and Barbados Beach Club can be found at The Pollet.
There is an array of local pubs serving local draught beers and also several stylish cocktail bars can be found around St Peter’s Port and within a number of luxury hotels scattered throughout the island.
Getting around
Guernsey has a comprehensive network of public buses that cover all the major attractions making them a great option to get around visit the website for more information
Hiring a car gives you the most flexibility when it comes to getting around the island.
Be warned that the maximum speed limit is 35 mph on the Island.
Guernsey is the ideal size to get around by bike and the island has a number of bike friendly lanes as well as a number of cafes and kiosks along the way to keep you going.
Hotels
Luxury The Old Government House Hotel & Spa: commanding amazing views across the harbour and neighbouring islands, the hotel boasts more than 150 years in hospitality.
Sea facing rooms with balconies, gourmet dining, a luxurious spa and heated outdoor pool make this hotel a destination in itself on this charming island escape.
Ann’s Place, St Peter Port, from £181 - £391.
Mid-range Cobo Bay Hotel: Overlooking one of the island’s most beautiful bays, the hotel is ideally located and has a wonderful team of staff who are on hand to help.
The breakfast is one of the most talked about aspects of the hotel on Tripadvisor, worth visiting just for a good start to day with a dazzling view.
Cobo Coast Road, Castel, £96 - £200.
Budget Auberge du Val: Perfect for a secluded island getaway, you will find comfortable rooms with free wi-fi and parking as well as some wonderful local seafood restaurants.
With only nine rooms and a free breakfast for guests you’ll enjoy a peaceful stay at a fraction of the cost.
Sous L’Eglise, Saint Saviour GY7 9FX, £62 - £88.
Fact file
Currency: Pound sterling, though some places accept Euros.
Time zone: GMT (Summer, GMT+ 1hr)
The flight: 1hr 30mins all year round from as little as £41 return.
Best time to visit: Flights are cheapest during the winter but the best time to visit is from June to September when the warm weather is great for spending time on the beaches and exploring the glorious countryside.
Visas, injections and precautions: None.