Unpause Life This Summer
June 8, 2021 10:36 amReady for a Short Break to the Islands of Guernsey?
It’s time to unpause life and enjoy a short break to the Islands this summer. Whether you are wanting a relaxing long weekend or an action packed outdoors adventure the Duke of Normandie Hotel provides the ideal base.
With the news that from the 1st July, The Islands of Guernsey – Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm – are planning to remove all testing and self-isolation requirements for visitors from the UK and other parts of the British Isles, we are preparing to welcome back tourists to our shores, allowing you to unpause life once again here in our Islands.
Thanks to Visit Guernsey for sharing the ideas below:
Here are some ideas on what to do – day or night – on your next short break to The Islands of Guernsey this summer.
ST PETER PORT HIGH STREET
Daytime Adventures: Walking, Shopping & Culture
One great way to start the day on Guernsey, is a walk along the stunning cliff paths. Wander along St Peter Port’s seafront, join the footpath towards Fermain Bay, where you can enjoy a coffee with a view at the Fermain Beach Cafe. The cafe opens at 10am so if you are an early bird, you may miss it. However, if you’ve had a casual mid-morning stroll to the bay, then you can treat yourself to a long, lazy lunch before wandering back along the pretty cliff paths. Take in the stunning views on your way back.
St Peter Port has a lot of local boutiques of carefully curated collections, ready for you to enjoy an afternoon of dipping in and browsing. You are sure to find a unique souvenir of your time on the Islands. For an afternoon coffee break, Taylor’s of Market Square is a great place to get an excellent cup along with a custard tart. Or pop into Christies Brasserie for a cup of tea. Guernsey is also known for its dairy, so an afternoon tea is also a must when on the islands. Most hotels offer a great experience.
The Duke of Normandie Hotel is located a stones throw from the high street.
CASTLE CORNET
If you are looking for a touch of culture during your time on the islands, you will not be disappointed. There is so much history on the islands.
Just a short walk from the town centre, Castle Cornet not only offers a fascinating insight into hundreds of years of island history – but spectacular panoramic views back towards St Peter Port and out across our sister islands. This 800 year old castle standing at the mouth of the harbour and much bigger than it first appears.
Explore five museums and four period gardens and feel free to enjoy the daily attractions which include a guided tour at 10.30am, firing of the noon-day gun by scarlet clad gunners, and living history performances.
Walking from the Duke of Normandie Hotel to Castle Cornet takes (approx) ten minutes.
THE FERRY TO HERM ISLAND
Island Hopping & Beach Life
The wonder of The Islands of Guernsey is the fact that you can enjoy day trips and island hop to your heart’s content during your time here. One easy hop is over to Herm Island. Just a 15min ferry ride from St Peter Port, you can pop over to Herm for a day trip. It’s the ideal beach day. Get off the boat and head to the other side of the island to enjoy the expansive Shell Beach or sheltered cove Belvoir Bay. Both offer kiosks to get drinks and snacks.
On Shell Beach, you can also hire paddle boards and kayaks to have some fun on the water. Make sure you leave space for a traditional pub meal at The Mermaid and a browse in the shops for a souvenir before leaving. And keep an eye out on the water on your trip back to Guernsey, as you may even be lucky enough to spot some dolphins on your crossing. They often like to come out and play in the waves when the boats go by.
You can’t come to the islands without spending a lot of time exploring the many beaches and coves dotted along the coastline. Whether you are looking to explore the coastline whilst kayaking or coasteering, or whether you just want a sunny spot to read and book and relax, the Islands offer both. For a quiet cove, try Petit Bot or Port Soif.
If you want a bigger beach, Cobo and Pembroke are great options and both have nearby restaurants to make a day of it.
EVENING COCKTAILS
How to Spend Your Evenings
If you are staying in town, then you are just a hop, skip and a jump away from all of the action. Start your evening with a tipple in the sun. The Crown Club terrace is a lovely place to enjoy a drink and nibbles looking out over the neighbouring islands. If you are looking for a pub patio atmosphere, then the nearby Prince of Wales beer garden is a lovely little suntrap and has a nice buzz as it fills up with locals enjoying the evening sun.
Then it’s time to head for dinner. Octopus Bar & Restaurant is a great place to enjoy some local seafood and offers uninterrupted evening views over the water and lit-up castle with a lovely ambiance. In fact, there are many different options in St Peter Port from sushi at The Hook to quality French fare at Le Petit Bistro. For Italian, try Gusto for some a satisfying pasta or Rosso for an authentic pizza overlooking the harbour. For a nightcap, there are various bars along the seafront on your walk home.
Try upstairs at The Hook, or Mojito for a party feel. For a quieter tipple, Rouge & Tinto are both good options. Another option is to head over to Cobo Bay to enjoy traditional fish and chips on the beach as you watch the sun set. Locals and visitors alike all agree that you have to experience one Cobo sunset in your life. Don’t miss it.