Guernsey
Guernsey is a picturesque island in the English Channel known for its stunning cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming harbor towns. The island has a rich history dating back thousands of years, with Neolithic burial sites and ancient fortifications scattered throughout the landscape. Guernsey is also famous for its dairy industry, producing delicious creamy butter and award-winning cheeses.
Visitors can explore quaint villages, enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, and relax in the peaceful surroundings of this idyllic island getaway.
- "Good morning" - Bonjour
- "Thank you" - Merci
- "Hello" - Bonjour
- "Goodbye" - Au revoir
- "Please" - S'il vous plaît
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring St. Peter Port
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the Castle Cornet, where you can explore the historical exhibitions. Enjoy the stunning views of the harbor from the top of the castle.
afternoon
:Stroll through the colorful streets of St. Peter Port and visit the local shops and cafes. Don't miss out on the Victor Hugo House for a glimpse into the life of the famous author.
evening
:Dine at a waterfront restaurant and enjoy local seafood delicacies. Take a leisurely walk along the harbor to end your day with beautiful sunset views.
Herm Island Adventure
morning
:Catch a ferry to Herm Island and start your exploration with a walk on the sandy beaches. Sometimes, you can spot seals basking on the rocks.
afternoon
:Have a picnic lunch on the beach, surrounded by natural beauty. Spend the afternoon hiking the coastal paths that offer breathtaking views of the sea.
evening
:Return to Guernsey and unwind at a scenic pub. Enjoy a traditional Guernsey meal and share stories of your day.
Highlights
Good
- No capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or value-added tax, making it financially attractive.
- Beautiful scenery and a mild climate, appealing for outdoor activities and tourism.
- Strong financial services industry and a stable economy.
- Safe environment with low crime rates.
- Rich history and culture with various heritage sites and festivals.
Bad
- High cost of living, particularly for housing and everyday expenses.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Isolated location may lead to limited access to some services and amenities.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and wind.
- Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary for residents.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Coastal Walks
Explore the stunning cliffs and scenic coastlines of Guernsey on a series of coastal walks that offer breathtaking views and a chance to observe local wildlife.
Beaches
Enjoy a day at one of Guernsey's beautiful beaches, like Cobo Bay or Petit Bot, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports.
Water Sports
Try your hand at various water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing in the clear waters surrounding the island.
Biking
Rent a bike and traverse the island's charming lanes, taking in the picturesque views and exploring hidden gems.
Fortifications Tour
Discover Guernsey's history by visiting its various historic forts and bunkers that played a role during WWII, combined with scenic outdoor settings.
Birdwatching
Head to the reserved areas such as the Humps or Les Écréhous for birdwatching opportunities, observing species both native and migratory.
Outdoor Picnics
Take advantage of the island's parks and gardens for picnicking, like in Candie Gardens or St. Peter Port.
Fishing
Engage in fishing, either from the shore or by joining a charter boat, to experience the local marine life and perhaps catch your dinner.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Guernsey with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Castle Cornet
Offers stunning views of the neighboring islands and the coastline.
The Little Chapel
Known for its picturesque surroundings and intricate design, perfect for photography.
Fermain Bay
A beautiful beach with cliffs on either side, providing great photo opportunities.
La Vallette Underground Military Museum
Features panoramic views of St Peter Port and the harbor, as well as historical military exhibits.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bean Jar
A traditional Guernsey dish consisting of beans, pork, and sometimes vegetables, slowly baked for several hours to create a hearty and flavorsome stew. Best enjoyed at local pubs or traditional restaurants like The Octopus or The Auberge.
Must-Try!
Ormer (Abalone)
A prized local delicacy, often served pan-fried in butter or used in seafood stews. Look for ormer dishes at upscale dining establishments like The Leopard Restaurant, where it's expertly prepared and showcased.
Gâche
A sweet bread filled with dried fruits, Gâche is a popular treat often served as a dessert or enjoyed with a cup of tea at local tearooms and bakeries like Octopus Tearooms or Mange Tout.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Guernsey better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
St. Peter Port Market
This vibrant market offers a mix of fresh produce, local cheeses, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Visitors can also find food stalls offering freshly prepared crepes, seafood rolls, and other delicious street food options.
Sausmarez Manor Farmers’ Market
A must-visit for local and artisanal produce, including vegetables, meats, cheeses, and freshly baked goods. The market also showcases street food vendors serving up everything from gourmet burgers to global cuisine.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Heritage
Guernsey has a rich cultural heritage, including its Norman history and the Guernsey language. Showing interest and respect for local customs, traditions, and historical sites is appreciated.
Polite Communication
People in Guernsey value politeness and courtesy. Engaging in friendly small talk and using 'please' and 'thank you' is important in both social and business interactions.
Dress Code and Events
Dress appropriately for occasions. While Guernsey has a relaxed atmosphere, it is respectful to wear smart casual attire for events or gatherings, especially in formal settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Guernsey with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Guernsey, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. In bars, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common. Tipping taxi drivers is also welcomed, usually rounding up to the nearest pound, although it is not expected.
Payment
Payment methods in Guernsey are similar to those in mainland UK. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common. Local currency is the Guernsey pound (GGP), which is pegged to the British pound (GBP). ATMs are available, and currency exchange services can be found in banks and some hotels. Cash is still used in some transactions, especially in smaller establishments.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Guernsey.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March - May)
Best time to see blooming flowers and enjoy mild weather. Also, a great time for birdwatching.
Summer (June - August)
Warmest months with long days, perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
Autumn (September - November)
Milder weather, fewer tourists, and a good time for coastal walks and exploring the island's natural beauty.
Winter (December - February)
Quiet period with shorter days, ideal for cozy stays and exploring the island's historical and cultural attractions.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Guernsey Coastal Path
A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the coastline and rich marine life, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
The Humps
A popular hiking area with a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the Guernsey coast and surrounding islands.
Lihou Island
Accessible during low tide, this small island provides a unique hiking experience with historical sites and beautiful nature.
Belle Greve Bay
A coastal area with paths along the beach, offering a relaxing hike with beautiful sea views.
St. Martin's Coastal Walk
A local favorite that combines coastal views with easy walking paths ideal for hikers of all levels.
Airports
How to reach Guernsey by plane.
Jersey Airport (JER)
Located in Jersey, this is the closest international airport to Guernsey, offering flights to various destinations.
Southampton Airport (SOU)
Located in Southampton, England, this airport serves as a major gateway to various domestic and international flights.
Bournemouth Airport (BOH)
Situated in Bournemouth, England, this airport offers flights to several European destinations.
London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Located in London, this major international airport is roughly 80 miles from Guernsey and connects to a wide range of global destinations.
Guernsey Airport (GCI)
While it serves Guernsey, it also operates international flights, making it a significant airport for the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White British
The largest demographic group in Guernsey, comprising individuals of British descent.
Other White
Includes Europeans from other countries as well as those of mixed heritage.
Asian
A smaller demographic group, including individuals from various Asian countries.
Black or African
A minority group consisting of individuals of Black or African descent.
Mixed or Multiple Ethnic Groups
Individuals who identify with more than one ethnic background.
Other Ethnicities
This group includes individuals who do not fall into the specified categories above.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is one of the most popular sports in Guernsey, with local clubs participating in various leagues and competitions.
Rugby Union
Rugby Union has a strong following in Guernsey, with clubs offering both men's and women's teams competing locally and regionally.
Cricket
Cricket is widely played in Guernsey, with a number of clubs and a strong community, especially during the summer months.
Athletics
Athletics events and competitions are popular, with a focus on track and field events among both youth and adults.
Swimming
Swimming is a favored sport, with various clubs and events held both in pools and open water, making use of Guernsey's coastal location.
Sailing
Given its maritime geography, sailing is a popular sport in Guernsey, with numerous sailing clubs and competitions held throughout the year.
Cycling
Cycling has gained popularity, with residents enjoying both recreational cycling and competitive racing events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many restaurants and cafes in Guernsey offer excellent vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options ranging from plant-based burgers and salads to creatively prepared local produce.
Gluten-Free Dining
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find numerous eateries in Guernsey catering to their needs. From gluten-free pastries to dedicated menu sections, the island's dining scene is accommodating to those requiring gluten-free options.