Travel to Guernsey

Travel to Guernsey

Located near the north coast of France and surrounded by the temperate waters of the Gulf Stream, the island makes for an ideal holiday escape. A stimulating mix of spectacular scenery and the finest of modern living, Guernsey is the ideal destination. Exciting walks along the cliff paths, hikes through the rustic interior or relaxing days on the islands attractive beaches, Guernsey has it all.

Transportation to Guernsey

Guernsey is accessible all year round from a variety of locations on mainland Britain, France, Zurich and Amsterdam and during the summer at weekends from Rotterdam, Dortmund and Hanover. Airlines operating from Guernsey Airport include Aurigny Air Services, Flybe, British Airways Express and Swiss. Guernsey Airport (GCI) is located four miles from St Peter Port, the islands tiny capital city. Transportation from the airport to town is available by bus and taxi, with an approximate travel time of 15 minutes. Facilities at the terminal include ATMs, car rental, tourist information, first aid room, shops (including duty free shop in the departure lounge) and light snacks. The flight from London to Guernsey takes about one hour. Another option is to travel by ferry, with Condor Ferries operating car and passenger catamaran services to Guernsey from Poole, Weymouth and St Malo in France. A car ferry also sails to Portsmouth. There are also services from Jersey. Manche Iles Express offers sailings from a range of French ports and from Jersey. Day trips can be made to Herm, Jersey and Sark by ferry. Inter-island flight services are also provided by Aurigny Air Services.

What to see

St Peter Port is the islands tiny capital and has preserved much of the ambience of a traditional fishing village. Its old church partly dates from the 12th century. Hauteville House, on top of the hill south of St Peter Port, is the former home of famous French writer Victor Hugo. Guernsey is home to a broad range of beaches lining its coastline. A couple of beautiful beaches are within walking distance of St Peter Port, namely Havelet Bay and Belle Grve Bay. Fortifications are dotted all around the coast, including Ivy Castle, a Norman stronghold near Le Bouet, and Vale Castle at St Sampson. Fortress Rousse, an 18th-century tower, lies on the west coast and is now open to the public.

Daytrips

Day trips by ferry and air can be made to the neighbouring islands of Alderney, Sark and Herm. These offer some stunning scenery and age-old traditions. Sark has banned the motor car, while Alderney features the Channel Islands only railway line. Herm is home to remnants of Neolithic inhabitants.

Activities and leisure

Guernseys location and mild climate offer great conditions for water sports, above all swimming and sailing. Diving trips and courses are available from the Guernsey School of Diving/Sarnia Skin Divers and other organisations. The island is home to two 18-hole golf courses as well as one 9-hole course, offering stunning views. Hiking tours are also popular.

Safety issues

Cycling in Guernsey can be quite dangerous, especially when large lorries and buses are passing. Water sports also present outdoor enthusiasts with certain risks. We highly recommend you take out sufficient travel insurance for you and your family.