Situated in the English Channel, between England and France, most of the islands are a unique blend of British and French food, signs and culture. For visitors from the UK, it is like going abroad without the problem of foreign language or currency. Each of the islands has its own individual style, and they are all easily reached by boat.
Guernsey
The second largest of the Channel Islands, Guernsey is an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday and a leisurely pace of life. The natural beauty of the land and coast is complemented by the comfortable lifestyle and friendliness of its people. As with the some of the other islands, there is a French feel to parts of the island, but its roots are firmly British.
St Peter Port, the bustling main town, is the busiest place with a pedestrianised shopping area and excellent restaurants along its slightly hilly centre. The cobbled streets are exactly as they were hundreds of years ago, and only some of the shop fronts have changed during previous decades.
The Old Quartet of the town, which is a short, fairly steep walk up the winding cobbled hill, is a joy for anyone who loves browsing through craft shops, antiques and art galleries. The main street also boasts high quality fashion boutiques, jewellers and a few of the chain stores found in the UK.
There is a picturesque harbour with a walkway out to Castle Cornet. This ancient royal fortress dates originally from the 13th century, but much was added during the 14th and 16th centuries. There are three museums open to visitors, a restaurant and ancient gardens.
As might be expected from an island with French and British influences, restaurants are numerous and excellent, both in St Peter Port and throughout the countryside and coastal areas. Fresh fish, caught earlier in the day, is a speciality all over the island, and Guernsey is famous for its tomatoes. The only difficulty for visitors is in deciding which restaurant to try first.
There is a very good bus service for getting around the island, or visitors can walk, hire a bicycle, or car. Taxis and mini-buses are also available. There are many interesting places, including the German Occupation Museum, the Little Chapel which is made out of broken glass and china and is possibly the smallest in the world, and the Guernsey Tapestry, ten huge panels depicting the island's history.
It is worth calling in at the excellent tourist information centre near the harbour in St Peter Port where visitors may view the DVD on Guernsey, and can even take a free copy home.
Alderney
Alderney is the third largest of the Channel Islands and is a peaceful, unspoilt retreat, ideal for nature lovers. Only three miles long and a mile wide, the island lies 23 miles from Guernsey. With around 2,000 inhabitants, beautiful sandy beaches, cliff walks, sea fishing and golf, there is a relaxed ambience to this island.
St Anne's, the capital, offers good food and accommodation. Alderney has the only railway in the Channel Islands, operated by volunteers during the summer. There is a museum in the centre of town, outlining the island’s colourful history. Alderney was also under German occupation during WWII and there are still fortifications and reminders of those four years.
Sark
Sark is truly a step back in time, as there are no cars or airport, and few roads. The only way to get around this beautiful, natural island of two square miles is by bicycle, foot, or horse-drawn carriage. A tractor-drawn trailer operates between 6am and 10pm. Twisting coastline, stunning views and wild flower valleys make it worth the visit. There are five hotels and some wonderful restaurants on the island.
Arriving by ferry, visitors are dropped off at the very small jetty. Since the only way up to the village is by way of a long, steep road, most people opt for the tractor-drawn trailer or horse-drawn carriage, rather than the exhausting walk. Once at the top of the hill, cycling is the best way to enjoy the lanes and cliff paths around the island. Little Sark is joined by a causeway which must be carefully crossed by foot.
Herm
Herm is another island without cars, and is within easy distance of Guernsey. The smallest island, it is known as a beach paradise, where the stress of modern life evaporates. With a hotel, self-catering and camping, visitors can stay longer than a day. Tours around the gardens are available with the island's head gardener.
A holiday in any, or all, of the Channel Islands is an excellent way to unwind from the bustle of modern living. With an abundance of natural flora and fauna, glorious coastlines and excellent cuisine, there is a real ‘get away from it all’ feel to most of the islands. The largest Channel Island, Jersey, is within distance of the other islands and is also worth a visit.
Further details about Guernsey and the smaller islands is available from the excellent Visit Guernsey site, where the latest holiday brochure is available.
Rosemary Gemmell - Professional freelance writer of published short stories and articles in the UK, US and online. Author of historical romance and ...
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