There is so much to enjoy in The Islands of Guernsey, a lot of which is outdoors. From long walks along the top of the South coast cliffs to summoning up the courage to jump off them on a coasteering day out, you will find something to do for every person.
Whether you are visiting The Islands of Guernsey for a relaxing week of cream teas and long lazy beach days, or if you are looking to explore every corner of every island, you are bound to spend a huge amount of your holiday enjoying the outdoors, be it out on the water or sitting looking at it. The Islands of Guernsey are a wonderful place to embrace nature and the peace that it can bring. With 4 dedicated RAMSAR sites across our 5 islands and miles of stunning coastline and cycling trails, you will never tire of things to do and explore in the Islands.
We have rounded up a few things to do on your next trip to see us.
Walking and Hiking in the Islands of Guernsey
Walking has long been a wonderful pastime for both locals and visitors alike across all of the Islands of Guernsey. From short walks around quiet country lanes to hikes along stunning cliff paths, you could spend hours walking and enjoying the views each island has to offer. There are also many wonderful historical points of interest dotted all along the coast to entertain and educate you along the way, from castles to forts and everything in between. Each Spring and Autumn, we host a walking festival to encourage all to get out and discover new routes.
Cycling in the Islands of Guernsey
If you’d prefer to move at a slightly quicker pace, bicycles can be hired from several locations on our islands. All except Herm welcome cyclists. While the cliff paths are strictly for pedestrians only, our network of ruettes tranquilles and cycling lanes provide numerous quiet routes perfect for cyclists to explore. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or simply enjoy getting out and about on two wheels with the family when in a new place, the Islands offer an amazing landscape for cycling.
Water sports in the Islands of Guernsey
For the more adventurous visitor, we aren’t all gentle strolls and scones here. There is in fact a huge range of activities to choose from along our 30+ miles of rural coastline. From kayaking and paddle boarding to sailing and coasteering, there is much to do in the waters around our islands. Here are a few ideas for you.
Rib Trips - Enjoy the adrenaline rush as you blast across the sea just inches above the water on an exciting boat trip with Island Rib Voyages. Visit rocks, bays, caves and islands and see the local wildlife on the way - seabirds, seals, puffins and even the occasional dolphin.
Jet Ski Tours - JP’s Jetski Seafaris offer guided tours of the Island's beautiful coastline, whilst at the controls of a state of the art Yamaha VX Waverunner jet ski. No previous jetski experience is necessary as RYA qualified instructors provide full tuition on how to safely drive one of these exhilarating machines, and guide you on a fantastic tour of Guernsey's amazing waters and coastline.
Surfing - Whether you are an experienced surfer or are completely new to the sport, Guernsey is the perfect place to catch some waves and have a great time! Located at Vazon Bay, one of the Island’s most popular beaches and water sport venues, Guernsey Surf School can provide surfboards and wet suits to thrill-seekers of all ability levels, and their expert coaches will have you upright in no time at all!
Paddle boarding - Stand Up Paddle Boarding (or SUP) is recognised as the one of the easiest water sports to learn and once you can SUP, this can then open up a whole new world of adventure. Based at Pembroke Bay, lessons with The Guernsey Stand Up Paddle Board School will ensure you gain a full understanding of the sport, equipment and safety, whilst having fun in the beautiful clear waters of one of Guernsey's beaches.
Other Outdoor Activities - Outdoor Guernsey and Go Guernsey Land and Sea offer many activities for all levels, such as coasteering, abseiling and kayak expeditions amongst many other activities. Take a sunset paddle boarding tour, or rent a kayak at Cobo Bay and explore on your own. You can also rent kayaks and paddle boards from Outdoor Guernsey in Herm on Shell Beach.
Inland Activities in the Islands of Guernsey
Explore the Gardens - Our Islands are known for their wonderful flora and fauna, but we also have some stunning gardens to enjoy too. Once part of a private estate, the award-winning, restored Victorian Candie Gardens offer spectacular views across St Peter Port harbour and our sister Islands of Herm, Sark and Jethou, along with a rare example of a late 19th century public flower garden. The Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden and surrounding Saumarez Park and nature trail contain the finest single collection of trees in Guernsey, and a stroll around will be well rewarded. Tours run daily during the summer months. On Sark, the RHS-recommended La Seigneurie Gardens are also worth a visit. Set within the grounds of a 17th century manor, the garden is considered one of the finest in the Channel Islands. Many unusual half hardy plants thrive within the walled garden, ensuring a colourful display from spring through to autumn.
Take a Tour - The best way to really get to know a place is to speak to someone who knows. Our accredited guides boast a wealth of knowledge and will enhance your trip to the Islands with a walking, cycling or coach tour. Take a tour of our forts and castles, hop over to Herm or Sark for the day with an expert or even follow in the footsteps of Victor Hugo during his time on the Islands with a guided tour. There is plenty to learn whilst also enjoying the sunshine.
Dine Alfresco - With all of the activities on offer on our Islands, you are going to need to stay fueled for a jam-packed schedule. Grab lunch at one of our many kiosks or enjoy a leisurely meal on one of the many outdoor dining spots in our Islands. Find some ideas here.
