La Vallette Bathing Pools

For more than 150 years, the residents of Guernsey have been able to enjoy La Vallette bathing pools on Guernsey’s east coast.

Since 1865, La Vallette bathing pools have offered a safe and contained area for salt water swimming, suitable for the whole family!

The water in the pool comes directly from the sea at high tide. The height of the walls allow a certain amount of water to remain in the pool as the tide lowers. The walls also stop an excess of seaweed or sea creatures finding their way into the pools.

In its earlier years, the pools were often visited by many people of great significance, including legendary “Les Misérables” writer Victor Hugo and famous Renaissance painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir.

The Bathing Pools, as they are affectionately known, have been recently rejuvenated providing a welcoming venue to support health and wellbeing, educational opportunities, a love of our environment and a year-round, indoor café that boasts beautiful views across Castle Cornet, the sea and Guernsey’s neighbouring islands.

The pools are made up of four unique coastal swimming spots, the Ladies’, Gent’s and Children’s pool and the Horseshoe Pool - a purpose built ‘U’ shaped bathing place with easy access to swim out into the sheltered bay. Although the pools retain their original names, they are mixed for all swimmers to use.

The pools' facilities also include changing rooms, hot showers, panoramic sun terrace and a stunning event space.

For the latest news from the pools, you can follow their updates on Facebook @ViveLaVallette.

Download the VisitGuernsey App to find out more about the best times to swim, ease of access and much more! 

Images by Ruth Hurst Photography.