Many visiting Guernsey have come under it's spell
and returned year after year to once again sample its unique charms from its
continental character but with its very British devotion. It is an island of
contrasts to satisfy the needs of most people whether they be young or old.
Cliff walks are spectacular, and the unpolluted
beaches are renowned for being among the cleanest in the British Isles. The
island regularly wins clean beach awards and flags displaying this achievement
are proudly displayed above beach kiosks islandwide.
For children the beaches are a haven of rock
pools and bright clean sands to play upon.
The north and west coasts have long
sandy beaches and splendid surroundings. For adults there is an abundance of
sports, historical buildings, crafts and restaurants. Most bars and restaurants
cater for the whole family and throughout the island there is an abundance of
fresh seafood dishes on the menus.
The capital and main town is St. Peter Port. Its
cobbled streets and elegant houses and shops make a superb backdrop to the
harbour front and the yacht marinas.
The South of the island has high cliffs
stretching from Pleinmont to Jerbourg. Cliff paths meander along the 16 mile
length giving the walker breathtaking views down to the sea and rocks.
The neighbouring islands of Herm, Sark, Jethou
and Brecqhou can be seen off the coast almost within jumping distance giving a
wonderful tropical islands atmosphere. On a clear day Jersey may be seen off the
south coast as well as Alderney from the north of the island, very occasionally
the French coast can also be spotted embracing the whole of the Channel Islands
as if in a protective manner. Daily boat trips are available to all of the
islands and there is a regular air service to Alderney, France and Jersey.
Guernsey is rich in history and one of the
earliest historic sites is that of Les Fouillages, a Neolithic stone tomb within
the boundaries of the Golf Course at L'ancresse (in the north of the island).
Described by archaeologists as one of the most outstanding finds of its kind in
Western Europe it was a focal point used for some 1500 years by Guernsey's first
farmers and villagers.
Guernsey was occupied by German forces during the
Second World War and all over the island are the reminders of the occupation in
the form of bunkers, towers and museums including the German Underground
Hospital in the St. Andrew's parish.
The island only measures five miles by seven
miles but there are hundreds of miles of roads and lanes. However, it is
impossible to get lost for very long, as one soon finds themselves on a familiar
coast road. It is an ideal place to ride bicycles and a scenic bicycle route has
been mapped and signposted for visitors.
The magnificent views, friendly atmosphere and
the variety of excellent restaurants make Guernsey a unique and wonderful place to
be..
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