Discovering Guernsey On Foot

For those of you who might not have heard much about Guernsey before, it is an island found in the English Channel between France and the UK. Being only twenty-five square miles in size, the Guernsey is the perfect destination for holidaymakers looking to get around on foot and walk through nature’s wondrous beauty. The range of walking routes on such a small island is amazing; you can be walking hand-in-hand with your partner along one of many beaches, discovering a scenic nature trail during a family adventure, taking a determined hike along the south coast cliff paths, and much more. To celebrate this, I have put together a small guide to two of my favorite walking routes in Guernsey.

Discovering The Island of Guernsey On Foot

The Saumarez Park Walk

Saumarez Park Guernsey

Located in the western parish of Castel, Saumarez Park is one of the focal points of the island’s social events calendar, and it is also the starting point for this walk. For those inclined to do so, you can take a great family walk around the park, visiting its Victorian walled garden, folk museum, and tearooms as well. Taking the exit next to the folk museum, head down Ruette de la Generotte for about 200 meters, before taking a right turn down a small path for pedestrians. It’s a great way to get back to nature, as you follow this path onto La Percée and take the second right onto Rue de la Lande. 250 meters up the road you can either turn off into Le Guet, a pine forest filled with great trails and historic fortifications, or follow the main road onto the coast. Heading north, you will need to make your way onto Route de Cobo, and then onto Rue de Bouverie and Ruette de la Tour, where the highlight of the walk starts. Having walked around 450 meters down Ruette de la Tour, from Rue de Bouverie, you will find The Saumarez Nature Trail on your right. Follow the nature trail all the way back to Saumarez Park, taking in the splendors of one of Guernsey’s most beautiful nature trails.

Length ≈ 5.2 kilometers / 3.2 miles
Time: 2 hours

Victorian St Peter Port

Oak Gallery Hauteville House

This walk starts in the heart of the town center, at the iconic Town Church. Take in the architectural wonders of the church, then head up the high street, before turning left into the Commercial Arcade just 25 or so meters from the church. Explore the arcade and do some shopping if you so wish, before taking the steps, just after Dix Neuf restaurant, up to Clifton, where you can take in spectacular views of St Peter Port. Next, I take Clifton Steps back down to Market Street and continue my walk up Mill Street, into the Old Quarter of the town center. Wandering along the cobbled streets, taking in the atmosphere before turning left onto Le Bordage, heading back towards the town center. On your right, after Tower Hill, will be a set of stairs, which you can head up and turn right, walking up Hauteville. 160 meters up Hauteville, on the left, is Hauteville House, otherwise known as the home of Victor Hugo, the author of Les Miserables, where he resided for 15 years during his exile from France. Tours of the house are run on most days and it’s great to take in the heritage of one of Guernsey’s most famous residents. Leaving Hauteville House, head back down towards Town Church; on your way you will pass a fully restored Victorian shop, offering great gifts and souvenirs. Once you are back near Town Church, the walk concludes by heading to the highly visible Castle Cornet, where you can take in spectacular views, 5 separate museums, and take a well-earned break in the castle’s tearoom.

Length ≈ 3.1 kilometers / 1.9 miles
Time: 1 hour

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About The Author
Jamie Hunts loves living in Guernsey and loves even more the idea of spreading the message about his wonderful island home. Jamie recommends using Visit Guernsey to learn more about a holiday to Guernsey.