Expansive stretches of golden sand, inviting sapphire waters and charming fishing villages may make you think of destinations in the Mediterranean or even further afield. Yet all these wonderful ingredients for a spring or summer holiday exist right on our doorstep, just a 45-minute flight from London. It’s the Channel Islands – a beautiful archipelago in the English Channel that is often overlooked when it comes to planning our travels but has so much to offer.
Take one of our self-guided walking or cycling holidays here and you can explore three of these stunning islands in one trip: Jersey, Guernsey and Sark. That’s precisely what our Senior Product Manager, Cecile Poniard, did. Below, we share her insights into the hidden gems of the Channel Islands, focusing mainly on Sark – her favourite island. Cecile shares what makes this destination such a special place to visit and her advice for making the most of your time there.
While Jersey and, more recently, Guernsey have traditionally held the limelight for attracting visitors to the Channel Islands, Sark is now capturing the imagination of those seeking a tranquil destination with timeless charm and pristine landscapes. Traffic-free, this unspoilt landscape offers utter serenity and simplicity that is just perfect for unwinding.
Visiting Sark was Cecile’s top highlight of her trip to the Channel Islands. She loved its alluring beauty. “It’s such a unique place to explore,” she explained. “The island is car-free, so it is like jumping back in time, where the only means of transport is walking, cycling, or horse carriage! This creates a very special ambience on the island, where everyone is friendly and happy to chat with you.”
Cecile described the landscape, “All along the coastal path were carpets of wildflowers, then, at every corner, there were breathtaking views over crystal-clear waters or deep-blue lagoons.” Walking in this archipelago is simply good for the soul, and Cecile expanded on why, “You can relax, take deep breaths and listen to the bird songs… just taking a peaceful moment with yourself. It’s almost a meditation session!”
Cecile shared that, according to the locals, this island is where JK Rowling came for a few days to get inspiration for her next novel, which will be partly based around this location. “For sure, this place has a lot to offer the imagination,” Cecile added.
When asked about navigating the terrain across the islands, Cecile advised, “The coastal path is mostly easy, but some walks may include lots of steps. Walking poles can be useful on these more challenging routes.” Our trip pages provide details on the different levels of activity for each day’s walk, allowing you to plan options according to your preferences and fitness.
Taking a self-guided trip with Headwater, you’ll also have access to our navigation app, which is easy to follow. Using it on her trip Cecile commented, “The app will remind you when and where to turn and tell you if you are on the wrong path – just make sure your phone is voice-activated! This allows you to enjoy taking in everything around you without having to worry about the direction.”
Another recommendation Cecile makes is to bring binoculars and a waterproof walking phone holder during your walks. The island of Sark has an abundance of sea birds that you will likely be able to spot when walking along the cliff paths. Along with gulls, guillemots, and oystercatchers, characterful puffins can also be seen frequenting the rocky outlets. Remember to also look out for sea mammals in the surrounding waters. The excitement of seeing dolphins, seals or whales leaping and gliding through the waves is a magical experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders.
The Channel Islands are not just a walker’s paradise, they also attract cyclists seeking to explore the islands’ breathtaking sights via two wheels. Our self-guided Cycling in Jersey, Guernsey and Sark trip invites you to uncover the unique character of these three islands in the archipelago. Riding along wide, flat beachside roads and tree-lined country lanes, you can discover beautiful natural harbours, iconic lighthouses, historic fortifications and fascinating sea caves. Cecile commented that cycling around the Channel Islands is not challenging. However, from where she stayed, she needed to tackle a short, steep section from the port to the plateau before beginning each of her routes.
A day out exploring in the sea air is sure to work up an appetite. And on the Channel Islands, the dining options are fantastic. Cecile noted the fresh seafood selection as one of the highlights of her trip. “Fresh seafood is available everywhere. There are fresh crab sandwiches for your picnic lunch, lobster for dinner, or just very tasty fish kebabs with garlic butter – a real delight!”
For a taste of something sweet, Cecile recommended visiting the local chocolate kitchen and guest house in Sark. Here, you can sample luscious handmade chocolates made with local cream that’s almost too thick to pour! Look out for this delightful place on the path towards La Coupée – a spectacular rocky ridge overlooking the sea that leads you from ‘Big Sark’ to ‘Little Sark’. Cecile described how you can sit here for tea or coffee in the garden while you taste a homemade chocolate bar. “This very unique place is a hidden gem and a pleasure for all your senses: wonderful view over the sea, a fragrance of chocolate in the air, enchanting bird songs in the peaceful garden and a treat for the tastebuds when you try these delicacies!”
If you fancy doing something other than walking or cycling one day, the Channel Islands have plenty of options. Jersey’s capital, St. Helier, is rich in history and culture. Highlights include the 16th-century Elizabeth Castle, built on a tidal island in St. Aubin’s Bay, and the Maritime Museum, which tells the story of Jersey’s seafaring past. Then there’s the colourful Central and Beresford Markets, which have been trading for over 200 years!
Guernsey also has an important historical past. Like Jersey, it lived under German Occupation for five years during World War Two. This year is the 80th anniversary of D-Day, and when Cecile visited, she saw many testimonies dedicated to this significant period in history.
On our self-guided walking or cycling trips to the Channel Islands, you’ll stay in several hotels across the three islands. Cecile particularly enjoyed her time at the Duke of Normandie in Guernsey. “It is very central and close to all public transport, coffees, restaurants, shops and the port,” she commented. “The rooms are spacious, comfortable and peaceful, and the hotel offered a great choice for breakfast, with a buffet and a menu of cooked breakfast options. Also, I found the staff to be very friendly and welcoming, and they were always happy to recommend good places for dinner.”
When asked if she has any other advice for people considering visiting the Channel Islands, Cecile said, “Visit in April. It is the best season to travel here, as all the wildflowers are in bloom, creating a simply spectacular landscape.”
Reflecting on her experience of the Channel Islands, Cecile shared, “It’s an incredibly beautiful destination that also offers the comfort of home. You can fly here in less than an hour from London, without any border control, and immerse yourself in a very different corner of the UK, where the deep blue shades of the lagoons and the colourful wildflowers surround you. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a wonderful, stress-free break.”
If Cecile’s descriptions have inspired you to take a holiday closer to home, and discover the glorious Channel Islands for yourself, please take a look at our Holidays in the Channel Islands page to find out more.
