Britain’s Best Getaways: Herm Island, Guernsey

“Herm is where the heart is. Herm Island is a haven of calm in an increasingly frenetic world” – Visit Guernsey

If you are looking for a relaxing vacation where you can truly unwind, then Herm Island is the best place for you to stay. With its glorious sandy beaches, award winning gardens, beautiful birds and wildflowers, breath-taking views from cliff paths and no cars or crowds, it is truly the perfect Channel Island holiday.

Herm Island, only a twenty minute ferry drive from Guernsey, is just over a mile long by half a mile wide. It would take you less than two hours to walk around Herm. Nevertheless, there is so much to do and see at this traffic-free paradise. Herm Island was established by the Wood family who ran the Island from 1949. Since 2008, guardianship of the Island has been taken over by the Starboard Settlement.

The peaceful island offers unspoilt beaches and breath-taking scenery of its gardens. Every Tuesday throughout the summer, you can join a garden tour which the Island’s head gardener, Brett Moore, leads. The gardens have won the coveted Britain in Bloom title twice and are a must-see for every gardening enthusiast.

Herm’s little chapel, which dates back to the 11th century, has a lot of history which you can explore, with amazing stained glass windows, Neolithic tombs and one of the smallest prisons in the world.

Alternatively, you could spend a relaxing day at Shell Beach or Belvoir Bay, sunbathing or enjoying a nice picnic or ice-cream at one of the beach café’s. Or you could head down to Herm’s Mediterranean-style piazza to find good value items, from beach goods to jewellery and clothes. Or you could explore the other fun activities available to enjoy on the island, including boating, kayaking and fishing!

With its beautiful scenery, Herm Island is the perfect place for you to get off the beaten track and discover its amazing nature.

Enjoy your stay at Herm Island at its fullest by staying at The White House hotel where there are no telephones, televisions or clocks so you can truly unwind. It is the only hotel on the island, so even at the height of summer, crowds are unheard of. From the moment you step ashore and baggage porters relieve you of your luggage for the short stroll to the White House, you know you are in for a very special holiday experience. Relax by the pool, play croquet, or curl up in front of the fire with a good book. From the White House, it’s a couple of minutes’ walk down to the island’s shops and inn, or just 15 minutes to cross the island to popular Belvoir Beach, where a secluded garden area has been set. Maps are available from the island to help you to explore the island’s rich history. Ask for more information at the hotel.

Enjoy Herm Island!

Shell Beach Herm Island image by Catherine Cronin Shell Beach Herm Island II image and Herm pathway by Luke Gray