Don’t Forget About Europe’s Channel Islands!

You may have heard about the Channel Islands off the coast of California – but Europe’s Channel Islands are another locale you should definitely remember if you are planning an upcoming trip to Europe. 

The Channel Islands are defined as a group of islands in the English Channel, off the French coast of Normandy, but they belong under British rule.  Collectively they include the inhabited islands of:

  • Jersey
  • Guernsey
  • Alderney
  • Herm
  • Sark
  • Brecqhou
  • Jethou
  • Lihou

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Jersey and Herm when I made a side trip when visiting friends in England.  My friends encouraged me to take this little island jaunt to visit this unique area of Europe.  I learned from them that the islands are famous for their finance industries, their marine and bird life and for two of the islands – for their cows!  The Jersey Cow and the Guernsey cow!

I visited the islands by boat and felt that was an authentic and fun way to get there.  First stop was Jersey.  I had a couple of days so I carefully planned my itinerary.  First off, I visited the famed zoo, which was an interesting way to spend several hours.  Next, I visited Mont Orgueil Castle that overlooks the harbor of Goney.  Apparently, this castle protected the Island from invasion since the early 13th century.

On my second day, I wasn’t feeling all that well, so I choose to enjoy the beaches on the island to relax and rest.  Gazing out to the sea from the comfort of my beach towel with a book in hand was just what the doctor ordered!

Next, it was onto Herm Island.  The smallest of the Channel Islands, cars and bicycles are banned making this a walker’s paradise.  An abundance of white sandy beaches makes it the perfect place to spend the day.  The island is only 1 ½ miles long and less than a half mile wide so it is easy to explore.  You’ll find that the northern half of its coastline is surrounded by the lovely sandy beaches, while the southern half is rocky.  I enjoyed my time at the two main tourist areas – Belvoir Bay and Shell Beach.

The Channel Islands really are beautiful places to visit.  If you are in France or England on a vacation deal, why not plan your own trip too.  You’ll love the relaxed pace of the islands and their rugged, natural beauty!

Posted by on 02/20 at 03:53 PM

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