Romantic Things To Do In Guernsey For Couples

Guernsey was a coastal playground, where couples hearts coexisted in seamless harmony. It was an island of forever where engaged couples would come to get married, shakily citing their vows under the gaze of Guernsey’s watchful eye. In the land of sun worshippers was an endless calm, couples meeting for the first time at Vazon Bay, golden silken sand enveloping their feet. They walked bare foot across sand dunes, waving at the people canyoning across the jagged rocks. Sharp like danger, romantic things to do in Guernsey weren’t without its precautions, adrenaline junkies thrilled by the mermaid-like coves. They took their weekend break in Guernsey one day at a time, weaving history, culture and nature seamlessly.

Ana unbound her long hair, teased by the gentle breeze, the sharp scent of salt air drifting into her nostrils. Driftwood washed up on the seashore, eroding before her eyes, waves nipping playfully at her ankles. She turned and smiled at D, her merman and co-adventurer, the ginger Viking, who wouldn’t be seen out of place on a pirate ship. Together they would map out their love story, having adventured through unique date ideas in Suffolk in their previous quest. Today was the time for a new coastal journey, beautiful UK staycations where loved conquered all.

Ancient thoughts and solemn memories were etched onto cliff faces, a shoreline of  treasures awaited their hungry minds. They were famished, craving the taste of the salty sea water on their skin, floating between sea and sky, as the wispy clouds performed. As the sky deepened into a perfect blue, they sat enthralled at Shell Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Channel Islands. Millions of tiny shell fragments, washed in from the Gulf Stream, which gave the sandy expanse its name, the mermaids weaving in and out of choppy open waters.

Coastal walks and sunset picnics, playing tetherball at Port Soif Bay, a sandy beach close to ST Peter’s Port. Fine white sands intermingled with teal rippled currents, the sizzle of a nearby BBQ roasting vegan kebabs, sausages, and burgers, as the couple got sporty. They would give skimboarding a go, the couple launching their seperate skimboards into the greenish blue sea, gliding across the water’s surface. They met the incoming breaking wave, with a confident stride, riding it back to shore with hurrahs and shouts. Today was going to be a good day.

As a couple they always loved trying new things, Dan brought up by the beach in Plymouth, no stranger to a beach game or two. Together they would make Guernsey their play park, bewitched by the hypnotic allure of the Guernsey islands, Alderney, Sark and Herm a must-see too. There would be wild nights laughing with cider tasting and a tour at Roquette Cider, D’s favourite drink lining his belly with love. They wandered through the orchard and imagined they were apple picking, the golden glow of the sunset bathing them in heavenly light.

Together they explored Guernsey Dating with an open mind and heart, their arms and legs growing heavy with sleepy contentment. Their action packed itinerary was incredible, and for the first time in a while, they slept well like babies, cradled together in a double bed. As morning broke, they smiled at each other sleepily, angel dust lining their eyes. From historic sites, to beaches, landmarks, cultural and theme tours and gardens, Guernsey had it all. But where would the young couple go to next? It would be Hauteville House in Guernsey that would bring them closer.

Home of the French activist and writer Victor Hugo, A marvelled at how this man had a self-imposed 15 year exile in this very home. A stark, aesture exterior was unassuming, but the house interior itself was maximalism at its finest, garish reds clashing with gold gilded statues, a pastiche of mosaics and tiles littered around the house. A held her breath, so honoured to be a part of history, revelling in its over-the-top finery. D, though not a history buff, was relieved to have a break from water sports, smiling at A who always got so passionate when she was talking history. They extended their weekend break by a few more days, not ready to give up this unbridled freedom just yet…

When they were looking for romantic things to do in Guernsey, there was one spot that stood out from the rest, Candie Gardens in all its award winning glory. The restored Victorian gardens were impeccably kept, lush green grounds with pops of colour, the flowers blooming joyfully, as the couple smooched overlooking peaceful vistas. There were no worries here, only peace and tranquility, the anxiety seeping out of their veins flawlessly. But their journey wasn’t over just yet; from going back in time at Castle Cornet, to kayaking in Guernsey, their forever together began now.

Get An Adrenaline Rush At Outdoor Guernsey

Adrenaline was A & D’s middle name, caught up in the unadulterated rush of water sports in Guernsey. After all the island was primed for adventure, secret coastal caves for explorers to go caving, clifftop hikes that made you feel on top of the world. They wanted to cram all the water activities in one day, and with Outdoor Guernsey, all their water and land based dreams could come true. An adventure activities provider, the happy couple would do everything from coasteering to paddleboarding, right through to Sup Yoga, an extraordinairy experience.

Coasteering would be at the top of their adventure list, kitted out in a 5mm wetsuit, buoyancy aid and helmet, as they explored Guernsey’s majestic rocky coastline. With the magnificient ocean on their doorstep, they would turn the rocks, cliffs, caves and waves into playthings, at one with coasteering in more ways than they could imagine. They felt exhilarated, immersiving themselves in seal level traversing, rock scrambling and swimming in gullies and caves. It was in one magical grotto that they found tiny sprites, ethereal creatures that were invisble to all but themselves. Smiling shly, the sprites came to say hello, perching on Ana’s open palm inquisitively and with wonder.

They gave them the secret code to mastering Outdoor Guernsey, imploring them to try kayaking next, coaxing them to become adrenaline junkies who felt no fear. A guided 2 hour kayak exploration was insane, a memorable and romantic excursion around Guernsey coast, exploring the island at their own pace. The experienced instructors weaved beguiling narratives, enchanting the couple with their knowledge of the environment, history and wildlife of Guernsey. Stunningly beautiful, their love intensified in the ocean that day, plunging into submission.

Navigating the water kingdom had its perks, face to face with breathtaking postcard views, that were seemingly plucked from fairytale lore. It almost didn’t seem real, they had to rub their eyes twice, kayaking from Havelet to Fermain Bay, the sands of time running out. Enamoured, their thirst for water sports hadn’t abated just yet. Stand up paddleboarding would be something new for A to try, not brought up on the beach as D was once had. The world’s fatest growing watersport, it was easy to see why, ideal for developing fitness and core strength.

They pondered over whether to have a lesson, hire a board or join an exploration with an instructor, but in the end self-education won out. Hiring a board, D was very confident in his paddleboarding abilities to teach A how to master the ocean, but this part time mermaid was a little clumsy. The board was surprisingly stable but she wobbled like a new born calf, jelly legs as she struggled to let go of her fear.

Starting off kneeling, she built up the confidence to stand on the board, D laughing at her as she promptly fell into the water. Wiping tears of laughter from his face, he helped her back onto the board, until she was confident enough to try again. With practice came self-assurance, and with self-assurance came determination to master the paddleboard. She stepped outside of her comfort zone, took a deep breath and challenged herself. Soon she was paddling around the bay, adrenaline surging through her body. She had bloody well done it, at long last.

*Prices of Outdoor Guernsey experiences vary, depending on the excursion.

Kayaking explorations (2 hours) is £35 per adult, and £25 for under 16’s. For coasteering, the two hour routes are the same as above. For a three hour route, it is £45 for adults. For stand up paddleboarding, a 1 hour lesson is £25 per person, 2 hours is £35 per adult, and £25 for under 15’s. Board hire is £12 per hour, or £35 for 4 hours and £45 for 8 hours. A Jumbo Sup costs £50 per hour.

 

Kiss At The Little Chapel, Les Vauxbelets

When it came to looking for romantic things to do in Guernsey, nothing was as highly reccomended as ‘The Little Chapel‘. Located in the Les Vauxbelets valley in Saint Andrew, Guernsey, it was created in July 1914 by Brother Déodat. He planned to create a miniature version of the grotto and basilica at Lourdes, the Rosary Basilica. Boy had he succeeded, one of Guernsey’s most beloved landmarks. Thought to be the smallest consecrated chapel in the world, tourists flocked from near and far to see Little Chapel in person, mesmerized by its glory.

Free to visit, the chapel and its unique intricate design was made up of seashells, pebbles and broken china, the mosaic style revering ‘pique-assiette’. Otherwise known as ‘Picassiette’, the French term played homage to Pablo Picasso and ‘plate pinching’,  defined as the type of person who would crash into a party to enjoy a free meal. Ana gingerly traced the mosaic with her eyes, reminding her of Raymond Isidore’s home ‘Maison Picassiette, which was created in the same style as the Little Chapel. With room for eight people, the chapel was intimate and quiet, the epitome of tranquil and romantic things to do in Guernsey, where you didn’t need money to show your love.

From a distance the colours and design appeared as a whole, but as you moved closer to the chapel, you were surprised by its mismatched intricracies, gaps in the design that added to its quaint charm. Blues, whites and greens complemented each other well, surrounding by lush green trees sheltering the chapel from harm, a calm oasis in Guernsey, where nothing else mattered but the here and now.

Despite its size, the chapel was renowned around the world, arguably a talking point in the Channel Islands for being an intricately decorated tiny place of worship. As much a curiosity as a work of art, Brother Déodat died before his chapel was finished, but would be proud knowing the miniature beauty that it was today. Under the watchful gaze of holy saints, the young couple clapsed hands, the spirits of the ‘passed ons’ welcoming them into their humble abode. They placed donations in the volunteers hands, wanting to be part of the restoration project to elevate the Little Chapel to new heights.Despite there being no fee to view donations to continue the repairs were gratefully received.

Kissing felt magical in the Little Chapel, arriving when there was noone else there, so they could enjoy the quiet solitude of the morning. The weather was pleasant, a small breeze rippling through the trees, the leaves rustling gently. They took their time to explore, stolen kisses in between rooms, the chapel larger than the outside suggested, a treasure trove of delight. Below the tiny nave and altar was another grotto and passageway, a surprise find. Covered in shards of china, the pieces shimmered, commemorative pieces from coronations a quirky find.

Relive Your Medieval Fantasy At Castle Cornet

Ana was surprised at how much history there was in such a small town, and Castle Cornet was no exception. An 800 year old castle that was steeped in medieval history, its panormaic views over the East Coast were absolutely breathtaking. With four museums on miltary history, the RAF, the history of the castle and a new maritime museum that was due to be unveiled in late 2021, A & D were spoilt for choice. From  the English civil war, to the German occuptation of Castle Cornet and islands during the second world war, they spent hours retracing steps back in time.

Located in St Peter’s Port, the daily gun firing of a 32 pound cannon by a gunner in traditional 19th century uniform was the highlight of their visit. As the triumphant music started to play, the Castle’s gunners marched out, the sounds of shots echoing around the town, in a synchronized dance. What had started as a 19th century tradition, had continued throughout the years, also used on ceremonial occasions, including to mark the beginning and the end of the 2-minute silence on Armstice day. Taking stock, their glance came across large cannons.

The cannons were found on the Saluting Battery overlooking St. Peter Port Harbour. While not originals, the 7 replica cast-iron Sakers were reproductions of an original dated 1601 which was held at the Tower of London. Ana was delighted to learn that the guns fired salutes on special occasions, including the Queen’s Birthday each year. It wasn’t just atillery that allowed A & D to relive their medieval fantasy.

Four historic gardens designed with joy, following the layout of the Plan of Castle Cornet by Bastide that dated back to 1734. Located in the Martime Musuem, the Governors Garden was up first, planted in a formal 18th century style. Designed to resemble a tapestry from above, the plants were clipped into shape, a breathtaking reminder of horiculture and military prowess in one venue. The Sutler’s Garden was another stand out, providing the soldiers that were billeted in the castle with nourishing meals.

Planted in two parts, the 16th century herb and vegetable garden, also had an adjacent pleasure garden, where the men could relax on a summer’s day. There were two more gardens left to explore at Castle Cornet, what would they be? Lambert’s Garden was next, romantic things to do in Guernsey for couples who were obsessed with history. After all General Sir John Lambert was held prisoner in Castle Cornet for ten years following the fall of Oliver Cromwell and the return of the monarchy after the English Civil War. A noteable gardner, Lambert cultivated medicinal and cooking herbs during his exile in Guernsey. The last garden, The Master Gunner’s Garden was ready for inspection.

A 19th century domestic garden, ‘Gunner’s Garden’ was used for growing vegetables, fruits and herbs, with a possible small caged area for keeping small livestock like rabbits and chickens. Situated by the West Wall, it would have been a challenge to grow much successfully in this garden, but nevertheless it was an important piece of history. They whittled away hours in this ancient castle, Castle Cornet showing them a snapshot into miltary history, and how the castle had developed since. Never a fan of war, but always enthralled with history, A was transfixed.

Go Back In Time At Candie Gardens

Green spaces played a special part in A & D’s relationship, a reminder of meeting between lockdowns in wide-stretching parks, a green oasis of pleasure. So it should come as no surprise that Candie Gardens would steal their heart, the epitome of romantic things to do in Guernsey that would blow their mind. Candie Gardens took their breath away, an award-winning Victorian Garden with spectacular views across St Peter Port harbour. Horticultural divinity personified, just 10 minutes in the gardens soothed them no end. A rare 19th century public flower garden, history and modern day moulded together seamlessly, the smell of history perfuming the day sky.

A and D walked timidly into the gardens, intimidated by its lush green beauty. It was well manicured, home to the oldest known heated glass-houses in the British Isles, dating back to the late eighteenth century. She eyed the stunning warm climate plants with an eager gaze, contrasted against run of the mill trees that were swaying in the breeze. The gardens had beautiful flowers, lawns and fish ponds that made the couple feel like they had discovered a pleasure garden. It seemed to have healing properties, coaxing them both into a melodic waking slumber.

Little did they know that Déjà vu was right around the corner, an impressive statue of Victor Hugo, presented on 7th July 1914. It reminded them of a trip to Hautville House where he lived, the famous author and activist memorialized in history. The French Government was delighted at the generosity shown to Hugo during his exile on the island, subsquently presenting them with a statue made in love. It wasn’t the only statue worthy of note, for Queen Victoria in Imperial regalia stood at the top of Candie Gardens, complete with orb and sceptre.

Unveiled on March 1st, 1900 to mark her Diamond Jubilee, the bronze statue was created by the sculptor C.B. Bircg, A.R.A, a replica of those erected at Aberdeen and on the Thames Embankment. But it was the Priaulx Library that drew Ana in, growing up on a diet of literature, fantasy and countless hours reading. With books, maps and documents mostly relating to local history, the library painted a picture of Guernsey as it was back in the day, drawing them into the magical world of society, politics, history, war and culture. A’s thirst for history was quenched, but there was also a musuem, art gallery and cafe housed in a Victorian bandstand for them to explore at a later date.

Get A Taste Of Guernsey At Rocquette Cider

If there was one thing that D had on his wishlist for romantic things to do in Guernsey, it was a cider tasting tour at Rocquette Cider. Cider was his favourite, crisp apples imprinted on his tongue, a refreshing beverage on a hot summer’s day. It reminded him of childhood’s spent apple picking in tranquil orchards, the heat tinging his skin salmon pink. In all of Guernsey, there was no better cider than Rocquette cider he declared, home grown cider that tickled his fancy. Being a fan of stronger ciders, it was the Traditional Rocquette Cider that appealed most.

At 6%, the ‘Traditional Rocquette was long on taste, specially fermented using age-old techniques to guarantee an extra clear dry taste. The ‘Salty Dog’ was another cider that packed the strength that D desired, a strong cloudy medium cider that was full bodied and packed with character. A on the other hand preferred a lighter cider, the Fauxquets Valley Cider a preferred favourite. Grown in the Fauxquets Valley and pressed from tree-ripened apples at their ripe, juicy best, the cider was light, swathing her in a cloud of warmth. The cider was even the Bronze medal winner at the 2016 International Cider Challenge!

Roquette Cider wasn’t just a cider producer, but also a tour operator, letting tourists and locals into its apple based fantasy in a stunning location. As the sun deepened into a sunset finish, A & D walked with their tour guide for a 35 minute wander, marvelling at their surroundings with undisguised glee. The weather was warm thankfully, and made the walk that much more pleasant, as they made their way to a glorious tasting session. 9 ciders and fruit liquers would be sampled, teasing their senses, busicuits and local cheeses from the States Dairy and Torteval cheeses served with 2 homemade apple chutney’s, wholesome delight.

A could not believe how they had found the perfect ending to finish their romantic break in Guernsey, cheese, cider and beautiful surroundings in the most idyllic of islands. Their tour guide *Craig* was the most exceptional of hosts, a witty Scotsman who made cider fun. With his help they were entranced by the cider making process, enlightened by how pressing and fermentation led to the delicious ciders that they got to sample, effortlessly made. The cheeses made their night too, devilishly creamy, enveloping their mouths in a riot of taste.

Their staycation in Guernsey had come to an end, and they smiled fondly at what they had done. Cultural gardens begging to be explored, historical castles demanding to be appreciated. Ciders and cheeses in perfect harmony, the scent of salt sea air at beaches, while children squealed delighted at water sports. An adventure packed holiday that left them wanting more, they knew the time would come for them to find romantic things to do in Guernsey once more. But for now they travelled home, drifting into a dream where Guernsey had captured their hearts, fair and square.

What Romantic Things To Do In Guernsey Would You Like To Try?

*Disclaimer

Please note this is a collaborative post but all thoughts are my own and are not affected by monetary compensation. Whether you are looking for romantic things to do in Guernsey for couples, for first dates, as a honeymoon staycation or as wedding destination, this dating guide will give you inspiration on the top couples activities. Looking for springtime dating ideas for couples in Guernsey? I have got you covered. Want to visit Guernsey in the summer? No problem!

* UK visitors will be able to come back to The Islands of Guernsey-Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm- from 1st July, with no testing or self-isolation requirements on arrival.This includes UK visitors who have not had a COVID-19 vaccine.

 

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