Castle Cornet on Castle Rock, in St Peter Port. Picture: Chris George Photography

by Lynn Cox

There can’t be many places in the British Isles as beautiful and welcoming as Guernsey.

The Channel Island, less than an hour away by plane, is a haven for anyone who loves history, walking, sight-seeing – and wonderfully fresh seafood.

I was lucky enough to visit when the flora and fauna of the island was just blossoming and a Spring Walking Week festival was being staged.

It is held in May, just after the islanders celebrate Liberation Day, and I found it both fascinating and heartbreaking to learn more about the occupation of the island by German forces for five years during the Second World War.

There are reminders of that time dotted around the island, including German war fortifications and bunkers and a massive underground hospital, now a museum, which was built out of solid rock by slave workers between 1940 and 1945.

I’d say the best thing to do when you get there is just explore, as there are so many interesting places and wonderful spots to discover like the Victorian gardens at Candie in St Peter Port, where the Guernsey Museum can be found.

Also in the port is Victor Hugo’s home, with guided tours available.

Apparently French novelist Hugo, author of Les Miserables, was captivated by the island’s scenery and it’s not hard to see why.

Flowers adorn Guernsey wherever you go and the best way to see them is by walking along the many wonderful coastal paths.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just like a gentle stroll, the walking festival caters for all abilities and is a great way to see the town And after your exertions, why not enjoy dinner at the Pier 17 Restaurant on Albert Pier.

It has a fine varied seafood menu and if you can get a table overlooking the quayside, you will be able to watch the fisherman bring in their daily catch.

Other delights during my time in Guernsey included a visit to Castle Cornet, an ancient fortification set on Cornet Rock which guards the harbour and is also home to museums and wonderful gardens.

Kayaking at Petit Bot Bay, Guernsey

And on Saturdays it is worth popping along to Saumarez Manor, the island’s only stately home. A farmers’ market is held there offering delicious Guernsey butter as well as many other homemade delights.

There are sandy bays dotted all around the island so my advice would be to hire a car for a couple of days and go and see them. There is a great bus service if you don’t want to drive.

And for a luxurious place to stay look no further than the four-star St Pierre Park Hotel, a fabulous, welcoming place with its own stunning garden.

Guernsey is an ideal destination, not only for families but also for couples. You are guaranteed to get caught up in the romance of the place.

Lynn Cox travelled courtesy of Visit Guernsey

For more information on Guernsey see www.VisitGuernsey.com or call the Guernsey Information Centre on 01481 723552.

Aurigny Air Services (01481 822886, www.aurigny.com) flies to Guernsey several times a day from Gatwick, with one-way prices from as little as £41 plus taxes. Aurigny also offers flights from Bristol, East Midlands, Stansted and Manchester.

Bed and breakfast accommodation at the 4-star St Pierre Park Hotel (01481 728282, www.stpierrepark.co.uk) starts at £57 per person, per night.