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A week to kill on Guernsey
I thought i might try another trip report.
MrsFr attends a week-long course every year on Guernsey and while she's doing her thing, i'm at liberty to have a little look around. Again. Having been here a number of times already and walked around the island, seen almost all the attractions both major and minor, finding something new to look at is going to be a bit of a task - hence the title. For those that don't know, Guernsey is one of the Channel Islands but just off the coast of France. Very approximately it's roughly shaped like a right angled triangle about 9miles (14km) down the hypotenuse and 5miles (8km) across the thickest bit. While they use English and they drive on the left like the UK, they have their own government and currency (Guernsey pounds, 1:1 with UKP) - a sworn allegiance since the time of King John in the early 1200s, i believe. So kind of part of the UK. But not. I don't claim to try to understand it or be any kind of expert, just i've been here a few times and you pick stuff up. I'm sure there's a lot of history here, going back to Dolmen from ancient civilizations right up to comparatively recent modern history. What with the relationship with and against france over the years, the fact that the channel islands were the only British lands occupied by the Nazis during WW2 figures large - the 80th anniversary celebrations for their liberation were just a few weeks ago. With that all said... |
Coming from France, the best way to get to Guernsey is by boat, and specifically the French port of Saint-Malo requiring a night stop so I booked a night in the Mercure Hotel Balmoral, somewhere we have stayed before for a single night.
We arrived at the underground car park entrance as i have done before after several hours driving through rush hour traffic. It's quite difficult to find being at the back side of the property from the entrance; there's a late afternoon thunderstorm with heavy rain ongoing. Pressing the well hidden intercom button to request the car park entrance to be opened the receptionist refuses to let me in as they need to know my room number. Because of the poor audio quality and volume it takes several attempts to hear and understand fully; if i don't have a room number i need to go to reception to checkin first, before they open the gate. Even though reception is on the other side of the building and all the while with the rain coming in through my car window - i'm getting soaked. I abandon the car there by the intercom, getting even wetter to checking at the front of the hotel asking that she lets me into the parking and then return back to the car. Pressing the intercom button again i speak to the same receptionist that checked me in 90 seconds ago who then proceeds to ask me whether i really want to pay the 15euro parking fee. And am i really sure. And it's 15euros, and it will be added to the bill. All very frustrating and un-necessary. Its one thing to have a rule to get a job done, but this certainly isn't it. The car park has maybe 12 spaces, and they're all very tight for most modern cars. It does say parking under reservation but we never have. Straight up to our room, upgraded to a privilege room due to my ALL status which means bath robes, a coffee machine and a few free soft drinks in the minibar. The bed is at one end, a desk and storage area at the other, and a bathroom with a walk-in shower. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e5cfba8c63.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7723448f0b.jpg The room and amenties are adequate for a night stop, but its already a bit stuffy and warm; the aircon is set to 16C and is blowing out warm air. The outside temperature is 25C and still the thunder is trying its best to entertain us. And failing We do have a balcony but opening the door to get some kind of air circulation only permits the rain to enter. We waited a few hours for the rain to stop but showed no side of abating so our planned trip into the old town for dinner is aborted. The hotel has no restaurant (i knew in advance) and MrsFr didn't fancy venturing out in the wet so i looked for something to bring back to the hotel. Just around the corner was "Bar a Naan" which looked like just what we needed. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...086052f9b8.jpg So, a lamb massala and chicken massala and couple of naans duly ordered i went back to the bar to eat. MrsFr had already ordered the drinks. My welcome drink voucher was only valid for a single 25cl beer and her favourite G+T... Apparently all the gin was finished this morning - well, that was convenient - they only had 1 bottle of gin? (many other questions spring to mind). ALL properties "generosity" with their welcome drinks, especially in France, is already well discussed elsewhere on FT; Is MrsFr not welcome enough to get a drink? Are they really that tight for single beer? If it wasn't for the rain we wouldn't have bothered even with mine. Anyway... https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c0522919f9.jpg The food was ok. Not bad per se, just not very flavoursome. I was asked when ordering, once they had heard my english accent, how spicy i wanted it. "French" spice or more, i asked for more. Maybe they just forgot. It filled a hole. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fa06d99700.jpg On the way back from Bar a Naan, i had noticed a homeless sleeper in an alleyway just beside the hotel and after a few mins went back to offer some Naans we had ordered but were not going to eat. A little disturbed though to find they seemed to be a casually dressed lady and raised a few alarm bells. Completely unsure of the situation but also aware of how it could go quite badly quite quickly and on discussing with MrsFr we decided to go back together to check on her welfare. On hearing our discussion another lady in reception interrupted us to say in fact she had already called the Police Municipal, the Pompiers and discussed it with the hotel staff. The police duly arrived and helped her away in a very poor state; it may have been alcohol related. This is all a long way around to say that we then spent 3+ hours talking with the lady we met in the hotel. Turns out she is a retired German and English teacher and lives in an apartment block next to the hotel. Spent a nice few hours discussing all sorts of subjects. We really enjoy these kind of ad-hoc personal experiences. As mentioned by another Trip Reporter recently, it makes the trip to engage with others. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f531a2b7c2.jpg The bar and reception area Time for bed as we had an early start, it's much later than we planned. |
Apparently when i made the reservation i hadn't requested breakfast, so we're under no obligation to have breakfast there. After a brief stroll around town looking for somewhere suitable, everything was closed - maybe because it was before 9am, whatever. Decision made though and back to the hotel.
Their buffet and english breakfast menu is i think around £14, quite reasonable. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...33666848ea.jpg For me, another full english - the first of many. As they're full today they tell us it's going to take a little time, so toast and more importantly a cappuccino to start. Made by a person and espresso machine, not an all in one coffee-drink maker that seems so prevalent in hotels these days. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8ed0fd2d45.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...10c3185438.jpg After a relaxed breakfast, return to the room and have a little baggage sort and reorganisation. With now a good collection of bags and paraphenalia i make a prelininary trip to the car. The hotel has no parking of its own, instead we have to park in the north quay car park by the ferry and White rock cafe. Probably a good few hundred spaces there. In Guernsey all street parking is free - a parking card system is used whereby you set your time card to the time of your arrival, place it in the windscreen and all's done. So long as you don't overstay the limit of that parking space (1hr, 3hrs, 10 hrs, etc) then no problem. While i have a parking card from pervious visits, i seem to have left it at home, so the day before a trip to the tourist information office to get a new one was needed. Previously it was free. This time, for tourists at least it's £6.50. Nothing to do but pay up and curse myself for the omission https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...dc1d233258.jpg Car loaded and back to the hotel to checkout. We'll stay here again in a few days so we ask if it's possible to have a room with air con; Even though my BW status had lapsed, as frequent off-island visitors they had already upgraded us to a king room, but without aircon. We've now been put down to a normal room, this time with aircon. We'll see. With our next obligation at 2pm, we still have a few hours to meander through the streets. despite being mid-June the air is still cool in the late morning in the shade of the taller buildings in the narrow streets, but quite refreshing. Walking along the seafront and in the sun we start to warm up. And get a small thirst so look for a suitable cafe but nothing appeals so head back to the car and make a gentle move onwards. There's a small Waitrose supermarket on the way out of town so we stop for a few supplies. Being a Sunday we find no cafes open on the way up to our next stop, so decide to go straight to the hotel in the chance that we can checkin early. For the next week, our home is the Peninsular Hotel on the northern coast. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e4e1d57ae3.jpg We get there at 1pm and the staff recognise us instantly and give us a warm welcome; in my book a good thing on 2 counts. Firstly that they do know us - a little; it's no "Good evening Mr Bond, would you like your normal suite?", but it helps build a relationship to help things move more easily during the stay. Secondly, i do think continuity of staff at places like this go a long way to give character and improve service; it indicates the staff are happy to continue working there and there's not a high turnover. Although, i'm told off-islanders work permits are not so simple so job changes are perhaps different here. Our room isnt quite ready, so we... rehydrate at the bar and site outside. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4c96025eb3.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8bc06b7ccb.jpg 15 mins later they bring our key and we go up. This year we have a king bed, but the room is a little sparse furniture wise. Previously an islander told me that back in the '80s when this hotel opened, it opened as a Mercure. Looking at the separate toilet, layout of the bathroom and the room entrance and "wardrobe" area, the concrete wall covering and even the style of the door fittings, i can very much believe it. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fd6c3daea2.jpg Being on the 1st floor we normally have a great view of the bay. This time we get this... https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8d58117fb6.jpg I think one of the worst views possible on the whole property. The rest of MrsFr's group is arriving shortly by plane and have a bus booked; we'll meet them at the Guernsey Pearl Centre on the west coast, right opposite Fort Grey. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...acef33e4ba.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fd5c68ddfc.jpg Fort Grey is a Martello tower designed by a family member of the Earl who did stuff with Tea. It's now a naval museum and is referred to by locals as the "cup and saucer". There's also a himalyan restauran there, and the group has meals pre-booked. Sorry, no pics for this bit as i forgot. Back to the hotel afterwards, beating the bus. it didn't make a lot of difference to us as we had checked in already, but the 20+ queue did take a little settling in. An evening in the bar beckoned but ended early as many were tired. Best rest up for the week, then... Hopefully more pics from now on. |
First day here proper and time to go off-island. Having seen most of the island already i'm heading to the even smaller island of Herm, about 3miles across the water from St Peter port. The trident tours ferry ticket office is on the corner of the north quay, and i get a return ticket for the day. £18 for the 10.30 crossing out and any return boat i want.
The ferry does nothing but shuttle back and forth from Herm, and i reckon it carries about 100 people. it docks right on queue. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5af13b055b.jpg St Peter port disappears again as we set off https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3e9e59e706.jpg I've done the north of Herm previously so today it's the southern bit by a coastal walk which will bring be back to the harbour for the return later in the day. As the tide is quite high we dock high on the jetty but too many people to get a clear pic. Starting the southern loop of Herm, pass probably the worlds cutest prison https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c10c075161.jpg starting the climb. Steps. Steps are not my favourite but no choice at this point https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9696b9ad3a.jpg After going up through the bushes the view opens out with St Peter Port clearly in sight just a few miles away. The cruise liner arrived earlier this morning and its passengers are now exploring the town, thankfully nowhere near me. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3d9d5f5232.jpg Sheer drop, huh? Ok, let's see... https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7288ab0cba.jpg er, yup, looks about right. no fake warnings here. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ec9a072ea5.jpg reached the southern tip of Herm already barely 20 mins in, not sure i can realistically go much further south. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...985aa94455.jpg Champagne rock is apparently a table like rock where people celebrate stuff with champagne. With no notice the best i can do is a water bottle. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a624eb9c13.jpg carrying on round, there's a sea cave. Beautiful clear blue water here and all around all the islands https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f6c7c0e3d2.jpg more very pretty coastline https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...dc8a86e575.jpg getting a bit thirsty now and up ahead i see the cafe at Belvoir beach, so get ready for a quick pit stop. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...696d34cd4a.jpg I've reached the point for my return to the harbour and it's barely been an hour, i thought it would take much longer so as the Belvoir cafe is closed today, i decide to carry on and do the more of the coastline. what counts as a major road junction on Herm. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8e01e4969e.jpg A few minutes around the corner is shell beach and its cafe; signs of life suggest it's open. The sight of that clear blue sea makes it quite joyful, a real pleasure to see. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c0aaf59482.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3ff6724090.jpg whether correct or not i detect an absence of sugar. With it still being before midday, a slice of white chocolate and Mango cake and a soft drink will have to make do. I thought a little pricey - £7.50, but considering the transport needed to get it all there, understandable. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...96499e2119.jpg shoes off and time for a walk on the beach. Shell beach is supposed to be coarsely crushed shell, but i find it quite nice to walk on, quite soft and warm but not hot. certainly nicer than other "sand" beaches i've walked on. I go for a paddle as i walk along the sealine, but wow, that water's cold. I have expect to see icebergs passing by, but just that clear blue sea. A shame; it looks tropical but it absolutely is not. It is the Atlantic, after all. I carry on walking along the beach, but it's quite difficult. Soft sand is hard to walk in as we all know and the beach shelves sufficiently that i feel like i'll be toppling over. I tried high in the soft stuff and low on the wet stuff, both equally tricky. I stop complaining to myself and just walk. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...994b5b4413.jpg Eventually i run out of Herm to walk on, so north to south in just over an hour at a leisurely pace. I forget how small Herm really is https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e760ff5c07.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a47a435507.jpg Rounding the corner and on the main Island the port of St Samson comes into view; there's not much of Herm to do now. Along the "top" there's a bit of a rock formation blocking the beach which i don't fancy scrambling over so go inland a little and come across the "Pierre aux Rats". Apparently it's a marker point for local fishermen. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...173aaaec85.jpg Just behind it there's a scattering of stones. There is very old history on these islands going back to 4000BC (yes, before the pyramids). Can't help but think this looks like a stone circle that's taken a turn for the worse. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2dd46c6b75.jpg Getting close to the harbour and it's approaching lunchtime. Never though i'd get this far or so quickly. On the beach there are some birds. Not on any part of the beach, just here. Must just be the place to be... https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...92e3793f23.jpg On the flightpath for the approach into GCI, Guernsey International Airport. International i think as i do believe they have a weekly flight to Norway as well as frequent flights to the UK. Either way, this doesn't look big enough for any kind of scheduled service here. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...78ada32505.jpg Passing the Herm Cemetery. Apparently all others are carried out on Guernsey or Jersey; these 2 died of a disease that i forget and their bodies were refused entry into either so buried here. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6b13cbdd16.jpg Time for lunch and as i return back to the harbour area i pass the mermaid pub which seems as good as place as any. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b784b325a9.jpg A little rehydration while i wait for lunch to arrive https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...80eb8078c5.jpg Today a British staple, fish and chips. I don't get to chose fish very often as MrsFr is quite allergic, so while she's not here... https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4a31a90685.jpg The fish is a little soggy underneath although otherwise cooked well and chips a little dry, but not bad and quite enjoyable. Passing the harbour again, the high tidal range in these islands is quite clear. in just a couple of hours it looks like its dropped by at least 4m and it's still going out. I've heard the tidal range here is one of the highest in the world at around 10m. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a4caaf9310.jpg I had originally intended to return on the 1535 boat, but that's hours away and i'm pretty much done. It's approaching 2pm so with an earlier boat at 1435 i decide to walk to the chapel in the middle of Herm as it seems not far away. What i hadn't banked on was the steepish climb up from the harbour having just eaten https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c88d0d0fd3.jpg Inside St Tuguals chapel its unsurprisingly small, but has a nice garden and cute bell tower. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9e9b6fad0b.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...58fc8d09c5.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2740f4f4d2.jpg returning down to the harbour, the main crossing point https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d4831ea979.jpg Due to the low tide, the return ferry doesn't go from the harbour but the rosaire steps, a short walk away https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9d5291d6a5.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b1967de62c.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4cf5fcbcd5.jpg salt crystals have formed on the barrier from the last high tide, i reckon currently about 8m from the current sea level. Quite incredible to just watch the tide come in over something man made. the downstairs inner cabin and outside deck of the ferry. I've heard that even with a swell of just 1.5m, this is a very tough ride. With wind and rain the inner cabin becomes standing room only and a quite un-enjoyable experience for those... without a strong constitution :) https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b328cf46c8.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...124409b1fb.jpg Leaving Herm by the Rosaire steps https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...287568696e.jpg rounding one of the even small islands of Guernsey called Jethou https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...78595e3c33.jpg St Peter Port comes back into view https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...054eac8611.jpg Despite being a shorter day than planned, it's taken a bit out of me so i slink back to the hotel for a shower and then retire to the bar for the evening to start this TR while MrsFr has an evening session on her course. |
Great start! Can you comment on what time of year the trip was? The lack of open cafes made me wonder if it was just bad luck or if it was just off season.
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Aircraft is a Douglas C47; not a regular scheduled visitor. There was one visiting for Liberation Day (8th May), ‘Ready for Duty' (R4D), operated by the Dallas-based Commemorative Air Force; similar colour scheme to that in your photo.
Guernsey qualifies as International as Aurigny fly to Dublin 😎 |
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Thank you MalFr for a very interesting TR. I'd forgotten what a lovely part of the world the ChanneI lsles are and makes me want to go back. Roll on the big Lottery win and the subsequent life of travelling to interesting places.
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Is it just me or is there a post or two missing?
For me it looks like you are in a hotel in Saint-Malo and then the next post you are already in Guernsey. |
Originally Posted by xooz
(Post 37160093)
Great start! Can you comment on what time of year the trip was? The lack of open cafes made me wonder if it was just bad luck or if it was just off season.
Apologies that i’m a bit behind in writing it all up… |
Originally Posted by Nimrod1965
(Post 37160139)
Aircraft is a Douglas C47; not a regular scheduled visitor. There was one visiting for Liberation Day (8th May), ‘Ready for Duty' (R4D), operated by the Dallas-based Commemorative Air Force; similar colour scheme to that in your photo.
Guernsey qualifies as International as Aurigny fly to Dublin 😎 |
Originally Posted by offerendum
(Post 37160543)
See it positive. If there are people on the roof you know first.
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Originally Posted by bigbadjoe
(Post 37162974)
Thank you MalFr for a very interesting TR. I'd forgotten what a lovely part of the world the ChanneI lsles are and makes me want to go back. Roll on the big Lottery win and the subsequent life of travelling to interesting places.
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Originally Posted by Fabo.sk
(Post 37163382)
Is it just me or is there a post or two missing?
For me it looks like you are in a hotel in Saint-Malo and then the next post you are already in Guernsey. i’ll put it up again as soon as i can, as a stop gap until i can write the next one. |
Well done. Great effort. Although those are the saddest looking fish and chips I have seen in a while :)
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Originally Posted by eightblack
(Post 37163631)
Well done. Great effort. Although those are the saddest looking fish and chips I have seen in a while :)
i have had much much worse… :cool: |
Excellent TR, well done!
A decade ago, an av-geek trip (to catch the BN-2A MK.III) only allowed me to spend one night in Guernsey. Which was certainly not enough and your report proves that again! So according to you, which island is the nicest? Thanks a lot for sharing and looking forward to more :). |
Originally Posted by flying_blue_white_red
(Post 37166566)
Excellent TR, well done!
A decade ago, an av-geek trip (to catch the BN-2A MK.III) only allowed me to spend one night in Guernsey. Which was certainly not enough and your report proves that again! So according to you, which island is the nicest? Thanks a lot for sharing and looking forward to more :). |
Apologies for missing this part, I guess it should be read as message #2.5 in this thread...
A 4.30 start means there a small queue for our small bathroom. The storms have circled around overnight and it's still raining and the town starts to wake. Still far to early for hotel at the breakfast be be open; no great loss from what i remember. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bc691d3d44.jpg The Port de Naye is just a few km away and we arrive at the checkin just before 6am; a few vehicles there already, checkin starts at 6.10. Although all seem to be in the queue for the following stopover, Poole, in the UK. As no-one moved when checkin opened, drove past them into the Guernsey line and into first position for loading. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...77c281c52f.jpg Our vessel awaits https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c49c074ec5.jpg leaving Saint-Malo https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...24b5f10b9c.jpg A light snack to keep the wolf from the door - been up a few hours and getting a bit pekish. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b41c644dd8.jpg As we leave the port the horn is sounded several times, a smaller sail boat is in our intended path. A crowd gathers to watch nothing happening. There's not much else to do i guess... https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bd3244667a.jpg Plenty of knee room in these seats https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b43a457027.jpg Passing Jersey. The sea is calm and it's a very smooth crossing. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bbdb50548e.jpg Guernsey and more specifically the harbour at St Peter Port comes into view. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d8fd0c36bf.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6f2743e493.jpg The advantage of loading first is.... well, nothing today. We're pretty much the last off and at the back of the queue for immigration and customs. After all the trips here with Condor, we've never worked out their loading plan, each time it seems different no matter when we load. No issue today, we have plenty of time. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...afacbfad26.jpg Being just after 9am (UK time), it's time for breakfast. 400m after customs and we pull up outside the White Rock Cafe on the quay - not even made it to proper land yet. 2 full english, 2 mugs of Tea; hot water from an urn, milk and tea bag in from the beginning, proper caff style :) https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d5100fb601.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...781c3cd9c2.jpg We've now the whole day to fill. Next appointment is a family dinner this evening, with the car parked in the long term car park on the quay, MrsFr engages in a little... well quite a lot... of retail therapy. We can't check in to our hotel until 1pm, so we stop at Cafe Emilia nearby for a small snack - scones and Guernsey cream. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...02e54bcece.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9b0ff3245f.jpg For 1 night we're staying in the Moores Hotel kind of in the Center of St Peter Port. It's a Best Western property, and we find rooms are of variable quality. Some are really nice and well updated, some... less so. Nice enough though to be able to stay for several nights or ven longer if required. We have a room in the annex, across the terrace, https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d1ec0bd73c.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...93a12c9409.jpg A nice big room, with a double bed and an extra single and space enough for general travel stuff. Being next to the terrace it's quite noisy. And, there's no air con, just new windows that crack open 10cm or so. And south facing in the full sun. Going to see how that goes then... Does have a Kettle and minibar, with fresh milk available on request. Overall it borders on the less so end of the scale, but also adequate for a night. In the past we've several nice rooms here, maybe they prioritise longer stays in that case? Out for an afternoon stroll up the main shopping street in St Peter Port, The Pollet. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e5c555537b.jpg Past the old tourist information office and there are some old tractor seats arranged "artistically". https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e873bb8600.jpg An old hand water pump by the church. There used to be another very near the hotel, but we already saw it had been removed https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a8bbe2c1b1.jpg A smaller than expected party for dinner at China Red, just to the north of the centre. We've eaten here many times and is really is all very good. All freshly prepared and cooked. For us a really good menu and while the usual suspects are probably there somewhere, there's plenty of more unusual items to order. Just a shame i didn;t remember the menu... https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bf0e7be222.jpg To start crispy 1/2 duck and pancakes. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ba6cde0b40.jpg Then a selection of dishes afterwards. The beef brisket was especially nice as was the kung po chicken. More came after but i was too busy with nose in trough to get pictures. Something with scallops, another made spicy to order, and a pork thing. Highly descriptive dishes, of course :D https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d487b6c4ff.jpg After a long day we returned to the hotel. I did try the bar which is part of the JB Parkers restaurant downstair and they seemed only really to offer ciders, lagers, IPA or Guinness, none of which i fancied at that time so we headed up to the room. Noise from the terrace had died down and the evening damp air had arrived, we opened all the windows as much as possible to try to get some cooler air inside. It was a little sticky, and amazingly we survived until morning! :cool: |
Only a short time to fill this morning; i start with a recce for some other points later this week which may or may not work out. I've also been given an executive order by MrsFr that there is a group trip this afternoon and my presence is expected so i have to plan around that.
I decide to head to the west coast, to Vazon bay. There are reminders everywhere of the Nazi occupation all along the coast as Hitler instructed the channel islands were to be part of his Atlantic wall. Therefore the coastline is peppered with such fortifications. Vazon bay is a wide sandy beach and until today i didn't realise it was actually 2 bays in 1. The southern 30% is Richmond, the other 70 is Vazon itself. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c0dd541f29.jpg There's a gentle breeze which is quite nice; it's dropped over the last few days and you can feel it's starting to get warm - for guernsey, at least. I start at the southern end of Richmond bay and start walking towards Vazon; for mid weekday morning few people are here. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a0ee443711.jpg In the distance you can see Fort Hommet. Just nestled in the dunes, a concrete gun emplacement. Just like any other beach across the world... https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...eb03f1f3ed.jpg For islanders i think it's just taken for granted as to what you find around. For visitors though i think it's quite a stark reminder of comparatively recent past. There's a kiosk here, but closed today it seems. I wasn't buying anyway. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a18cb85276.jpg I find it quite interesting to see how many of these things were constructed. You can still see the imprints of the individual planks of shuttering and a little of the concrete spillage from when it was poured. Wonder how long it will last. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9df1cf59ca.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6b6f94ba77.jpg I then go on further around into Vazon bay itself. it's well before midday so in need of a little refreshment i stop at Vistas, a cafe at the northern end of Vazon. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...24295ba9b2.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bc9c191066.jpg With fort Hommet to the left and a heavy machine gun emplacement to the right. Spot the heavy gun emplacement...? https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8cd3956e69.jpg Some are brave enough to venture into the artic-like waters. Not me... https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...af37f55ae6.jpg Walking along the sea wall, there are casements every few 10s of meters along the sea wall. Some of the walls are more than a metre thick. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8a62745a66.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...60f0668229.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ee719ba05c.jpg Fortifications from a different era as mixed in with the WW2 locations is another Martello tower from the 18th Century. As it seems with most other installations i've seen, the Germans "improved" them with lots of concrete. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...469b80fc26.jpg The entrance to the hidden heavy gun emplacement. This was apparently home to a 22cm gun with a 20km range. On certain days each month an island charity opens them for viewing, sadly not while i was there this time. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a441122f94.jpg Fort Hommet is on the peninisula and was an older 18th century fortification. It's not just the concrete you can see above ground but all the bunkers, tunnel and other areas underground that we can't see. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...29b5612e39.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...690a1b7e57.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...020a34d039.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c754bba39b.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...93ed5f539b.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e4cc49319e.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...68ec7b0ffa.jpg Still love the blue waters, this time from fort Hommet. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5e5d51c442.jpg yes, that is my finger :) 18th century gun fortifications and crenelations https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f527e4f67d.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e0aa676558.jpg one of the casements is starting to deteriorate, quite unusual from what i've seen. Wonder if it was bad mix or bad poor or just weathering? https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...69f9623eb0.jpg It's time for lunch; i had a look at the Vistas menu and it just didn't appeal so i head over the road to Crabby Jacks. Upstairs to the terrace and a view over the bay. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bd403f9b8d.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...cb797cb3c7.jpg A little rehydration before ordering... https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c4e1553850.jpg On an island that takes pride in its seafood, interesting to hear that one thing Crabby Jacks doesn't serve off their menu is... Crab! It's on 2 day pre-order according to the server. Huh... :) Not wanting a big meal i order the chicken and chorizo melted cheese sandwich which comes is bigger than i expected. The bread has absorbed a lot of fat from the cheese and the grease-proof paper covering on the plate had started to absorb the rest and had shredded itself by the time i had finished. Most of the bread and fries i didn't bother eating as i was getting full.The filling though was filling and nice enough. The coleslaw was downright nasty though. We'd eaten here before last year; it's nice enough, not expensive and i think aimed at families. And open through most of the day so if you're stuck for a meal its always an option. I'd go back, so long as i wasn't expecting a gourmet banquet. it's not trying to pretend by be something it isn't, unless you're looking for crab. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...cb71f8e1a9.jpg It's starting to warm up now, well into the 20Cs and the wind has dropped; that sun is string. Back to the hotel for my assigned duties this afternoon... |
What a lovely tour around the islands. I have never been, so thank you for sharing!
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This afternoon my least favourite activity either to be part of or come across while travelling. A tourist group bus tour. Wonderful, i get to see the places i've seen many times already. I'm not alone from that point of view, some islanders on the course are joining too. On to the coach, legroom at a premium here...
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d26f9b4017.jpg They stop at some church or graveyard or other at St Sampson. I head for the harbour nearby; apparently north guernsey used to be 2 islands and were joined by a bridge here at St Sampson. Long ago the channel between the islands was walled on either side against the tide and then infilled; quite a feat over a hundred years ago. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...743b6c62d5.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ae5530cd3f.jpg strolling around i find a drinks wholesaler just a few metres around the corner; shame there's no tap room attached. Back to the bus. We now head towards the south of the island, stopping for some minutes at the quai outside the White Rock cafe, to explain the tomato truck bombing by the Nazis just a few days before occupation but after the islands had been demilitarized in 1940. I think his humour is starting to grate a few people already. On the way again, and a few minutes later se stop again, further along the seafront, this time for his version of the history of Castel Cornet. Still not winning the crowd across. Finally we end up at the far south eastern corner of Guernsey, at Jerbourg. It's a headland with a great view, there's a kiosk and a Hotel, more of which later i hope. It's a great clear afternoon and there are great views all around: back towards ST Peter port, Herm, Sark, and in the distance Jersey abut 20miles away. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...58656042b8.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...92c4ec5bbf.jpg Unsurprisingly this is another german bunker, but not that surprising considering the vantage point https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...40192e1139.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c883650fa5.jpg After just enough time for an ice cream and we continue on to the Little Chapel. This was built at the beginning of the 20th century by a priest and is covered in little pieces of donated porcelain, glass and china, and it quite literally is tiny; there is a bit of history behind it, but i'll leave that to the reader to google if interested. Cutesey i guess, but not really my thing. Though there are always people here but never crowded. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f34cd3812d.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3705836d39.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e6bee76500.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...875986b7ab.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8ca3a99ead.jpg Back on the bus, and off to the next location - passing GCI. Not the biggest airport in the world, but i'm sure there are smaller. This is about as close as i've ever been. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6abe3d930a.jpg Our next location is... a stop at the side of the road to look at some Goats. These are Guernsey Golden goats and nearly went extinct during the war but we saved and hidden by a lady in the north of the island. or something. Not sure why it was necessary to stop here but the driver thought it worthy of a 10 minute stop. :confused: https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...49e21015cd.jpg Onwards we pass a church with an interesting spire https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d5586fb8a9.jpg Finally we arrived at our final destination, Torteval on the South West corner, where there are some observation towers and some ditches. Now running 30 minutes behind schedule the organiser suggested that we turn around about make our way back to the hotel. No sooner had we arrived we left and back to the hotel. No time for pictures, but it's likely you'll not have to wait much further into the week to see some... Torteval is up high on a headland with great view so as we descend and the hedges clear you can see Lihou Island, just off the coast. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...feecd9a219.jpg Also hopefully more of this later in the week. The journey back to the hotel for a large vehicle such as a coach is over 30mins even though it's barely 15kms, but a car wouldn't be much quicker. I head towards the bar on arrival as there is a thirst that needs quenching, but i receive another executive order that i am requested to join the course as an external disrupter (?) so we will need to eat first. While the bar is going to have to wait food can't, and with MrsFr we share some buffalo wings and a stuffed Fallafel burger (!). Admittedly, this is part way through our "feast"; the grilled vine tomatoes, the wings and what i saw of the burger were quite pleasant and i wouldn't be unhappy with either again. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c8527a37ad.jpg One of the local breweries is the Little Big Brew Company (LBBC), and i heard that the owner has not just that but small collection of hotels and restaurants; being one of his Hotels, he serves his own beer. Originally there were just 4 and given peoples names - Alan, Nigel, Betty and Alfie but the Hotel never servers all 4 at the same time and i used to prefer Alan or Betty. This time only Nigel, a Lager, which is not really my choice. They seem to have a couple of new ones, "IP Eh?" (I see what you did there, LBBC!), and Lily. I tried Lily on arrival and also wasn't for me; Looks like it's IP Eh for me all week. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...46d4ebf70b.jpg After a chat, to bed... |
The next morning and i have a little time; I'm going to Sark today and another Ferry - this time at 12:15. There was a 10:15 crossing but it was completely full when i went for tickets the day before. As the north beach long term (10hours!) car park would be full by then, i decided to take the bus; if nothing else i could stay properly hydrated :)
Leaving the hotel, the bus stop is around a 3 minute walk away. Nice view of the bay this morning. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2a1e0afd29.jpg Although there are reminders of the islands recent history everywhere; this is just across the road from the bay and the bus stop. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...56c4acb54f.jpg The bus ride into town is about 20 mins. Nice just to be able to look at stuff, rather than having to drive. On arrival on the seafront i get off early - local bus, Guernsey style https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3e2fb8d0c1.jpg I still have more than an hour to wait before to go for my ferry so i head for morning cappucino at Boosh - it's on the Pollet, just down from the Moores Hotel. It's fine - Not bad, not good, just fine. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...33efc376aa.jpg Take a gentle stroll to the quai at White Rock, on the way there see the "famous" Little train which takes tourists on a ride of 30-45 mins around some of the St Peter Port sites. Apparently it gets rammed when the cruise ships come in. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e9fd4e22f4.jpg The Herm supply ship is being loaded up; likely this is how my Fish and Chips arrived at the Mermain a few days ago. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...48fa8ffa5d.jpg The ferry arrives. It's a very short turn around: it docks long enough for the existing passengers to get off, then the new lot get on. As quickly as possible. As we are reminded by the crew. At least twice.:p https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...daa1a6fffc.jpg Leaving St Peter port. Again. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ab95bf7b94.jpg Passing the contentious shat-oh as we approach Sark, as built by one of both of the Berkley brothers, maybe. Universally loved by all Sark inhabitants - perhaps :) https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...afb0eb3ecd.jpg As we arrive in Sark, the tide is quite high so at the quai side we only have a few steps to climb. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...84d84ad89e.jpg After a crossing of about an hour, welcome to Sark! https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...90da794b3b.jpg With no cars allowed on Sark, there's an interesting quandary about how to get up the hill from the harbour to the top of, well, sark civilisation. Its a big steep hill, and some chose to walk. Though for the less foolish there is a luxury transport solution, the toastrack. Or Toastracks as i've always seen 2 of them. for £1.80 you sit on a seat in a trailer and a tractor pulls it up. Seat uncomfortable? Tough, walk :). Too much dust? Tough, walk :) You get the idea. The ride takes about 3 minutes and is a bit bumpy. No safety rails here. Nor Uber :) https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2a5a2f1ae7.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...26bfb7b1bd.jpg Our Terminus is the Bel air. A Pub and celebrated party stop, and a shop for tourist stuff. Horse and cart rides available, if you want... https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e7eae98a78.jpg Having seen Petite Sark to the south last year (that's the one you may have seen pictured elsewhere connected by a narrowish rock bridge), today i'm going around the main Grand Sark. First stop, a dragon https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0ed8ceac8b.jpg Past the post office and there's a gold Post box. As i remember from the London 2012 Olympics, Gold medal winners had their nearest post box painted gold in their honour. MrsFr tell me this is for Cark Hester, a horseman. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4eafd611e6.jpg Moving on it's only dirt tracks so it's all a bit dusty as bicycles, tractors, and quads pass. Conscious it's approaching 1.30 and i'm hungry i look for somewhere to eat. I come across the Old Hall, a pub along the way. Time to get rehydrated too. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bbdfb28ea0.jpg Continuing the fishy theme, i go for the seafood Linguine. It tastes ok, but I'm not really sure what to expect. I think it's a little salty, but whatever - it's a pub on a small island asking £16 for a plate of pasta - not a Michelin 3* restaurant https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7c3f314882.jpg With no clear objective i leave and just walk and follow the occasional signpost. I pass the cricket ground - getting visitors here may not be convenient https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2c7ccbf540.jpg Rounding a corner a view of Herm and Jethou and Guernsey https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bed06918d2.jpg Taking a path that leads down. Considering the climb up on the toastrack, this may be hard work on the way back https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ce33d31ef0.jpg I'd seen a sign that said "Window in the rock" which sounded interesting, so i followed it. Then not 1 but 2 signs showing danger. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ac75b4cada.jpg There are no children around to hold on to, so i presume it's not an enforceable requirement and continue.:D A few metres on and the path just... ends. No barrier, no additional warning notice. Just the danger that was warned a few metres back. I get around 30cm from the edge and have a quick peer. Yup, they're not kidding around here. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...88990c5505.jpg I double back and go see the window itself which had previously been occupied by a young couple. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2b7ed578df.jpg Again no ceremony about it, just a sheer drop. The wind though the rock tunnel is quite strong and to avoid any... unhappiness, i get to about a metre away, steady myself on the wall and use my phone as a periscope of sorts. Oh. A cliff. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4af6f7dd1a.jpg The breeze is quite cooling as i head back. Then the uphill ascent starts. It's a good 10 minute climb, and i need several breaks to let my lungs recover. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3abeab8d5c.jpg I meet another couple on their way down near the top ask how far it is, so i explain. I also explain the drops, the views and the absent safety barriers in case there's a vertigo attack in the offing. They look at each other, shrug, smile and carry on down. Can't say i've ever heard any major news reports about deaths from cliff falls; think of all the time saved on risk assessments! :D Back on the route north and the dusty tracks. Google maps says there's a fairy grotto to the right of the path. I think they've just disguised it in ferns and bracken - there's nothing to see. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8c9caec789.jpg Next up just a few meters on is the Eperqurie area. A gun... https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...cd6b88fc68.jpg And then a Landing point you can see below. Wonder if there's an easy path down to see it...? https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...305ada955c.jpg Yup, nice easy path down. There's signs of civilisation here from before, and a modern day guard Beagle from some other walkers https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1e522f00dd.jpg Get down to the landing to see those lovely clear blue waters again. The 2 metal marker posts are actually canons buried into the ground. Rusting a little now though. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...944c95ee5d.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b1cc8742fd.jpg There's also a sea pool for swimming. Thanks, not today - i forgot my towel. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...74855d96d3.jpg As i continue North the ferry passes, probably the 4pm sailing. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6f273cf8f7.jpg Gives me a good time check and how much time before my return crossing at 6pm. There's apparently a Buddhist carving here in the rocks but i fail to see it. I'll sleep well nonetheless. Getting close to the top of Sark now, crossing a chasm on a narrow stoney path with the sea rushing in a good way below. No warning signs here, but probably because this is only a steeply sloping drop, not a sheer one.:p https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ed13edfac8.jpg Finally i get pretty much to the top of Sark or as far as i'm willing to go safely, alone, across rough ground where the "path" ended some metres ago. A stumble or mis-footing and i may get more of that clear blue sea than i bargained with. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8205c39bcb.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d68a999439.jpg I turn and start my return journey back to the Bel Air, i need to be there by 5.30 at the latest and it's now 4.30 or so. There's a stone wall thing. Observation point maybe? easily seen though against the skyline so maybe not WW2 related? https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...00c0b528a4.jpg A little further on some goats, about a half dozen or so - Didn't expect that. Not sure if they are Guernsey golden goats or a Sark breed. Or something else. Or whether they're wild or tame. Doesn't matter to me. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2da270a577.jpg Jersey in the distance, about 15-18 miles away, https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...25c9516803.jpg Back to civilisation and i go past La Seignuerie and it's gardens. YOu can pay to see the gardens or sit in the tea room - i guess the latter does more business. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...27253f5f58.jpg It's been a warm afternoon and i've walked a fair way, time to rehydrate in the Bel Air as i wait for the ferry back. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...817935bb64.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b4523f0471.jpg Probably the cheapest pint i've had this week - £4.60, and it's travelled quite well. Yet it's not quite reached the spot so back inside for a Pale Ale and something for the ferry home. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f19d5776df.jpg Boarding the toastrack, waiting for the return journey down to the harbour https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4fe997e9e7.jpg While we wait, there's some unexpected entertainment. The Landlord the Bel Air is kicking off with the lady running the shop next door. Not sure what it's about but it's getting quite an audience. When the tractor driver comes to collect his £1.80, i'm almost tempted to ask him to hang on so we can see the end. Speaking to some islanders later, it turns out he's a er... "A character"...:confused: On the way down https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c695f3454c.jpg Waiting for the ferry, there's an interesting rock formation. Can imagine that being called the sea monster or something, many years ago. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c135b8c414.jpg The ferry arrives https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4e54a547e2.jpg The tide is now well out and so the level has dropped. A lot of steps of us now to get down. No priority lanes here... https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...daa8ed3e1d.jpg Passing the point i reached on foot. 'Bye goats... https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3968c50ad7.jpg Guernsey buses have their own app for route planning etc, and a bus was due to pass just 7 minutes after we arrived so i made sure i was one of the first off, up the narrow loading ramp and then down to try to find the bus stop. Perfect timing, arrived with about 3 mins to spare. Seems my bus route home is not just the reverse of the route out; instead it takes a circuitous route, and then a change at an unknown point to get back to the hotel. What can go wrong? Part way through the first journey and i have the bus to myself. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fae77ce5fa.jpg The bus change worked like a charm; i just stayed in my seat and after 5 mins the bus set off for the journey to St Peter Port that i had taken this morning - with a stop just outside my hotel. Bar to the bar then, for some light refreshment while i try and catch up with this TR. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...921d0cf1c0.jpg |
This morning i have some work to do - someone has to pay for this trip :) so it means i have a late start. I decide to go into town just for a simple Lunch and a stroll around St Peter Port after the last few days exertions. First step then, the bus into town. With that reminder not far away.
https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e8bae7aa54.jpg Arriving in town and walk down to the Albert Pier. Prince Albert visited here in 18-something and it was named after him. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fc48c2651c.jpg A seafront view. Without the scaffolding i think it;s quite a pretty view. Even better with a nicer reflection:cool: https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e57af826e2.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f4f9d27b04.jpg The Albion pub with the Church just 75cm away (if you measure from the gargoyle) is apparently the closest you get between heaven and Hell. But it's disputed. And still fun :) https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f48923c3a3.jpg Victor Hugo lived here for a while in the 19th Century and this bench is a fun tribute. His house is now a museum you can visit and i believe it is French Territory with the same kind of status as an embassy. It's just there up the hill in the direction of [points left and up]. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...31c3d38feb.jpg Right next to Victor Hugo's bench is a post box with a knitted hat. Not sure the reason, it's not cold out. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...eadf78d3af.jpg Onto the harbour quay and a seagull waits... https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...34d5cc3a18.jpg Some boats. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bcc28f6c6b.jpg Working and walking has built up an appetite so while i am on the Victoria Pier i decide to go to the Boathouse for Lunch. I must have walked past this place a hundred times at least but never eaten here. So... https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...61fd65f327.jpg Liberation is one of the other brewers in the islands but i believe they're in Jersey. To start then a bottle of their principal brew - only lagers on tap here. To start i also chose the Duck and Brandy parfait. The beer took a little time to arrive, barely enough time to pour and get a picture of the lonesome beer before the start arrived itself. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5774caa8e1.jpg And very nice it was too. Smooth, not too rich, and i was surprised how much could be piled on the wafer thin toast before it crumbled. The fat on the top is a very thing layer; i tried scraping it off for the first dive in, but then realised it was so thin as to not bother. By the time i finished it was getting quite soggy. Next up and to continue the fishy theme, scallops in bacon. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a1b358f2b3.jpg Not sure what i was expecting with this. While the scallops were nice the bacon was a little undercooked i thought and not very bacon-y. Presuming the 3 parcels were cooked pre-assembled, i guess cooking the bacon more may spoil the scallops. It wasn't bad, the rice was well cooked and not soggy and the salad fresh and crispy with a nice dressing. With the Liberation glass empty, i moved onto a glass of sauvignon blanc. Not knowing my white wines from my elbow, I just work through the list progressively and start with the one at the top. And it was very nice, not too dry or acidic as i fine too many whites to be. Maybe i should stop buying the cheap stuff :) https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b262c459fe.jpg While that started to be digested, i just sat in the sun watching the other tables fill up. Across the way i could see a man enjoying his lunch on the sea wall, while a seagull anticipated his. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...aadd4f5eed.jpg I considered desert, but to be honest i would be waddling around for the rest of the day as it was, so just paid up and left. Coming out and looking towards the seafront there are many sets of steps going up to the Pollet. I do like my vanishing points such as this. There are brightly coloured flowers all over the town, very pretty. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7fef332d8b.jpg And then when you get to the top, these archways framing each other. Reminds me of a time when this was a proper little port, fishermen and stuff, y'know? ;) https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9df95fee1e.jpg Into the Pollet then, the main shopping street. Down the hill about 100m away is the Moores Hotel. The Bank here is comparatively famous as it was pictured with a German band marching past it not long after the occupation with bemused onlookers. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c0c5f2b47f.jpg Such as, the image shown at the top of this page. So far as i can see the bank is pretty much unchanged externally, the green copper dome can be seen from miles away as you approach on the water. Guernsey has an unusual traffic control system, at junctions each entering road is marked with Filter and waiting vehicles alternate through the junction from each road in turn. Works quite well. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2f9d4b6469.jpg Castle Cornet. Apparently it used to have a high tower which one bright spark (ahem) decided to use to store gunpowder. Which was all well and good. Until there was this thunderstorm and, well, you can guess the rest.... It;s been rebuilt several times https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6b0dd55bd7.jpg Fort George on the headland housed a... Georgian fort... you can still see some of the armaments there but not a walk for today. The Germans had a radar station there and was bombed by the allies on 4th June '44. No coincidence about that date i guess. Just below the fort are the bathing pools, useable at low tide and i've seen them frequently used. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...26a6e53f8c.jpg Cannon on the Castle, which fires every day at noon. Gives some waiting for the ferries a bit of a start. :D https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...54d205690d.jpg Nothing special, just a lighthouse at the entry to the port https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a57d2b87f8.jpg On the Albert Quai there's a kind of boating pond at the end. Seeming to have been invaded by Nessie. (This one's remote controlled though) https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9ce4b786b5.jpg The southern end of the seafront, the start of a twisting turning road going up quite a steep hill. Several times a year they use it for a hill climb, about 900m with the record being around 28sec i think. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...73101df139.jpg There's a gin distillery on the quai where you can see the stills and taste. And buy, of course. I had a nose inside but as a non-spirit drinker not a lot there for me. On the side of the distillery is a mural. And a helpful key to know what's what https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c6518d2447.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...257b3d16d8.jpg Onto the North beach quai and the Guernsey Liberation monument - just opposite the ferry to Herm. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d966c08bc0.jpg Plaques commemorating some nastiness during the occupation including the tomato truck bombing and weighbridge in '40 https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2b62a6e606.jpg After that little stroll, i've become quite thirsty. So I head to the Ship and Crown to rehydrate, this time a pint of liberation from a pump. This pub overlooks the victoria quai and the Boathouse where i ate earlier. A nice refreshing pint. Inside as well, as i was starting to overheat. One of the warmest days of the year here, 24C shown in some places. Positively tropical... :) https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...707c8c15e1.jpg Time fore the bus back. Another executive order and i have an actual roll to fill. Concrete everywhere you look... https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5d0f2e3770.jpg Greenhouses and their produce used to be a huge export for Guernsey, with their comparatively mild climate. Then the oil crisis came in 1973 and i'm told it ended the industry almost overnight. Now they just lay in ruins all over the island. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a53fa60b18.jpg Back at the hotel, a little time for the TR before i have to get ready for tonight. |
This evening is another short excursion but not many picture i'm afraid; a bus ride to a coastal walk before dinner at a nearby hotel. Though for those that don't/can't/won't do the walk, i'm to lead them on an ardous 40km yomp (300m road walk) though tropical jungle (past some hedges) and scaling some cliffs (there's a kerb). The coastal walk for the others is to walk the coast down near Moulin Huet Bay just along from Jerbourg we visited the other day - Renoir painted some scenes here. The islands had put up some frames through which you could see the views he painted, and his picture. Not sure they're still there or not.
After a tortuous 5 minute stroll we arrive at the location for dinner tonight, Les Douvres. It's a hotel as well as restaurant and Pub, not sure how many room though. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4482637acd.jpg While we wait for the walkers to arrive we check the pub operations. London pride for me. I couldn't be sure if it was up to standard so i had to have another to make sure. I think it was probably fine, although no photographic proof this time. The walkers arrive, and we're at our table well ahead of our 7.30pm booked time. All our meals are pre-ordered - standard here for a party of 24, yet by 8pm nothing has been served. The server drinks service that was explained also hasn't materialised, so there's a queue forming at the bar. The sole bar man is overloaded trying to prepare 2 or even 3 drinks at the same time. 8.15 and the first starters appear; With MrsFr we share a Mezze platter; it's ok, but nothing special. Some starters are missing or wrong for others and that takes a little time to sort out. With our return bus booked for 9.15pm, its 8.45 and ónly now do some of the mains come. Again, some are wrong or missing and people are starting to talk. While at the bar i witness a German couple refuse their food that they've waited 1.5 hours for and are getting quite heated about it with the duty manager only able to say sorry. Another couple pass and say they're off without waiting any more and they're not paying for their drinks. I ask the barman about it and he says that they've 4 people off tonight, but it's like this normally anyway. Not the best way to run a business. Our organiser is now getting a little stressed about the bus arrival, but with Dinner not yet even served in some cases; the bus driver is not answering his mobile to discuss about delaying his return. In the end the organiser negotiated "express delivery" for all the remaining mains and deserts in any order. Fortunately our party were quite understanding, i'm told the last deserts (some sorbets) arrived at 9.10, eaten in haste, then outside waiting for the bus. Some of us who had finished earlier were waiting outside - trying to work out who had lost their bike. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c135ad048d.jpg The bus arrived bang on 9.15, blocking the road. With now some gossip to chat about, back to the hotel and sleep. |
Today was the day i had planned to walk across to Lihou island - an even tinier lump of rock sticking out of the sea. It's connected to Guernsey by a causeway which is only open a for a few hours during low tide and daylight.
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...818e1d5227.jpg It's apparently a renowned bird sanctuary; i was just going for a different walk and get my feet wet. Though, as i am seemingly unable to read a tide table, my plans have changed as the causeway is closed for the next few days, next opening is a week later. With a change of plan i head up to Pleinmont on the SW tip on Guernsey. Here is one of the well known observation towers, this is MP3. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...92f2093913.jpg This was purely for observing the sea looking for enemy shipping. There's a gun emplacement nearby that the locals tried to destroy after the occupation - without realising how hard it was. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e3eb197073.jpg Hanois lighthouse, there are loads of lighthouses up and down the coasts of these islands. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1533e754b3.jpg Lihou island again; at the bottom of the cliff is the fairy ring. A historically insignificant ring of small stones that are now overgrown that someone assembled in the 1930s as they thought it would be nice. No-one has ever seen a fairy here... :p https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a7dfb0a41c.jpg I then move on to Torteval - where the bus almost stopped a few days ago. I find this site on Guernsey the most moving and somber, but also the most interesting. Along the coast there are multiple other Observation towers into the distance. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...eced7fc767.jpg it;s only a short walk down to the nearest, MP4 https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2716748c84.jpg Up close to the monstrosity https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2caded31d5.jpg Someone else lost their bike?:cool: These towers are open and you're free to wander around inside. The metalwork is deteriorating in the sea air, but no sign of the concrete going anywhere. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fd2c9e7d52.jpg inside MP4, the view out https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1652664e84.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...816232fd79.jpg It's entirely feasible to go up or down the levels, although today i'm not trusting that 80+ year old concrete, despite it looking ok. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...972f5c3288.jpg from the front https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b30732cf4b.jpg A very imposing view, although by itself effectively harmless. walking to the edge, a bit breezy up there so i keep well back. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...78b8deecab.jpg visitors not welcome https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...46da67ebc4.jpg these walls are thick, designed to resist a direct hit. Must be at least 1.40 thick. Still fascinated by that formwork. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...930e4f336d.jpg Back up to where i started and parked the car; here there is another construction, this time a control post. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...23e0bbb5d8.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6190d2f5fb.jpg The lower level for observation https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...515844de3f.jpg Inside the upper level. As the metalwork supporting the roof is decaying, the granite blocks have been installed by the preservation group. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5d2cce4e1b.jpg First time i've seen inside here - iphone as a periscope, again, but the wind was very strong and was worried about losing grip. An Aurigny prop flight on final approach to CGI. Can't help but think what would have happened if this had happened a little over 80 years ago. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...128964d6e1.jpg Out of the car park at the control tower there's a little path https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...75438c4118.jpg which leads to... https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...52c557953d.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9db8b6aa02.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...577cca29da.jpg A trench, bunker and gun system Wouldn't want to be trapped in here as the last line of defense... https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0a3158cffe.jpg 22cm gun https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d45a298dcb.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e7829a25d8.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...33f15cba13.jpg entrance to the trenches and bunker system. Got to look hard to find an easy way in! Or just have a little previous knowledge:D https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bb68377edc.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2f8abfa7a9.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4d1dc1239b.jpg Around the gun emplacement, there are bunks for the crew to be immediately on hand. Not sure you'd get much sleep here anyway. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3d456fc7f7.jpg The whole complex is open for one to wander without charge, entirely at your leisure with your own thoughts and imagination. I find sometimes it's quite scary just thinking about what could have happened... After a look around, time for lunch. Back up in Cobo bay there's the Rockmount. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f28b1bd3a3.jpg Been passed here many times and never tried it either, so time for a little refreshment. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...98c46f950e.jpg Sitting outside you order at the bar, which i didn't realise until i went and asked why no-one had come. Inside has server service. With my final seafood choice of the week, I chose the crab and avocado salad. No pre-order! :) https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...78bc8e3f2f.jpg I'm a little disappointed. I was expecting larger pieces of crab, rather than a pot of shredded meat. Didnt really taste very crabby or seafoody. Bear that in mind for next time. Salad dressing was nice though, not too sharp. While eating a French lady approached from the next table and in poor english asked what i was eating, so i explained. She went back to her table where her husband was waiting and having now been there since before i arrived was bemused that there was no server. Of course, i offered my help; explained how/where to order, asked if they understood the menu, etc. One brief menu translation later and we're at the bar ordering some drinks, another crab salad and a burger with the meat cooked very, VERY rare. Guernsey rare is not the same as French rare :) Nice to have been able to give back, for the all the countries where i have taken.... Cobo bay is a pretty little place. Nice beaches, and in the evening stunning sunsets https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7659711636.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...990b10dd31.jpg The water is very inviting, but i'm sure i;ve just seen an iceberg go floating past... :D This afternoon, to the l'eree headland. On the way up, a stop off an an ancient burial mound https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9e10c02716.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d5e84fcee5.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...437cf6c643.jpg While it's been cleaned up a little, it's supposedly from around 2500-3500BC; older than the pyramids. On the islands there are many such stone monuments. Lihou Island again, just after high tide. The causeway is only open for 2-3 hours around low tide. But not today. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a78923cbbe.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c12377c6fa.jpg One of these... https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3773e28363.jpg With its accompanying bunker and gun system (Of course) https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a6f563087b.jpg Still love the clarity and colour of the sea https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...195c8b7e0a.jpg Final visit for the day is to the Grandes Rocques Battery. Not as big as Fort Hommet, but still interesting to see. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...481940dd5a.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3adc3242d5.jpg The shuttering to make this gun turret is still in place - nearly 85 years on. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3d82132d9f.jpg After an afternoon in the sun, some light refreshment before back to the hotel https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4b6816e402.jpg Another event for the group this evening which i'm attending. On returning, time to catch up a little and then bed, its been a tiring day. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...de9950c7c1.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2e15a813f0.jpg Not many of these left to go this week... |
With a whole day off MrsFr and a few friends want to go shopping in town but i'm feeling a bit knackered. Having performed taxi driver duties i go back to the hotel to rest. I'm going to have a down day.
A bit about the hotel then. They try and show it as a 4 star property, but it's clearly not - Typical 3 star place with aspirations. Some of the rooms are not renovated and have what other guests report as "clingy" shower curtains and split lino floors and old furnishings. Our room was ok, but there was a lot of wasted space which could have been better used and poor choice of design. A second chair or a longer desk. There are only 3 sockets in the room: 1 is tucked away in a corner, the others above where the kettle is placed; the desk where chargeables would be placed is a fair stretch for charging cables. Last time we had a regular double room not a king and instead of the chair was a sofa bed. Couldn't use it as a sofa as the springs had collapsed, just as you collapse into it as you try to just sit. All Heritage of it's '80s Mercure roots. They do lots of social events here, and 4 of the 7 nights we are here there was something booked, A party, memorial, prom, and a wedding. Fortunately they have separate catering and bars else for other guests service would be impossible. I estimate they have upwards of 90 rooms and for the whole time we were there it was pretty much 100% occupancy. While they are so full there is little incentive to do something about making the rooms better. There are no electronic key cards here, but old fashioned keys and a fob. Along with the room charges shown on the back of the door, there's also a listed fee of £180 for a lost key...:rolleyes: https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4cd3cb1040.jpg It's easy to see how full the hotel is; The peg board behind reception where keys are kept. And yes, there can be a wait if there are lots of people waiting https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...69cabe02ae.jpg The number of keys remaining on the board at the end of the evening shows how many rooms are not yet occupied. The public areas were quite nice. Clean, well maintained, frequently refurnished. The bar was often busy all through the day; many stop by for a coffee and a chat https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...51434e9e74.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8cc0e3a4f5.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6dde928eb2.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0cef7c33a4.jpg The restaurant served all 3 meal courses, from breakfast at 7am, lunch, and then dinner from 6-9pm. Evening meals could also be taken in the bar, and uncooked food could be ordered in advance to be served after 9pm. The first years we came breakfast only opened at 8am; there was a huge rush when it opened and staff were overwhelmed. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d6ec83936e.jpg Breakfast was not too bad, a full english Buffet was available, not freshly cooked like the Moores but perfectly fine; The continental offering didn't seem so good though. I'm not sure they understand the concept and the products they provide were a bit simplistic and mediocre. We could tell when a function was coming as all the "correct" tableware disappeared; cereal bowls replaced by soup bowls, coffee cups replace by these huge things ironically bigger than a cappuccino cup, small plates just went, desert spoons replaced by soup spoons. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...78e60ff74e.jpg going to miss those when we get home. Sadly their drinks offering wasn't the best; "specialty drinks" such as my morning preferred cappuccino were not free; i spoke to the manager about it last year and he explained they don't have enough staff to spend minutes preparing just 1 drink at the bar so the charge is a deterrent (Thinks: get a barista in the bar to make those, or allow pre-ordering?). Breakfast Tea was pre-made and kept in flask jugs and revolting. Boiling water if you wanted to make your own was also in a flask and not boiling any more. And they refused to provide (breakfast) tea bags anyway; the non-islander staff didn't seem to understand when they had their selection of special teas already displayed. Most took tea in their rooms before or after. Outside there is a pool. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c428192e3c.jpg And an events space. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ef2276a7a0.jpg Yes, It's an old 1960s routemaster in case you were wondering. A barman told me they do tours around the island on it, but we never saw it move except when they started it up at 7am one morning so they could strim the grass around it :mad: There's the bay opposite, and their own martello tower just across the way. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...dcba6bde8a.jpg With the shopping party collected from town, it's time for the end of course dinner at the nearby pub, the Puffin and Oyster. Hopefully this pre-ordered food has no problems - at least there's no bus as tghe hotel is just a 3 minute walk away, opposite the bus stop i've been using. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...deb43555da.jpg Perusing the beers on offer https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4dae4ea21a.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...868fcb9ec6.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...107d1c4432.jpg I go for the Dark Sky. It's an LBBC beer named after Herm which got certification of some kind for it's dark skies and a haven for astromomers. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...38df9f5ced.jpg Chocolate stout. Yum, nice flavour and not as heavy as i expected. For food another Sharing platter, and then for me the Korean BBQ ribs. The platter was ok, but only ok. Nice olives though, a surprising Chili bite The ribs - what a disappointment. While the meat itself was fine, there was nothing Korean to it that i could find. They were just ribs in a mild BBQ sauce. I was expecting some sort of chili flavoring of some kind to come through, but not. Anything really. To cheer myself up, i had a waverider Pale Ale. Too gassy for me though. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7c1ec8b01c.jpg For dessert, affogato. Espresso, couple blobs of vanilla ice cream, a drop of something with a bit of pep, right? Not here, just the espresso and 1 blob. I shouldn't have got my hopes up, just not what i had had before nor expected. The whole meal was a bit of a let down and the bar was not set to the highest to start with. A disappoint end to the day. |
Time has come to leave the Peninsula today. First though another taxi run for me. One of the course members has an earlier flight for a later connection and no taxis are available before 9am and there are no buses to the airport. Good way to welcome tourists there, Guernsey.
Therefore a run to the airport just after 7am about 20 mins away. And i only got caught up in 1 cycle race! The terminal at CGI is undergoing some work. Not a clue what for. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c8cd1732ac.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5005c6a36b.jpg Checkin is a little busy for a Blue Islands flight While the group is leaving today, we have a little time left as our ferry back to France is not until tomorrow evening. We take a slow drive into town and try to check in again at the Moores. A different room this time overlooking the Pollet. Still got the flowers, even on the second floor. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3d29806730.jpg This room is smaller than before but it does have aircon https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7e6082ab16.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...68349f8151.jpg Though, the "fridge" they have provided is laughable. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...515b2b9b6c.jpg With the insulation inside it's barely big enough for 2 drinks cans. A 1.5L bottle of water doesn't fit - just so they can get their star rating. There was room for a regular minibar sized unit elsewhere in the room, they just needed to think about it a bit Later in the afternoon we go to a small family BBQ. Nice and relaxed :) On the way back to the hotel and having parked the car, we stop in at the Thomas De La Rue pub which is on the corner of the Pollet just a few metres down from the Hotel. I've been dry all evening, so probably my last beer of the trip. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9113da377c.jpg Sitting inside there's a karaoke night on and the volume of the music seems to be inversly proportional to the quality of the singers and shouters. We move downstairs for a table outside where it's much quieter. Having finished up we go back to the room. Sadly while we had finished, the Karaoke hadn't and it goes on and on at that high volume. It's still going at 11.30pm as us oldies are trying to get some sleep, but the white noise of the air con seems to help us to sleep eventually. |
The next morning and having slept pretty well despite the noise it's the same breakfast as before.
https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...be73597147.jpg This time i get an extra sausage in exchange for the unwanted beans and 'shrooms. Our Ferry is not until after 6pm and don't need to be at the checkin until at least 4pm. SO counting down the hours trying to fill those up too. Nothing here we really need or want to see. Outside the hotel above the terrace and our room the first night here is a mural showing famous Islanders. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b9a3734f5d.jpg Bonus point for each one you can name... :) It's mid morning and MrsFr gets a call from a friend for a meet up, so we agree on the Jerbourg Hotel - on the headland we stopped at a few days ago. The advantage of the Hotel there is that they have cakes, lots of cakes, and they're all georgeous. Must have been a dozen times over the years and not had a bad one yet. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bd12c861c5.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1f4a85322d.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e8c9e57447.jpg Mines the salted pecan caramel chocolate cream gateau pie. Cake. also pictured are a strawberry tart and a Scone. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4eb6d489d2.jpg Mine served with a cappuccino, natch :D https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a0857246e7.jpg Even better, if consumed before midday it's calorie free! :D The view from the hotel terrace with Herm in the distance. A nice clear day and very warm in the sun. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7440b7fcdc.jpg Having consumed and chatted we leave and head back to town. The missing pump from our first weekend near the hotel has now returned! https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8f2d4709c9.jpg glad it only went away for a short trip of its own; one of those props from a bygone age. The Pollet decorated with lots of colourful flowers. Most of the town if not the Island is as well. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c15dc8bd43.jpg Along the Pollet some doorways are quite interesting to see and point back to their usage in the past. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...88bfe52c6a.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3db36e16d4.jpg Flowers made out to be the Guernsey flag along the sea front, not far from the De La Rue pub from last night https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...11920e313c.jpg We're bored and still 4 hours before the ferry so go for a drink in Cafe Emilia. I did suggest something stonger and longer but i was strongly outvoted :) https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...df2ab4e7de.jpg so, a berry milkshake. Next, a trip to Waitrose to see if we can find any snacks for the voyage. We arrive at checkin before they open again so a short wait until we're the first to get through the checkin and security inspection. Waiting for the ferry https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...002a41aa43.jpg While we wait i see a constant stream of foot passengers the other side of the security fence going to the passenger terminal. That's not a good omen. The facilities. I didn't bother... https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0570d9f52d.jpg Onboard and the foot passengers are indeed overwhelming. despite being pretty much the first vehicle loaded all the "good" seats are already taken. Hoards of school children are thankfully corralled at the back of the vessel so we're at the front. Space is at a premium and we're running 30 mins late. Not so much knee room this time. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1479397c5b.jpg In front of us are 3 larger gentlemen who are up and down through the whole crossing like a <redacted>. Behind us is a young family trying to control their toddler and failing miserably; it kicks our seat backs every few minutes as it has a little paddy and they walk away with it, but always bring it back. Not a lot of seat options available to move to, and no cabin crew to help manage the situation. The joys of public transport. At least it wasn;t screaming. Arriving at Saint-Malo https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c3f87fc908.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...18daeb675b.jpg Bicycles are unloaded first and while we are one of the first vehicles off there's still a short wait at immigration. This time though i choose well and win the queue lottery by advancing a couple of cars ahead. Straight to the hotel, this time I dump the car outside the front door and go to checkin. The Duty manager, receptionist and bar person is a little pre-occupied by the german bus tour group trying to order and pay for 1 drink at a time at the bar, while check in me and the 2 other guests ahead. It;s almost 10pm and most restaurants will be closed but the guest in front asks about food. She's new and doesn;t know the area, but i offer Bar Naan and a few other places about 100m from here. But run. I ask for the cark park access when i checkin and she waives the fee as i was helpful the previous guest - karma! :) Back in the car and around to the car park and its concealed entrance https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...abd24b3aa0.jpg Our room is also upgraded, this time to a king double not a priveledge room. So no bath robes, no minibar, no coffee machine - but in all honesty we wouldn;t have used them anyway. The room is large enough, plenty of sockets to charge stuff from and has air con. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...54b596c57b.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8a6e31a944.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...afa824eec8.jpg MrsFr suddenly declares she's hungry so it;s dump and run so we can follow my own advice to the previous guest and get somewhere before it closes. before we even get to Bar Naan there's a burger place where i can see the previous guest sitting outside, but is obviously now closed at 10.05, and a kebab place next door. Kebab it is. A fed MrsFr and we return back to the hotel. |
we sleep well and wake to a nice morning
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7e335a01ba.jpg Down to breakfast and the bus group has gone. It's nothing special and i find the layout a bit disorganised. bowl not by the ceral, nespresso machine and orange juice in different locations to the other juices and their normal machine. Not very practical. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0f6167b2a6.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9731a46742.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0c594570d4.jpg After checking out, then the drive home across france. With that, that's the end of the report. Sorry if it might have been a bit long but thanks for getting and reading this far. |
Thanks for sharing. It was interesting to see the islands we missed when we only went to Jersey!
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Originally Posted by MalFr
(Post 37180108)
With that, that's the end of the report. Sorry if it might have been a bit long but thanks for getting and reading this far.
|
Already on my shortlist, this great TR and pics moved it up a few notches.
From what little I know, Hitler was so enamored with having a piece of Great Britain under his heel that way too many resources were spent on the defense of the Islands, and in that way the Channel Islands contributed to the war effort. The German garrison was simply island-hopped over, akin to the American strategy in the Pacific. Still, Churchill was annoyed that the population capitulated so readily with little guerrilla sabotage efforts and so relief came late leaving both the citizens and occupation force to stave till the very end of the war. I am sure that my take is overly simplistic as what I have gleaned is only from fictional accounts. Still, I would venture with certainty that the Channel Islands was not the best place to spend the duration…although undoubtedly there were worse. |
Originally Posted by Jailer
(Post 37191286)
Already on my shortlist, this great TR and pics moved it up a few notches.
From what little I know, Hitler was so enamored with having a piece of Great Britain under his heel that way too many resources were spent on the defense of the Islands, and in that way the Channel Islands contributed to the war effort. The German garrison was simply island-hopped over, akin to the American strategy in the Pacific. Still, Churchill was annoyed that the population capitulated so readily with little guerrilla sabotage efforts and so relief came late leaving both the citizens and occupation force to stave till the very end of the war. I am sure that my take is overly simplistic as what I have gleaned is only from fictional accounts. Still, I would venture with certainty that the Channel Islands was not the best place to spend the duration…although undoubtedly there were worse. So far as i understand the British, aware that they could not easily defend the islands fully, demilitarised some days/weeks before the German invasion but sadly that detail wasn't received by the Germans who believed the islands to be fully combative at the time of their invasion. When there was no resistance, the garrisons were bused in as you say. Considering the proximity to mainland Europe it's easy to see how the islands could be a tactical advantage, and i believe it's why Hitler wanted them as part of the Atlantic Wall. I also heard somewhere that he planned for the islands to be a kind of Nazi holiday camp after they had won... |
[QUOTE=MalFr;37180108....With that, that's the end of the report. Sorry if it might have been a bit long but thanks for getting and reading this far.[/QUOTE]
Excellent report, and there's no such thing as too long, just ask Seat2A :D |
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