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Hauteville House: Victor Hugo's Guernsey Sanctuary

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Step into the world of Victor Hugo at his unique and inspiring home in Guernsey.

Explore Hauteville House, Victor Hugo's residence during his exile in Guernsey. This meticulously decorated home, filled with symbolism and literary inspiration, offers a unique glimpse into the life and creative mind of the author of Les Misérables.

A brief summary to Hauteville House

Local tips

  • Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, as group sizes are limited.
  • Allow at least 1 hour for the guided tour to fully appreciate the house and its history.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there are stairs throughout the five-story house.
  • The tour guides are French, offering tours in both French and English.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Hauteville House is located on Hauteville, a short walk uphill from the main town center of St. Peter Port. From the Town Terminus (the central bus station), walk north-east along the High Street, then turn left onto Mansell Street. Continue uphill on Hauteville. The house is on the left-hand side, approximately a 10-minute walk. Be aware that Hauteville is a fairly steep climb.

  • Public Transport

    All bus routes lead to the Town Terminus in St. Peter Port. From there, follow the walking directions to Hauteville House. A single bus fare within Guernsey costs around £1.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from the airport and in St Peter Port. A taxi from the Town Terminus to Hauteville House will cost approximately £7-£10. Pre-booking is recommended.

  • Driving

    Driving to Hauteville House is possible, but parking in the area is limited. On-street parking is available on Hauteville, but it is a disc zone, requiring a parking clock to display your arrival time. Parking clocks can be purchased for £5.50 from the Guernsey Information Centre, the Police Station, or Driver & Vehicle Licensing. Be aware that most parking near the center of St. Peter Port is short-stay (two hours or less).

Discover more about Hauteville House

Hauteville House, located in St. Peter Port, Guernsey, was the residence of Victor Hugo during his exile from France between 1856 and 1870. Purchased with the proceeds from his collection of poems, *Les Contemplations*, it was the only property Hugo ever owned. The house provided Hugo with a sanctuary and a space to create some of his most famous works, including *Les Misérables* and *Toilers of the Sea*. Hugo himself designed and decorated the five-story house, imbuing it with his personal style and symbolism. Each room reflects his literary, philosophical, and political views. The house is filled with a mix of styles, including medieval, marine, and oriental influences. Visitors can explore the various rooms, from the shadows of the ground floor to the light-filled belvedere at the top, which offers stunning views of St. Peter Port and the surrounding islands. Highlights include the Tapestry Room with its monumental fireplace, the dining room adorned with Delft tiles featuring Hugo's initials, and the lookout at the top of the house where Hugo wrote. The garden, filled with trees and flowers, offers a tranquil escape. Hauteville House remained in the Hugo family until 1927 when it was donated to the City of Paris. Today, it operates as a museum, offering guided tours that provide insight into Hugo's life and work.

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