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Hauteville House: Victor Hugo's Island Sanctuary

Step into the world of Victor Hugo at his Guernsey home, a unique museum showcasing his life, works, and creative genius.

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Explore Hauteville House, Victor Hugo's former residence in Guernsey during his exile. This unique museum, designed by the author himself, offers a glimpse into his life, creative process, and the inspiration behind masterpieces like 'Les Misérables'.

A brief summary to Hauteville House

Local tips

  • Book your guided tour in advance, especially during peak season, as group sizes are limited.
  • Allow at least one hour for the guided tour to fully experience the house and its history.
  • Note that Hauteville House is closed on Wednesdays.
  • Access to the garden is free during the museum's opening hours.
  • The house is located on a hill, so be prepared for a moderately steep walk from the town center.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Town Terminus in St Peter Port, Hauteville House is approximately a 15-minute walk uphill. Head north-east on the High Street, then turn left onto Mansell Street. Continue onto Hauteville, where you'll find the house on your right. Be prepared for a moderately steep incline.

  • Public Transport

    Guernsey's bus service, Buses.gg, operates various routes throughout the island. All service routes operate to and from the Town Terminus bus station in St Peter Port. From the bus station, it is approximately a 15-minute walk to Hauteville House. Follow the walking directions from the Town Terminus.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available at the airport, the Bridge (St Sampson) and in St Peter Port. A taxi from the St Peter Port harbor to Hauteville House will cost approximately £7 - £10. It's recommended to book in advance.

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Discover more about Hauteville House

Hauteville House, located at 38 Hauteville in St Peter Port, Guernsey, was the residence of Victor Hugo during his exile from France between 1856 and 1870. The house, purchased with the proceeds from his collection of poems, 'Les Contemplations', was the only property Hugo ever owned. Today, it stands as a museum, maintained by the City of Paris, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the life and creative world of the renowned French writer. Hugo himself transformed and decorated the five-story house, imbuing it with his personal style and vision. Each room reflects a different facet of his personality and works, creating a unique atmosphere throughout the house. The interior is filled with objects and features designed by Hugo, including an archway in the entrance hall inspired by 'Notre Dame de Paris'. Visitors can explore the vestibule, billiard room, tapestry room, and the dining room with its Delft-tiled walls. The top floor features a glazed lookout offering views of Saint Peter Port, Herm, Sark, and nearby islands. During his time at Hauteville House, Hugo wrote some of his most influential works, including 'Les Misérables' and 'Toilers of the Sea'. The latter novel is dedicated to the people of Guernsey, reflecting his love for the island and the inspiration he found there. The house is surrounded by a large garden filled with trees and flowers, flourishing in Guernsey's mild climate. A tour of the house takes visitors from the shadows of the ground floor to the light-filled rooms at the top, providing a symbolic journey through Hugo's life and work.

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