Portelet Bay: A Secluded Gem in Guernsey

Discover the serene beauty and historical charm of Portelet Bay in Guernsey, a hidden gem perfect for relaxation, water sports, and picturesque coastal hikes.

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Portelet Bay

Nestled on the southern coast of Guernsey, Portelet Bay is a hidden gem that promises serene beauty and a tranquil escape. The bay is known for its clear waters, golden sands, and the picturesque setting that makes it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection. Portelet Bay offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm. The bay is home to the historic Portelet Tower, a Martello tower that stands as a reminder of the island’s rich past. The tower adds a touch of history to the breathtaking scenery, making it a fascinating spot for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The bay’s calm waters make it an ideal location for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For those who prefer to stay on land, the surrounding cliffs provide excellent hiking trails with stunning views of the coastline. The paths are well-maintained and suitable for all levels of hikers, making it a great destination for families and solo travelers alike. After a day of exploring, visitors can enjoy local cuisine at nearby cafes and restaurants that offer fresh seafood and other local delicacies. The friendly local community adds to the charm of Portelet Bay, making every visit a memorable experience.

Local tips in Portelet Bay

Visit early in the morning to enjoy the bay at its most peaceful and avoid crowds.
Bring a picnic as there are few amenities directly at the bay.
Check the tide times before planning your visit, as the beach area can vary greatly.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike the surrounding cliffs.
Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views and historical sites.

File:L'Île au Guerdain Jersey.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Guernsey, Channel Islands (49565611907).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Guernsey 2011 013, Loophole Tower 11.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Guernsey 2011 151, Fort Grey.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Portelet Bay?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Castle Cornet

Explore the majestic Castle Cornet in Guernsey, a historic fortress brimming with maritime history and stunning coastal views.

The Little Chapel

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Saumarez Park

Explore the serene beauty and historical charm of Saumarez Park, a must-visit natural escape in Guernsey.

German Occupation Museum

Discover Guernsey's poignant past at the German Occupation Museum, where history and humanity intersect through powerful exhibits and personal stories.

Jerbourg Kiosk

Discover the scenic Jerbourg Kiosk in Guernsey, a perfect blend of delightful refreshments and breathtaking coastal views.

Sausmarez Manor

Experience the enchanting beauty and rich history of Sausmarez Manor, a stunning manor house and gardens in the heart of Guernsey.

German Underground Hospital

Explore the depths of history at the German Underground Hospital in Guernsey, a unique WWII site showcasing remarkable artifacts and underground tunnels.

Petit Bot Tearooms

Discover the charm of Petit Bot Tearooms in Guernsey, a perfect blend of delightful treats and breathtaking coastal views.

Grandes Rocques Beach

Discover the tranquil beauty of Grandes Rocques Beach in Guernsey, a perfect getaway for sunbathing, swimming, and scenic walks along the coastline.

Fort Grey Shipwreck Museum

Explore the maritime history of Guernsey at Fort Grey Shipwreck Museum, where shipwreck tales come alive against a backdrop of stunning coastal views.

Fort Hommet

Explore Fort Hommet in Guernsey - A Historic Fortress with Stunning Views and Rich Military Heritage Awaiting Your Discovery.

Vale Castle

Explore the historical splendor and stunning vistas of Vale Castle, a must-see destination in Guernsey for every traveler.

Moulin Huet Bay

Experience the serene beauty of Moulin Huet Bay, Guernsey's hidden gem, where stunning views and a charming tea room await.

La Valette Underground Military Museum

Delve into Guernsey's rich military history at La Valette Underground Military Museum, where stories of courage and resilience come alive.

Petit Port

Experience the tranquil beauty of Petit Port, a serene public beach on Guernsey's stunning south coast, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Essential places to dine

The Rockmount - Randalls

Discover The Rockmount - Randalls: A premier gastropub offering exquisite dishes and stunning coastal views in Guernsey.

Crabby Jack's

Discover Crabby Jack's in Guernsey - where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views for an unforgettable dining experience.

Octopus Restaurant

Experience fresh seafood delights at Octopus Restaurant in St. Peter Port—where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.

The Terrace Garden Cafe

Experience authentic Thai flavors at The Terrace Garden Cafe in Guernsey – where delicious meets delightful!

Cobo Bay Hotel & The Beach Terrace

Experience coastal charm at Cobo Bay Hotel & The Beach Terrace - where luxury meets stunning sea views in Guernsey.

La Perla Restaurant

Discover authentic Guernsey cuisine at La Perla Restaurant - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

Fleur du Jardin

Discover Fleur du Jardin: A charming hotel blending comfort with local flavors in picturesque Castel, Guernsey.

Best Western Moores Central Hotel

Experience comfort and hospitality at Best Western Moores Central Hotel in Guernsey - your perfect base for island adventures.

La Piette Hotel

Discover unparalleled comfort at La Piette Hotel - your perfect retreat in St. Peter Port with stunning harbor views and exquisite dining.

Pier 17 Restaurant

Discover Pier 17 Restaurant: Enjoy fresh seafood and stunning harbor views in Guernsey's culinary hotspot.

The Duke Of Normandie Hotel

Discover The Duke Of Normandie Hotel: A Historic Gem Offering Luxurious Comfort and Culinary Delights in St. Peter Port.

La Barbarie Hotel

Experience comfort and culinary delights at La Barbarie Hotel in St. Martins, Guernsey – your perfect getaway.

The Kiln

Experience the flavors of Guernsey at The Kiln – where local ingredients meet culinary excellence in a charming setting.

The Lobster and Grill

Experience exquisite seafood dining at The Lobster and Grill in Guernsey - where fresh flavors meet coastal charm.

Le Friquet Hotel

Discover comfort and culinary delights at Le Friquet Hotel in Guernsey – your gateway to exploring this beautiful island.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Guernsey Pearl

Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Guernsey Pearl, where local artistry meets elegant jewelry in a stunning island setting.

Portelet Kiosk

Discover the charm of Portelet Kiosk, a coastal café in Guernsey offering delicious treats and stunning views.

Forest Stores

Explore Forest Stores in Guernsey for local produce and unique artisanal goods in a charming community atmosphere.

Morrisons Daily

Discover convenience at Morrisons Daily in St Saviour, Guernsey, your go-to spot for essentials and local treats.

Le Tricoteur

Explore the charm of Le Tricoteur, Guernsey's premier clothing store, renowned for its artisanal Guernsey sweaters and local fashion.

Cadeaux Guernsey Gift Shop

Explore Cadeaux Guernsey Gift Shop for unique and locally crafted souvenirs in the heart of the Channel Islands.

Bruce Russell and Son, Gold & Silversmiths

Explore exquisite craftsmanship and unique pieces at Bruce Russell and Son, Gold & Silversmiths in Le Gron, St Saviour.

SEPHORA

Explore Sephora in Guernsey for an exceptional beauty shopping experience with top brands and expert advice.

The Guernsey Shop

Explore The Guernsey Shop: Your destination for unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Guernsey.

Home Comforts

Discover unique gifts and home furnishings at Home Comforts in St. Martins, Guernsey, your perfect shopping destination for memorable souvenirs.

Mohair Sock Company Limited

Discover the warmth and luxury of handcrafted mohair socks at Mohair Sock Company Limited, a must-visit store in picturesque Guernsey.

Cobo Village Centre

Discover the charm of Cobo Village Centre, a convenient stop in Guernsey for local treats and essential items during your travels.

PLAISIRS

Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Plaisirs, Guernsey's charming gift shop specializing in candles, clothing, and beauty supplies.

Guernsey Made.com

Explore Guernsey's charm at Guernsey Made.com, your destination for exquisite locally crafted gifts and authentic souvenirs.

Lucy Brouard Ltd

Discover unique local products and gifts at Lucy Brouard Ltd, a charming store in the heart of Guernsey, reflecting the island's culture and craftsmanship.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Rockmount - Randalls

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The Deerhound

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The Imperial Hotel & Restaurant

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and culinary excellence at The Imperial Hotel & Restaurant in stunning Guernsey.

The Cock and Bull

Experience the lively atmosphere at The Cock and Bull, a premier pub in St. Peter Port, Guernsey, renowned for its craft beers and live music.

The Doghouse

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The Last Post - Mint Brasserie

Experience the charm of Guernsey at The Last Post - Mint Brasserie, where local flavors and inviting atmosphere come together for an unforgettable dining experience.

The Swan Inn

Experience the local charm and vibrant atmosphere at The Swan Inn, Guernsey's favorite bar for tourists and locals alike.

Dorset Arms

Discover the heart of Guernsey at Dorset Arms, a delightful pub offering local drinks, hearty fare, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

The Red Lion - Randalls

Experience traditional British hospitality at The Red Lion in Guernsey, a lively pub with great food, drinks, and local charm.

Happy Landings

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Harbour Lights

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JB Parkers' Bar & Cellar

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Venture Inn - Randalls

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PingQuay

Experience the charm of Guernsey at PingQuay, a lively bar by the waterside offering local drinks and stunning views.

The Oak Bar

Experience the charm of The Oak Bar in Guernsey – a cozy pub offering local brews, hearty meals, and a vibrant atmosphere for all.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Portelet Bay

Discover Portelet Bay with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Portelet Bay

- HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh re-vwah]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît
  [seel voo pleh]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi
  [ex-kew-zay mwa]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et toi?
  [byen. ey twah]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr luh meh-nyoo, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [san-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!À l'aide!
  [ah leyd]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay vooz ahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah poh-leez]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-peh-lay uh meh-duh-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray ah-shet-ay]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gahrd zhewst]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say tro shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-veh voo bay-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kell er ay-teel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel ay tun er]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demi
  [dees er ay dem-ee]
- MorningMatin
  [ma-tan]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-prey mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [yair]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-man]
- 1Un
  [uh]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [trwah]
- 4Quatre
  [kat]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [sett]
- 8Huit
  [weet]
- 9Neuf
  [nuff]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où est...
  [oo ay]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kell ay lah-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-veh voo muh mohn-tray (surr lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn ay luh proh-shahn (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ...)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Portelet Bay

Portelet Bay, nestled on the west coast of Guernsey, boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that early settlers inhabited the area, drawn by its natural resources and strategic maritime location. The bay served as a crucial point for fishing and trade, with early inhabitants building simple structures along its shores. The picturesque landscape provided both sustenance and protection, fostering a small but thriving community.
During the medieval period, Portelet Bay became a significant hub for maritime trade. The bay's natural harbor offered safe anchorage for merchant vessels, facilitating commerce between Guernsey and mainland Europe. The period also saw the construction of defensive structures, including watchtowers and rudimentary fortifications, to protect against pirate raids and potential invasions. These developments bolstered the bay's importance as both a commercial and defensive asset.
The threat of Napoleonic invasions in the late 18th and early 19th centuries prompted significant military fortifications around Portelet Bay. Fort Grey, famously known as the 'Cup and Saucer,' was constructed on a tidal islet just off the bay. This Martello tower served as a formidable defensive structure, equipped with heavy artillery to ward off French incursions. The fort remains a prominent historical landmark, offering visitors insights into the bay's strategic military significance during the Napoleonic Wars.
Portelet Bay, like the rest of Guernsey, experienced the harsh realities of World War II during the German occupation from 1940 to 1945. The bay's strategic position saw it fortified with bunkers, gun emplacements, and other defensive structures as part of the Atlantic Wall. The remnants of these fortifications stand as a somber reminder of the island's wartime struggles and resilience. Today, these historical sites are preserved, allowing visitors to explore and reflect on this tumultuous period.
Following the liberation of Guernsey in 1945, Portelet Bay underwent a period of regeneration. The local community worked to rebuild and restore the bay area, transforming it into a tranquil and picturesque destination. The natural beauty of the bay, combined with its rich historical tapestry, began to attract tourists from around the world. Today, Portelet Bay is celebrated not only for its stunning scenery but also for the layers of history that have shaped its identity.

Portelet Bay Essentials

Portelet Bay is located on the southwestern coast of Guernsey, one of the Channel Islands. The nearest airport is Guernsey Airport, which offers direct flights from several UK cities and select European destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach Portelet Bay. The journey by taxi takes around 15 minutes, while the bus can take approximately 30 minutes depending on the route.
Guernsey has a well-structured public transportation system, including buses that connect various parts of the island. The local bus service is reliable and affordable, making it a convenient option for getting around. Taxis are also available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. For those who prefer more freedom, car rentals are available, but be aware that driving is on the left side of the road. Biking is another popular mode of transport, with several rental shops offering bicycles for hire.
The official currency in Guernsey is the Guernsey Pound (GGP), which is at par with the British Pound (GBP). Both currencies are accepted on the island. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available in St. Peter Port and other major areas.
Portelet Bay and Guernsey, in general, are considered very safe destinations for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions such as not leaving your belongings unattended and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. There are no specific neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. Guernsey has well-equipped medical facilities, including Princess Elizabeth Hospital located in St. Martin. Pharmacies are available throughout the island for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and practically, especially if you plan to hike or spend time outdoors. Smart-casual attire is generally acceptable in most restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. There are no specific religious restrictions, but modest dress is appreciated in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be punctual and have the exact fare if paying in cash. Don't eat or drink on buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning.' Handshakes are common, especially in more formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as Guernsey Gâche and fresh seafood. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Portelet Bay like a local, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon when the beach is less crowded. Engage with locals, who are known for their friendliness and willingness to share tips about the best spots. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local seafood at nearby restaurants. For a unique experience, take a coastal walk along the cliff paths offering stunning views of the bay and the surrounding area.

Portelet Bay: A Secluded Gem in Guernsey

Local tips in Portelet Bay