Ultimate Herm Travel Guide

Imagine stepping onto an island where time seems to have stood still, where the rhythm of life slows down, and the natural beauty of the land and sea take centre stage. Welcome to Herm, the smallest of the Channel Islands!

This mesmerising destination is barely a dot on the map (between the UK and France), yet it promises an unforgettable escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s truly one of the most incredible places in Europe and an essential stop on any Channel Islands adventure.

Herm Island Things To Do

Located just three miles from the island of Guernsey, Herm is a paradise of unspoiled beauty and tranquility.

A trip to Herm is like stepping back in time to an Agatha Christie novel! With no cars, no streetlights, and a small population of just 60 people, Herm provides a rare escape from the modern world.

The island is easily accessible by ferry from Guernsey, and the short 20-minute boat ride transports you to a haven of unspoilt countryside, tropical beaches, otherworldly sunsets, and if you’re lucky like me, you’ll spot dolphins and puffins! 

Discover Herm Beaches

Herm’s beaches are undoubtedly the island’s main draw, boasting some of the best beaches in Europe.

The most famous is Shell Beach, a pristine stretch of soft white sand that wraps around the island’s northeastern coast. This beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling. The crystal-clear turquoise waters teem with marine life, making it an excellent spot for exploring the underwater world, all without being disturbed by crowds of people.

Belvoir Bay, on the other hand, is a secluded cove with a sheltered sandy beach. It is the perfect place for a peaceful day out during your Herm visit.

Other Herm beaches worth exploring include Fisherman’s Beach, which offers a rustic charm, and the rocky beauty of Oyster Point, both of which are ideal for rock pooling and wildlife watching.

Explore Herm on Foot

Herm is a walker’s paradise, with a network of well-maintained paths crisscrossing the island.

The picturesque coastal walk takes you along the rugged cliffs, offering spectacular views over the neighbouring islands of Sark, Jethou, and even France on a clear day.

The inland paths meander through lush meadows and woodland, providing a chance to spot the island’s diverse wildlife, including rabbits, puffins, and seals.

Discover Herm’s Fascinating Heritage

For history enthusiasts, Herm is the place to be. If you do a Guided Herm Tour, you’ll be transported back in time to an island steeped in history, and hear stories of the island’s legends, murders and ghostly sightings. Grisly tales come to life as Herm Island’s history and mysteries unfold before you!

With your guide, you’ll hear more about the people who lived and worked on this tiny island, finding fame, seeking fortune, and in some cases suffering financial ruin.

From neolithic nomads to monks and missionaries, seafaring smugglers and Prussian princes, the history of Herm Island is sure to entertain!

Throughout the walk you’ll come to understand more about how all the inhabitants of Herm helped to shape and structure the unique island into what it is today.

Herm Adventure Tours

Outdoor Guernsey runs unmissable activities in Herm, from Puffin Patrols by kayak to archery and RIB tours, just to name a few.

Whether you’re looking to get close to nature or for a day of adventure you will find plenty of opportunities with them.

There is really something for everyone to do on this little slice of paradise.

Where to Stay on Herm

The legendary White House Hotel is actually the only hotel on the entire island of Herm, but after staying here for 10 days, I can assure you it is paradise on earth!

Never have I been anywhere that encourages you to truly unwind more than this Herm hotel. You won’t find televisions, clocks or telephones here, so you really have no choice but to totally unwind! Even hotel events such as weddings finish playing music by 10.45pm at the very latest.

Instead of Netflix, you’re really encouraged to enjoy tea or cocktails by the swimming pool, play a game of croquet or tennis, enjoy an aperitif in the Monk’s Bar or choose a sofa in a cosy lounge and curl up in front of the fire with a coffee and a good book.

For me, this is one of the best hotels in Europe. This is not even an ad, I just have genuinely never felt more relaxed after staying anywhere, so truly couldn’t recommend this place enough.

White House Hotel also offers holiday cottages allowing you to sample island life while still giving you the freedom to come and go as you please.

The starting rate for a Sea View Cottage Room at the White House Hotel is from £145 for two people, B&B. Plus the hotel has dog-friendly rooms so your fur babies can enjoy a blissful Herm holiday too!

Alternatively you can camp on Herm Island in one of their modern, well-equipped family size tents or choose to pitch your own tent. The campsite boasts stunning views across to Sark and the French coast.

Dining on Herm

Despite its small size, Herm offers a variety of dining options, ranging from the casual beach kiosk at Shell Beach to the elegant Conservatory Restaurant at the White House Hotel.

Local seafood is a staple, and a must-try dish is the famous Herm crab, served fresh from the island’s waters!

Best Time to Visit Herm?

Herm boasts a mild and temperate maritime climate throughout the year, thanks to its location in the English Channel. Its weather is generally moderate, with winters being relatively mild and summers pleasantly warm.

The best time to visit Herm is between late spring and early autumn, particularly from May to September, when the weather is most favourable for outdoor activities. During this period, temperatures usually range between 16°C and 22°C, offering you the opportunity to explore the island’s captivating beauty under clear blue skies and gentle sea breezes!

Conclusion

Herm is a captivating destination that allows you to step back in time and embrace the simple pleasures of life. Whether you are looking to unwind on pristine beaches, explore the island’s rich history, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet, Herm is the perfect retreat. It is undoubtedly one of the most untouched and unique places in Europe, and a trip to the Channel Islands would simply be incomplete without experiencing the beauty of this hidden gem.

Best Global Travel Insurance

If you are planning on heading to Herm, one thing that is essential for everybody is good travel insurance. Accidents can happen anywhere and at anytime and unexpected hospital bills will no doubt spoil your trip. Remove the stress from your next adventure and get covered for the worst!

SafetyWing Insurance provides reliable travel insurance that will keep you covered for any level of adventure in Herm. You can get your quote before you leave on your trip here:

Sharing is caring!

If you found my Herm Travel Guide useful, please share this article with your family and friends to show them how stunning Herm is! I find it such a shame that so many travellers overlook this stunning corner of the world. 

Also, if you have any questions about visiting Herm please feel free to ask me in the comments below!

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