If you are looking for a place to pause, reset and relax, then Alderney is the island for you. Alderney is the northern of the Channel Islands, known for it beautiful sandy beaches, cliff paths and wildlife and often described as the hidden gem of the Channel Islands. The island of Alderney is somewhere we have wanted to visit for so long, having visited the islands of Guernsey in our campervan for a few years now. This year we stayed in our favourite campervan campsite for the first part of our trip -(read our full review of Beauicette Marina here.) before island hopping from Guernsey and heading to the quiet and peaceful island of Alderney.
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Island hopping around the Islands of Guernsey
If you are heading to the Islands of Guernsey, there is so much to do for families. then you really have to island hop and visit all the beautiful islands. Each of the five Islands of Guernsey have their own history and charm and all with easy access by boat or plane.
We have previously visited the island of Herm and Sark, and this was they year we were finally heading to Alderney.
Alderney
Alderney is the second largest islands and is home to beautiful white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, historical sites and Forts, and so much incredible wildlife. There are plenty of amazing restaurants on the islands, an award winning museum, and incredible accommodation. I will come to the Blonde Hedgehog later!
Our trip didn’t quite go to plan, as the weather had other ideas. With a storm rolling in we had to cut our trip short and head back to Guernsey much sooner than planned. We did however get the chance to experience the beautiful island of Alderney if only for a very short time. I can honestly say it left us wanting so much more…. I can’t quite describe the feeling of peace and tranquility the island seems to bring.
Travelling to Alderney from Guernsey
Alderney Ferry Services provide regular crossings from St Peter Port to Alderney. The Crossing takes around one and a half hours and there are refreshments available during the crossing. Dogs are also allowed on the boat. There are daily flights from Guernsey to Alderney provided by Aurigny Air Services and the flight takes around 20 minutes.
Alderney accommodation
There are so many places to stay in Alderney. Choose from a 4-star hotel to self-catering, a beach-side camping to a small friendly guest house. You can even stay in a converted fort. There is something for everyone and you really can have your own unique stay on Alderney.
We stayed in the incredible Blonde Hedgehog a luxury boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Saint Anne.
The Blonde Hedgehog
The Blonde Hedgehog is a boutique hotel situated in the quiet stoned High Street in the centre of St Anne. The beautiful bedrooms are spread between The Blonde Hedgehog and Clarence House. We stayed in The Old Corner House which a beautiful three-bedroom cottage that is positioned just across the street from the hotel, and the Old Corner House is absolutely perfect for families or groups. It is dog friendly too. A short five-minute stroll away, La Frette Farm offers an exclusive four-bedroom retreat.
You can Read our full review here.
The Island of Alderney things to do
For us, Alderney was a place we wanted to visit to pause and reset, and enjoy the simple things in life. IF you are looking for an active break – There are so many wonderful things to in Alderney.
Seabirds Boat Trip with Alderney Wildlife Trust
Alderney has one of the most unique coastlines of any British Isles, CRAMMED with seabirds including the much loved Puffin and Gannets. We missed the puffins as they are around from March until July normally, but we did get to sea the Gannets. You can climb about the Sula of Braye (the Alderney Wildlife Trust’s workboat) and spend a great couple of hours on the water spotting the Gannets, and wildlife including cheeky seals.
Seabirds Round Island trip Price: £38 adults, £30 child & 20% discount to AWT members
Kayak and Paddle board hire
Hire a paddleboard or kayak and explore Braye Bay. You will be given a basic introduction and all paddles and buoyancy aids are provided. You will need to book in advance and AWT members get 20% off
Hire is subject to strict terms and conditions, and you can meet in front of the Braye Beach Hotel, (time to be decided when booking is made)
Price is £40 per two-person Kayak / £30 per single person kayak or paddle board, for a 4hr hire between 09:30am and 2pm.
Head to the beach
The beaches on Alderney are just incredibly beautiful, with crystal clear waters and completely uncrowded. We were only on the island a short time, but loved the beaches.
Braye beach, is just a few minutes from the town and harbour and is a popular beach. It has beautiful white sands – perfect for making sandcastles and the clear calm waters which are sheltered by the breakwater therefore considered safe to paddle or swim.
Saye beach, is adjacent to the campsite on the North west coast of the island. It has incredibly crystal clear blue waters perfect for swimming We were visiting in August and had the beach to ourselves – just wonderful.
Adrift Sauna
I absolutely had this on my list for things to do whilst I was in Alderney, but unfortunately we didn’t get the chance. IF you are visiting the island you can get to unwind and recharge, all year round in Adrift’s authentic wood-fired Sauna. Head to Braye or Corblets and make the most of a cold water swim followed by a sauna.
Mannez Lighthouse
Alderney is the Channel Island nearer to the French coast, and surrounded by two strong currents: the Swinge and the Alderney Race. Located at the eastern end, Mannez Lighthouse has watched over sailors since 1912.
Shopping in Adlerney
During our stay we managed to grab an hour and wander the quaint cobbled Victoria Street with a post office, newsagent, butcher, hardware store and a deli, as well as boutiques and a souvenir shop. With colourful bunting dancing in the wind it is a beautiful place for a leisurely stroll and a wander around the shops. You can also find ‘honesty boxes’ dotted around the island selling anything from fruit and vegetables to flowers and eggs.
Visiting Alderney with a dog
Alderney welcomes furry friends with open arms. The boat trip from Guernsey to Alderney is dog friendly, and the Old Corner House welcomes dogs. They even left us a little welcome pack for our dogs, including dog bowls, a ball and chews.
The Island has plenty of footpaths and trails to explore, dog-friendly pubs, restaurants and accommodation. So do not hesitate to bring your dog with you.
Alderney Island for families
Our visit was short and sweet but it left us wanting to return next year. We just loved the beautiful laid back vibe, stunning beaches and crystal clear waters. The people we met were just wonderfully friendly and welcoming. Stay at the stunningly beautiful Blonde Hedgehog – you won’t be disappointed.
Alderney – When can we come back ?
For more information head over to Visit Guernsey here
Disclosure: Thank you to Visit Guernsey for organising our visit to Alderney Island as part of a press trip. This article contains affiliate links. Should you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, but I receive a small commission.