Think all the quiet charm of Jersey with fewer of the trappings of mass tourism, and what you have is the tranquil island of Guernsey. Indeed, ’tranquil’, in this case, really does mean bucolic: wooded valleys, sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean, botanical gardens, secret coves and cliff-top walks are amongst the island gems that will guarantee that you relax. And this is all available with the added bonus that Guernsey is incredibly child-friendly; perfect news to anyone frustratingly trying to find the ideal family holiday location. Safe beaches with gorgeously blue water await you.

For those who feel that they might tire of beach-related pursuits, Guernsey has wonderful facilities for activities such as cycling and golf. It also has oodles of history. As far back as the 11th century, the Channel Islands (les Isles Normandes), of which Guernsey is one, were part of the Duchy of Normandy. When William, Duke of Normandy, conquered England, the Channel Islands were incorporated into the combined realm of both England and Normandy. King John of England lost mainland Normandy to the French 140 years later but the Channel Islands stayed loyal to England.

The French made many subsequent attempts, all of which were repelled, over the ensuing centuries to capture the islands. The Germans were more successful, albeit briefly, during WWII, when much of the island’s population was evacuated to England. But, today, Guernsey enjoys a large degree of internal self-government, having developed its own legal and political institutions, and is also responsible for the government of neighbouring Alderney.

Such history is apparent all around Guernsey. Evidence of Neolithic man is everywhere, in burial chambers and defensive earth works, long excavated and unveiled. Fortifications, testament to Guernsey’s many attempts throughout history to repel invasion, can be seen in edifices like Castle Cornet, now housing an excellent museum. More modern history has, sadly, left its mark in WWII bulwarks and buttresses.

Guernsey’s sea air encourages a hearty appetite, and the island’s fertile sea and soil provides the island’s cuisine with a host of ingredients, from seafood to locally-grown vegetables. Whether you decide to eat in Guernsey’s gourmet restaurants or simply at a beach kiosk, you will be very well catered for.

63.1 sq km (24.3 sq miles).

65,228 (2005).

1,033.7 per sq km.

St Peter Port.

Dependency of the British Crown. Although Guernsey is British, its history and constitution mean that it is not part of the United Kingdom or the European Union. Internally, Guernsey is self governing with its own parliament (the States of Guernsey) and its own laws. Only foreign affairs and defence are handled by the UK, although there are arrangements by which Guernsey laws are approved by the crown. No political parties are represented at Guernsey elections. Internal affairs are governed by the island’s parliament, the States of Deliberation.

English is the official language. Norman patois is spoken in some parishes.

Church of England, Presbyterian, Baptist, Congregational and Methodist.

GMT (GMT + 1 from the last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).

Handshaking is the customary form of greeting and normal social courtesies should be observed when visiting someone’s home. It is not usual to start eating until everyone is served. If invited to someone’s home, a small present such as flowers or chocolates is appreciated. Casual wear is acceptable in most places. Smoking is banned in enclosed public places.

240 volts AC, 50Hz. Three-pin plugs in use.

Bailiff Geoffrey Rowland since 2005.

HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Lieutenant-Governor Vice-Admiral Sir Fabian Malbon since 2005.