Things to see and do Herm

Norman chapel of the 11th century. It is dedicated to Saint Tugual, a saint whose history is not known for sure. Two myths coexist: according to one, he was the son of the king of England, according to the other he was a Welsh woman murdered by the Saxons. But perhaps it is simply Tugdual of Tréguier, a Breton who founded the city of Tréguier in the^5th century and became Saint Tugdual.

In the middle of the 11th century, the Duke of Normandy, Robert the Devil, ceded the island of Herm to the Benedictines of Mont Saint-Michel. They built a very simple chapel which has survived the passage of time.

The former tenants of the island, the Wood family, had it completely restored in 1949. The four colorful stained glass windows are post-war works commissioned by Peter and Jenny Wood. They depict Christ calming the storm (a work dated 1964), Christ calling his disciples, King Samuel in the Temple, and Noah and the animals before the Ark (the latter three dated 1984). Look closely to appreciate the details that represent landscapes and animals of the island. The work is truly superb.

St. Tugual's Chapel is listed in the Register of Ancient Monuments and Protected Buildings of the States of Guernsey. It also appears on a stamp printed in Guernsey in 1970. It was last restored about ten years ago, in 2011. During the work, two human skeletons were found: an adult skeleton and a child's skeleton, which would date from 4 to 5 centuries ago.

The remains of several dolmens are visible around the Petit Mont mound. Neolithic tombs, 3,500 to 4,000 years old, testify to the function of the island at that time. At the crossroads of Robert's Cross, elements of the gallery of the most important dolmen, which must have been 5 m long, remain. But the "Long Stone" fell prey to quarrymen in the 19th century. To the north, in the dunes of the Mouisonnière beach, stood a menhir visible from the sea: the " Pierre aux rats ". There is now only a masonry obelisk in its place.

This is the website of the society of islanders and affiliates who manage the island of Herm. It is an indispensable tool when planning a getaway to Herm. You can use it to get practical information about the island, to manage all your hotel reservations, to consult the list of all the restaurants and cafes on the island, to organize all your transfers to/from Herm, to find shopping addresses or to plan activities, but also to consult the weather reports, to watch the webcams, etc.

Shell Beach. Shell Beach" is Herm Island's most famous beach. Situated at the north-eastern end of the island, it is covered with shell debris accumulated with each rising tide. In summer and winter alike, it's naturally one of the most popular beaches for a stroll. And in summer, it's a delight for kayakers and paddleboarders. The natural rock pool is a delight for the little ones. There's also a kiosk to quench your thirst in summer.

Belvoir Beach. Next to Shell Beach, this so-called "Belvoir" beach is located in a small, well-protected bay which, in summer, can fill up very quickly with holidaymakers. It's also a good spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. From the beach, there's a lovely view of the island of Sark. There's also a small café.

Bear's Beach. Well sheltered thanks to a natural windbreak with its rocks, the delightful "Bear's Beach" is perfect for holidaymakers in search of sun (in summer) or beautiful walks sheltered from the wind (in winter). The beach is also a little secluded and will delight tourists looking to get off the beaten track. It's also an ideal beach from which to enjoy a superb view of the island of Guernsey, just across the road. A must for photographers. Last but not least, it's a well-known spot for local fishermen.

Fisherman's Beach. Accessible by steps alongside the Mermaid Tavern, this beach, known as "Fisherman's Beach", is perfect for exploring the natural pools that form in the rocks at low tide. An ideal spot for families with young children.

Harbour Beach. Close to the stores and the port, this aptly named "Harbour Beach" is well known among families for its easy access.

Hotel Beach. Hotel Beach" is - as the name suggests - right in front of the White House Hotel. And the harbour protects it from the wind, which is a nice touch. Yet in a corner of the island somewhat shunned by visitors, the beach offers a natural pool in the rocks and a breathtaking view of the islands of Guernsey and Jethou.

North Beach. Unlike the other beaches in the north of the island, this "north beach" features several natural rock pools. Beware of strong currents.

Oyster Point. The island's family secret. Located in the north of the island, it is sheltered and very isolated. Seagulls may be your only company. At low tide, bags of oysters form pools of seawater.