Cliff paths and a harbour town in the Channel
Guernsey, a self-governing Crown Dependency near the coast of Normandy, combines British and French influences. Its capital, St Peter Port, climbs steeply from the harbour, and Castle Cornet guards its entrance. Victor Hugo finished Les Misérables during his exile here, and his house, Hauteville House, is preserved with his eccentric decoration. The south coast has dramatic cliff paths, while the west has wide sandy bays. Remains of German fortifications recall the occupation of the Second World War. Ferries run to the smaller islands of Herm and Sark.