Wednesday 4th March 2015. 9/52. St Peter Port to Icart

It was a beautiful morning for the start of my walk today and I was fortunate to have my walking colleague Clive P along with me, despite the fact he was just recovering from a bad cold.

I knew the first part to Fermain Bay would be quite muddy in places, having been along there only last Sunday, and it was probably due to this that we met few fellow walkers on the route, despite the fact that the sunshine was streaming through the trees and the exposed views were beautiful, showing off the blue of the sea. It was very quiet at Fermain, despite the cafe being open, and the manager there was taking the opportunity to do some DIY. Fermain Bay with the tide out, seen from the elevated viewing positions, is really one of the best sights on the east side of the island, and we make no apology for using the same picture 2 posts running!

The morning weather was just getting better and better, and with the protection from the wind it really was glorious walking from Fermain through to St Martin’s Point. The Pine Forest, though, is sadly looking somewhat weather beaten with numerous trees either just lying there where they have fallen or leaning in either direction, ready to fall. St Martin’s Point gives you a wide panoramic view but then, of course, you have to make the trek up the 225 steps – or was that 215? – and by the time I reached the top I was puffing and blowing! No kiosk was open at Jerbourg, but at least the toilet facilities were open there.

On and around by the Peastacks and the German bunker and then around to the set of steps looking directly across to Moulin Huet and downwards to the expansive sandy beach at Petit Port. I sincerely hope the States of Guernsey find the money to stabilise the rock face by the steps here, as to be able to get down to a beach like this is a joy for everyone.

The sun continued to shine as we made our way around to Moulin Huet, taking the steeper path down to the Bay. We then had to climb the steep steps back out and on to the top near to the now empty Bon Port Hotel; there is a great panoramic view from this point. Onwards then to Saints Bay, before climbing out on the opposite side. It was good to look back at the viewing point near the top as we were able to see the proposed cliff path down to Saints Bay which the St Martin’s Douzaine are looking to re-open. There is a very popular circular route for walkers and runners alike here which takes you around the headland to Icart, down the road to Saints Bay Hotel and back onto the cliff path.

Although our leg of this walk finished at Icart, we both still had to continue walking through the country lanes roads to get back to our respective homes, but it really had been very enjoyable in the favourable weather conditions.