A quaint British isle has taken the extraordinary step of banning both bicycles and cars in a bid to preserve its serenity and old-world charm.
The tiny island of Herm, a jewel in the Channel Islands, boasts of its peaceful existence characterised by car-free paths and Caribbean-like beaches and turquoise waters.
The island’s official website states: “Herm Island is a magical place. Every inch of the island is steeped in history and mystery.”
The ban on motor vehicles and bicycles is essential to maintaining the island’s quietude.
Islanders believe that the hum of engines and the ringing of bicycle bells would disrupt the serene atmosphere they cherish.
Visitors willing to navigate multiple ferry crossings from England’s south coast, despite Herm’s proximity at only 80 miles away, will discover a surprisingly varied landscape.
At Herm’s northern tip lie pristine beaches and expansive grasslands, which were once roamed by woolly mammoths.
This area also has a history of smugglers and pirates, with the latter being executed as a stark deterrent to the small local population.
On the eastern side, Herm’s main beaches stretch out with their fine white sands and crystal-clear waters.
During summer, beach cafes offer light bites and sandwiches, along with locally made ice cream for those enjoying the sun-kissed shores.
The picturesque south coast boasts towering cliffs, serpentine paths adorned with flowers, and waves crashing into a frothy white spectacle.
Atop the hill in Manor Village, holiday cottages and log cabins offer a cosy retreat.
A short stroll down the path reveals the Seagull campsite, an idyllic location to set up camp for the weekend with views stretching towards Sark.
Visitors are likely to depart with a deep appreciation for Herm, thanks to the close-knit nature of its community.
The Wood family, who managed the island since 1949, laid down many of its longstanding traditions, with the Starboard Settlement continuing their stewardship since 2008.
Herm isn’t just a scenic escape, it’s also a wildlife sanctuary, boasting Europe’s most southerly puffin colony, dolphins, occasional seals, and woodlands that transform into a sea of violet each spring as bluebells flourish.
If the weather permits, hiring a paddleboard or kayak is an excellent way to explore the island and its puffin colony. On land, archery and active quizzes that send you around the island in search of clues are available.
To reach the island, one must take a 20-minute boat ride from St Peter Port on Guernsey.
Condor Ferries provides two ferry routes between the UK and Guernsey, sailing from Poole to Guernsey and Portsmouth to Guernsey.
The quickest route is from Poole, taking three hours, while the journey from Portsmouth takes seven hours on the Commodore Clipper.