Bloomin' marvellous: there’s still time to make the most of Alderney this spring

By Caroline Gauvain

Ask any Alderney local for their favourite season, and the odds are they’ll say spring. 

Whether it’s our seabird neighbours nesting by the island’s shores or the vibrant wildflowers bursting into life over the cliffs, there’s something quite magical about this time of the year on the island.

From old traditions to modern events, there’s so much to enjoy. Here’s our guide to planning an Alderney break later this spring.

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Go wild for Alderney's Wildlife Week

Discover the wonders of Alderney’s natural history during our annual Wildlife Week. The festival, run by the Alderney Wildlife Trust, hosts a series of outdoor walks, talks and activities celebrating the island's unique biodiversity and habitats. 

From boat tours to see spectacular seabird colonies to food foraging treks, there’s a wild adventure for every nature lover! 

Wildlife Week takes place from 27th May - 2nd June 2024. 

View the full week’s events on the Alderney Wildlife website.

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Wonder at Alderney in full bloom

The island's annual flower festival ‘Bloomin’ Alderney’ returns this June for its 15th year.

More than 30 privately-owned gardens will open their gates, offering visitors the chance to admire some of Alderney’s finest landscaping and floral displays.

If you’re visiting between 2nd - 8th June, just look out for the ‘Bloomin’ Alderney' Garden Open signs for more information.

Cultural exchange 

Alderney has a twin! Just across the water in France is a town called Beaumont-Hague. Since 1989, we’ve taken turns hosting an event to celebrate our cultures together.

Alderney is hosting this year’s weekend festival, with cultural exchange events and activities designed to build the relationship between our two communities - and to have some fun!

Follow the local Facebook group to learn more about this year’s festival programme.

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Activities away from the festivities 

There’s no place like Alderney to unwind, recharge and reconnect with nature - no matter what the season is.

The island’s stunning coastal paths and quiet golden beaches are perfect to relax and switch off from the wider world - far away from noisy crowds and frustrating traffic jams.

Hit the footpaths

With miles of walking trails, Alderney has plenty of options, from gentle strolls to rocky cliff paths. Our walking guides are an easy way to discover routes, with time estimates and sites of interest for each walk.

If you’re feeling really adventurous, just hit the road out of St Anne and see where you end up. You’ll never be too far from a signpost in Alderney!

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Two-wheeled touring

Quiet roads and endless scenic views make cycling around Alderney a real joy. A whistle-stop tour of the island can be done in half a day. But with so many bays and historic sites to explore along the way, a leisurely day trip on two-wheels will be jam-packed with things to do. 

Hiring standard or electric bikes is easy, with a few outlets in St Anne. At busier times such as weekends, do check ahead about their availability. 

If you wish to bring your own bike, ask your boat or airline operator about the options they have.

Take to the water

For a different view of the island, head out to sea from one of the many picturesque bays. Many locals love to sea-swim to improve their wellbeing - even if the temperature is on the cooler side!

Whether it's a way to kick-start the day, cool off at noon or unwind in the evening, enjoying Alderney’s crystal clear waters is a must if you get a chance!

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Booking your Alderney escape this spring

If you’re interested in booking a weekend break, mid-week trip or a longer holiday to Alderney this spring, there’s still time - but you’d better hurry!

Find all the accommodation options here, book flights here or learn more about getting here by boat

See you this spring!