Places to see

5 things to discover at Moulin Huet

When you think of cliff-side beaches or coves the obvious suspects jump to mind. Fermain, Petit Bot and Saints Bay are all stunning in their own right, however there is one bay that has captured the imagination of many of Guernsey’s most famous visitors over the years- Moulin Huet. This quaint little bay, located just down the road from the Bella Luce Hotel is well worth the trek up and down the steep slopes to reach it. As the word ‘Moulin’ would suggest, there was once a mill in the area and the owner Mr Huet has given the bay the second part of its name. Unlike many other south coast bays there is a fair amount of parking, making it a great and accessible place to visit.

Once you have made the trip down you are greeted with stunning views across the bay to Petit Port, the Pea Stacks and the meandering south coast cliff paths. There is a special sort of tranquillity here, with the bay being relatively quiet and peaceful all year round. The sheltered areas, stunning views and relaxing background sound of running water down to the sea from where the mill once stood makes you feel a though you are a million miles away from civilisation. A true sense of having stepped back in time prevails, reminiscent of the days where a quieter and gentler pace of life ruled, much like the Guernsey that Mr Huet would probably recognise.

Here we list our top 5 reasons to visit Moulin Huet (although there are many more) and the best bits to discover.

1. The Tea Rooms

The lovely Moulin Huet Tea Rooms are an ideal spot to enjoy refreshments whilst out on a cliff walk or just to come and spend a few leisurely hours with friends. The quaint blue painted building and the log wall lined outdoor seating area are the perfect spots to indulge in some delicious homemade cake and a coffee. If you fancy something savoury then treat yourself to a freshly made local crab sandwich at probably the most reasonable price you’ll find anywhere on the island. All of this combined with the wonderfully friendly welcome you receive from the hosts makes this an essential visit for anyone, local or visitor. Oh and don’t forget to look out for the robin, who makes regular visits to watch what’s going on and of course help clear up the crumbs after everyone has left.

2. The Beach

The beach area of Moulin Huet is divided into two, each with an array of rocky outcrops, great for exploring, climbing and swimming off. The beach only has a small sandy area, making this cove better suited for exploring or swimming. The right hand side of the beach is a great spot to sit and enjoy the views with the peaceful sound of the running water that meets the sea from the surrounding streams and douits of the area. The two main rocks visible in the bay are called the Dog and Lion rocks, so called due to their resemblance to their namesakes and Cradle Rock, also known as ‘le bate des treis garces’. The legend behind it goes that one day three girls were sunbathing and failing to notice the rising tide, drowned. They were turned into the rock that now stands in the centre of the bay.

3. The History

The bay’s outstanding natural beauty, beautiful views and interesting rock formations made it popular with some of Guernsey’s most famous visitors, Victor Hugo and Pierre Auguste-Renoir. Victor Hugo was exiled here from his native France for 15 years from 1855 until 1870. He resided at Hauteville House and whilst resident here in Guernsey, was greatly inspired by the local people and landscapes. Every day he would venture from his home in St Peter Port walking around the surrounding areas particularly down to the cliff paths in St Martin where he would visit Moulin Huet, one of his favourite places on the island. Many of the island’s locations are referenced in his novels, poetry and art. The great Impressionist painter Renoir arrived in Guernsey in the autumn of 1883 and stayed for a month, spending a significant amount of time at Moulin Huet where he painted some of his most famous works. The beach provided the setting for one of his most well known paintings, ‘Children at the Beach at Guernsey’ and the area provided the inspiration for many others especially of the surrounding flora, fauna and views of the area.

4. The Walks

Moulin Huet is ideally placed to enjoy a cliff walk or a ramble through some of the most picturesque lanes on the island. The close proximity of countryside to coastline make this an interesting place to walk and admire such contrasting landscapes. This area of St Martin has a number of lovely green lanes which can only be explored on foot. Along the way you’ll discover quirky houses and cottages, pretty douit lined lanes and an abundance of wildflowers. Arguably the best way to discover the area if you are new to it is to take a turning or path you don’t know and see where it leads. Whichever way you go you won’t be disappointed.

5. The Views

The sweeping views of the bay are arguably some of the most beautiful on the island. Each different viewpoint offers a unique perspective over this lovely corner of the south coast. Look towards Jerbourg Point and from here you have a great view of the Pea Stacks also known as ‘Les Tas de pois d’Amont’. This area has a number of rock formations that have taken their name from local folklore and legend and the Pea Stacks are no different. They are made up of a row of 6 rocks. The third peak to the end is believed to look like a cowled monk and is often known as Le Petit Bon Homme Andreou which translates as ‘the good little man Andrew’. It is said that Andrew was one of the last pagan priests left on Guernsey and saw a ship in distress approaching the rocks. He prayed to his gods to calm the storm however the winds continued to grow stronger and the plight of the ship became more desperate. In fear for the sailors lives, he prayed to the Christian God asking him to save the men and in return he would convert to Christianity. The storm subdued and the men were saved. In return Andrew converted and was baptised and built a chapel on the site that is now St Martins primary school.