Sark: There is no Other Place Like it

Arriving at the harbor in the small English Channel Island of Sark is to begin a wonderful new experience. The boat trip over may have been rough but the anticipation overcame that. Leaving the boat and climbing up the stairs to the top of the harbor brought into view the sight of a number of tractors pulling wagons. We each hoisted our luggage, properly tagged as to where we would be staying, onto a wagon and began the short walk through the tunnel to the “bus,” which was a wagon with seats pulled by another tractor and we went along some beautiful green scenery up to The Avenue which was a short lane with grocery stores, restaurants, shops and the post office on either side. Climbing down from the bus, we each walked to where we would be staying. I stayed at the Vieux Clos, a lovely guest house some ways up the road. The first thing that struck me about Sark was the silence. There are no cars allowed on Sark so the sound of the birds can be heard so clearly. Taking short hikes was so pleasant when all one heard was birds singing. A walk to the church and the very old church yard was lovely. Viewing the fire engines and the doctor’s vehicle was interesting in that they were again mainly tractors pulling wagons. The municipal aspects of Sark emphasized the uniqueness of the island as the hours were limited and the constable was only available a few hours each week. For those who don’t particularly wish to walk, there are horse drawn carriages at the ready. The most exciting aspect of the trip was going out on a small fishing boat with the captain and several other passengers. We went around the whole island and close to Little Sark. There were many small beaches and caves to be seen and we were able to take the boat into one of the caves. Of course, there were many, many birds of various vatieties to be seen and to be photographed. Although a very strong wind came up and rocked the boat from side to side and it was somewhat scary, it did add to the overall experience of being out on the ocean.

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The Vieux Clos had lovely breakfasts which were sufficient to carry me through the day until dinner time. On the day I left, the tractor and wagon which had delivered my luggage there, came to return it to the harbor. Somewhat sadly, I walked down to catch the bus to the harbor and I began the trip over the water back to Guernsey from where I had started.

Because there are no street lamps or lights on Sark, the night sky is an absolute wonder to see. If you love quiet, beauty, lots of bird song and a most wonderful little island, then I highly recommend you start planning a trip to Sark. You will not be disappointed.