
Spend time in Guernsey, the second-largest of the Channel Islands, and you’ll soon find yourself slowing down. Quite literally, because the maximum speed limit on the narrow country lanes is just 35mph (and when I say narrow, I mean it’s perfectly normal practice to mount the pavement to pass a car coming in the opposite direction). But there’s still plenty of opportunity to get your heart-pumping – perhaps with coastal hikes along granite cliffs, kayaking in secluded coves or a surf lesson or two.
The island is one of the few places in the world without major fast-food chains, which is what makes people feel they are stepping back in time. It encourages you to enjoy crab sandwiches from beachside cafes, or leisurely lunches on sunny restaurant terraces.