My 2 days on Sark started with zero expectations. That’s because I knew nothing about the island until I set foot on it.
And wow, it completely blew me away.
Tiny, peaceful and full of surprises, this island escape is like stepping into a slower, quieter world.
With just 500 residents, one school and one church, everyone knows everyone. And it all feels charming. No cars and no crowds. All you have are winding lanes, stunning coastline and a sense of calm.
You could pop over for a day trip, but to really experience Sark to its fullest, give yourself two days.
Over this 2-day itinerary, you’ll see why Sark is the perfect island to unplug and explore at your own pace.
If you’re planning island hopping in the Channel, check out my guide to things to do in Guernsey too.
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| Booked It, Loved It: My Sark Picks Where To Stay: Stocks Hotel or La Moinerie Village Highlights in Guernsey: Half-Day Shore Excursion and Coastal Highlights Tour Travel Insurance: Safety Wing |
Getting There
So you’ve decided to get yourself over to Sark. Good choice. But how do you get there?
The easiest way to reach Sark is via ferry from Guernsey. Ferries leave from St Peter Port and the journey takes about 50 minutes.
There are a handful of sailings each day, but always check the Isle of Sark Shipping website first – ferries can get cancelled if the weather turns.
Getting Around Sark
No cars here – just winding lanes and open spaces. The best way to explore is by foot, horse-drawn carriage or bike.
Horse Carriage Rides:
There are plenty of carriages along The Avenue, and the guides share a fascinating history of the island while you sit back and relax.
We had a hilarious experience in the pouring rain – but it didn’t dampen our spirits at all.
Just be prepared with brollies, raincoats and warm clothes.
Cycling:
Avenue Cycles rents bikes and electric bikes.
It’s a brilliant way to zip between viewpoints, beaches and coves.
If you’re heading to Little Sark via La Coupee, you’ll need to manually wheel your bike across the narrow granite causeway before hopping back on.
It’s a small challenge for breathtaking views.
Walking:
You can also walk everywhere if you fancy.
The paths are a mix of gravel, trails and little country lanes, so good trainers or trekking boots are a must.
Every turn brings a view or a hidden gem – it’s proper island exploring.
Stay at Stocks Hotel
Stocks Hotel is a proper gem and my top pick for a stay on Sark.
This 23-bedroom country house sits right in the heart of the island and has been welcoming guests since 1895.
It’s steeped in Sark history. It’s always been family-owned and run, which means it still has that personal feel you just don’t get in chain hotels.
I’m a fan of independent hotels and no matter where you stay on Sark, you’ll get just that.
The rooms are cosy, comfy and full of character.
Breakfast is a treat with a mix of hot and cold options, fresh pastries, local fruit and a selection of teas and coffees. Make sure you fuel up ahead of a day of exploring.
The permaculture garden is a highlight. Basically, everything they grow – herbs, veggies and seasonal produce – goes straight into the hotel meals.
We even spotted some of the ingredients used in our evening dinner – fresh, local and just delicious.
Next to the pool is the oldest mulberry tree in the British Isles.
And the gardens have a traditional granite cider press, keeping the Sark heritage alive.
Staying at Stocks isn’t just about a comfy bed – it’s a full-on Sark experience.
So let’s get into my ultimate guide packed with things to do during your 2 days on Sark.
Day 1
When we arrived, a tractor and cart collected our bags from the ferry and took them straight to our hotel.
This is great if you just want to head out to explore straight away.
Toast Rack:
You’ll spot the famous Toast Rack down at the harbour — a little open-sided cart that takes you up the hill into Sark.
You could walk, but for about £1.80 it’s a fun, quirky way to start your island adventure.
Explore The Avenue:
Wander the main street, where you’ll find charming shops, galleries and little cafes.
This is also where you can hire bikes from Avenue Cycles or arrange horse carriage tours.
Keep an eye out for the gold postbox – it was painted to celebrate Guernsey Olympian Helen Glover’s gold medal win. It’s a fun little piece of local pride right outside the post office.
Caragh Chocolate Shop:
Stop at Caragh Chocolate Shop.
It’s a family-run chocolate kitchen where everything is handmade on-site – from truffles to bars.
You can watch them working their magic while you browse the shop.
There’s also a lovely tea garden outside, perfect for a sweet pit stop and a little caffeine hit before more exploring.
Definitely treat yourself – the handmade chocolates are irresistible.
La Coupee:
Before you reach the actual walkway of La Coupee, take a left at the gate marked ‘Sheer Drop.’
Trust me, this is hands down the best view on the island – seriously, one of the most jaw-dropping views I’ve ever seen.
The cliffs drop dramatically beneath you – so be careful not to get too close to the edge. The waves crash far below and the whole of Little Sark stretches out in front of you.
It can get very windy here, so hold onto your hat (and your camera!). But that wind just adds to the drama.
Spend a few minutes soaking it all in. Photos don’t do it justice; you’ve got to feel it in person.
If you’re feeling brave, take the steps down to the beach. But there are a lot of them and the climb back up isn’t easy!
Little Sark:
Once you’ve admired the view, continue onto Little Sark via La Coupee.
If you’re cycling, you’ll need to manually wheel your bike across the causeway before hopping back on the other side.
Little Sark is a wild, rugged playground.
The coastline here is dramatic, with hidden coves and cliff walks that feel completely untouched.
Every turn has a new angle for photos or just a moment to pause and appreciate the quiet.
Venus Pool:
Just beyond La Coupee, you’ll find Venus Pool – a natural swimming spot on Little Sark.
Check the tide before heading out; it’s perfect for a dip or just soaking up the rugged scenery.
The walk down is steep and rocky, so make sure you’ve got sturdy shoes or trainers – worth it for the view and the swim.
Lunch:
Enjoy lunch at Old Hall Bistro – cosy, with simple but fresh seasonal dishes.
I went for the chicken sandwich with garlic mayo and it was absolutely delicious. One of my friends had the kimchi and cheese toastie and declared it a must-try.
There’s also a selection of fresh seafood on the menu, but don’t be surprised if some items aren’t available.
It depends on what’s in season and what the local fishermen have caught that day.
Gouliot Headland & Gouliot Caves:
Continue along the rugged coastline to Gouliot Headland.
Dramatic cliffs, waves crashing below – it’s classic Sark.
The Gouliot Caves are tucked into the cliffs, but you can only explore them safely at low tide.
We weren’t there at the right time, and tried to come back later, but it never worked out. Oh well – next time! Definitely saving that for a return trip.
Sark Henge:
Next, swing by Sark Henge.
It’s a quirky little Stonehenge-inspired circle – small, perfectly symmetrical and a fun spot for a few photos or just a quiet pause.
Dinner:
For dinner, head to Hugo’s Bar & Bistro in Dixcart Valley.
Fresh Sark seafood, local beef and pork and island-grown veg make it a proper island feast.
Everything tastes that bit better after a day of exploring.
Day 2
Breakfast:
Let’s continue our 2 days on Sark by fuelling up with a fresh, hearty breakfast at Stocks Hotel.
Treat yourself to a full English, or grab some pastries and local fruit – everything you need to kickstart a full day on the island.
Cycle or Walk to Viewpoints:
Pick up a bike from Avenue Cycles or simply walk around the island.
Wear decent trainers or boots. Some paths are narrow, uneven and a little wild, but totally worth it.
L’Eperquerie Common: Wide-open spaces, peaceful paths and endless views. A perfect spot to pause, catch your breath and just soak it all in.
Window in the Rock: One of those cliff-side gems. Peer through the rock opening and let the Atlantic take your breath away.
Hog’s Back: Walk or cycle along this ridge for dramatic views of the north coast. Port De Moulin Woods and Port à la Jument are nearby – stunning spots for a wander or a photo stop.
Tip: There are benches dotted around most viewpoints and pretty spots, so you can sit, rest and just admire the scenery.
Lunch:
Stop at Time & Tide on The Avenue for a relaxed lunch. Fresh, local ingredients, hearty island-style dishes – think fresh fish, seasonal veg, simple but full of flavour.
Horse Carriage Option:
Not up for walking or cycling? Book a horse carriage tour.
The guides share cracking stories about the island, its families and hidden spots you’d probably miss on your own.
We had a fun ride in the rain – brollies up, raincoats on – and the drizzle didn’t dampen our spirits.
Evening:
Finish your 2 days on Sark with dinner at Stocks Bistro at Stocks Hotel.
Seasonal, local ingredients served with care – it’s the perfect end to a proper Sark escape.
After dinner, cosy up in Smuggler’s Bar for a much-earned drink or two. Try some of the local whiskies.
The island stocks an impressive selection, with smooth single malts and small-batch finds that give you a real taste of Sark.
Dark Sky Island:
Sark is officially a Dark Sky Island, first named in 2011.
That means minimal light pollution and a sky full of stars, planets and even the Milky Way.
If you want the ultimate stargazing experience, head to the Sark Observatory, where you can get a closer look at the night sky through their telescopes.
Grab a blanket, step outside and marvel at the galaxy above – unforgettable.
Extra Things to Do
Unfortunately I didn’t get to do the following things because I only had 2 days on Sark. But hey, that’s what return visits are for!
So if you’ve got a bit more time on the island, there’s plenty more to keep you busy.
Boating, kayaking, swimming and snorkelling are all brilliant ways to enjoy Sark from the water.
I’ve only covered a handful of viewpoints in this itinerary, but there are loads more walking trails to discover hidden corners and scenic spots.
Keep your eyes peeled for The Lighthouse, Manlet Tower and the Buddhist Carving – all little treasures along the paths.
And another great viewpoint is Dixcart Valley, offering jaw-dropping scenery.
If you’re into attractions, don’t miss La Seigneurie Gardens for a peaceful walk.
Check out the War-Time Exhibition for a bit of island history and head to Sark Art Gallery to see local creativity up close.
Why You’ll Love Sark
I fell for Sark – and you will too.
Tiny, tranquil and full of hidden gems. Dramatic cliffs, winding lanes and viewpoints that stop you in your tracks.
It’s honestly the perfect escape – and just a chance to switch off.
It’s the kind of place you’ll leave thinking, ‘I’ll be back.’
If you’re planning to explore more of the Channel Islands, my Guernsey itinerary is the perfect next read.
