La Vallette Underground Military Museum
The La Vallette Underground Military Museum is an excellent venue to learn about Guernsey's military history, particularly World War I and World War II's German Occupation, and is one of the most beautiful historical sites in Guernsey. This museum is similarly concealed underground in one of the island's German-built tunnels, and if it weren't for the entrance, it would be nearly undetectable from the surface. This underground passage was utilized by the German army to store their U-boats and gasoline. The tunnels were converted into a museum in late 1987, and it took two years to complete.
Allied Forces planned to destroy all long-range radar equipment in the vicinity of northern France in late May 1944, in preparation for the invasion of France. The Freya radar station, which was located near this museum at Fort George, was particularly important because it covered the area to the west of the Normandy beaches. The RAF launched two attacks to disable the radar. There were numerous casualties, as well as the loss of eight Allied aircraft. Due to their substantial fortification, the Allied Forces decided to skip the Islands during the D-Day Landings.
Today, the museum houses a large collection of historical artifacts, as well as mementos and exhibits from the German occupation. The town terminus bus stop is within walking distance of the Underground Military Museum. If you're feeling bold, head across the road to the La Vallette Bathing Pools, which are perfect for a refreshing plunge in the sea while taking in the spectacular views of Castle Cornet. A broad variety of genuine military collectibles and literature are available for purchase by museum visitors.
