Today Guernsey is a magnet for beach and watersports enthusiasts. The island has 27 fine beaches varying from rocky coves in the south to long sandy beaches on the west coast (from here the sunsets over the Atlantic are superb). Portelet, L’Eree, Port Soif and Pembroke beaches are considered among the best in Britain. Away from the sea (but not too far away, because it is difficult to ignore the ocean on this tiny island) there are several attractions to explore, particularly in the historic capital, St Peter Port. This is the oldest settlement in the Channel Islands, its patchwork of roofs rising from the harbour topping Roman arches, coloured granite buildings and narrow medieval alleyways.