THE GUERNSEY RETREAT
EXPERIENCE THE HERITAGE OF BASKET MAKING AND ORMERING IN THE TRADITIONAL GUERNSEY WAY
17 - 22 February 2027
For five days, immerse yourself in the heritage of basket making and foraging for ormers in the traditional Guernsey way.
In the company of Claire and her Dad, Max, from whom she learned the craft, you will be tutored through three days of traditional Guernsey ‘ponier à cou’ making.
On the full moon at a deep spring tide on day four, take part in a guided ormering excursion on Guernsey’s stunning coastline, foraging for this local shellfish delicacy to fill your new baskets.
Then, take a day to explore the island before you’re treated to a meal of our collected ormers cooked in the traditional way by the Gaudion family over the generations.
£1,195 per person, 10 spaces available
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Basketry
Beginning at Les Câches Farm - the beautifully restored National Trust of Guernsey farmhouse with outbuildings dating from the 15th century - for three days of basket making led by Claire and Max Gaudion
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Ormering Tide
At full moon and a deep spring tide, take your new basket foraging for ormers along Guernsey’s stunning coatline
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Local sights
Spend a day visiting some of the islands most stunning views, coastal paths and locals favourites
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Evening gathering
At Les Câches Farmhouse for a delicious ormer feast, cooked in the traditional way, with compliments of the Gaudion family
THE BASKET MAKING
Our first three days will be enjoyed at Les Câches Farm - a beautifully restored National Trust of Guernsey farmhouse with outbuildings dating from the 15th century. You will make a traditional ponier à cou. Starting with making the wire frame, followed by the willow weaving process and learning how to splice the rope shoulder strap. Claire and Max will teach you every step.
All materials and tools will be provided.
Delicious refreshments including teas, coffees and lunch will be provided.
Please note that making a ponier à cou involves working with wood, wire, willow, a selection of tools and strong hands. That said, it is suitable for beginners or those with willow experience; Claire will tailor the teaching to suit you.
FORAGING FOR ORMERS
Foraging for ormers will begin at low tide - with your newly made basket - on this auspicious day, when the moon is at its fullest and the spring tide is at its deepest. A rare occurrence, these special tides are the only time when locals are permitted to gather ormers.
Ormering takes a little stamina. We’ll walk down to the edge of the water and turn stones on the shoreline to seek our shellfish treasures. Foraging for ormers follows the ebbing tide and continues until we have found enough for our needs, or the tide turns and begins to recover the reef.
EVENING GATHERING
Spend your last day exploring Guernsey during daylight hours, with an optional private tour around the island.
We’ll regroup at Les Câches Farm for an evening gathering from 5pm.
You will be treated to a meal of our foraged ormers cooked in the traditional way by the Gaudion family. This traditional cuisine is not suitable for anyone with food allergies or sensitivities.
ABOUT CLAIRE
Claire Gaudion is a maker, teacher and custodian of one of Britain’s most distinctive living craft traditions. Drawing on over twenty-five years of experience and knowledge inherited through her Guernsey family lineage, she is dedicated to preserving the techniques, stories and artistry of traditional willow basketry. Through her collections, workshops and teaching, Claire bridges past and future, ensuring this rare island craft continues to inspire new makers and find its place in contemporary design.
“It was fascinating to learn about the history of the basket and something of your family's working life and continuing of traditions. Heartwarming stuff!”
— Jill E
“It was a real treat to be totally absorbed in the making of such a lovely basket, so rich in heritage and with lots of uses”
— Linda L
“Having attended many basketry workshops over the years, I can confidently say this was one of the very best.”
— Angela F
TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATION
Your booking confirms your place on this 5-day Guernsey Basketry and Ormering Retreat (17th to 21st February, inclusive). Travel to the island, and accommodation are not included in this price.
Please book your travel and accommodation separately.
Numbers are limited. Early booking is recommended.
We are pleased to partner with Little Big Group to offer special accommodation rates at the Peninsula, Les Douvres and Fleur du Jardin.
Once you have booked onto this event, you will receive a promotion code offering a discounted rate of £90 per room per night on a bed and breakfast basis, for single occupancy, plus website links to book your accommodation directly through the hotels.
You can find useful travel information at https://www.visitguernsey.com/