The Gouliot Headland is a RAMSAR site (it gained this status in 2007), recognised worldwide as having special animal and plant life, particularly the marine life in the Gouliot Caves, a large sea cave system on the Sark side of the Gouliot passage.

The area above the caves, on the headland itself, is a blanket of bluebells and primroses in spring. Botanists may also spot one or two white bluebells (not to be confused with the common wild garlic) and the tiny, delicate and rare sand crocus.Walkiing on the headland in the evening is a delight. Many like to sit on the cliff and watch the sun set. The area is grazed by livestock so visitors should be aware to close gates when walking in the area.

There are views over Jethou and Herm, as well as the larger island of Guernsey in the distance. To the right of the headland, which itself makes a stunning picnic spot, is the path that leads down to the Gouliot Caves. This route requires quite a clamber, and a good knowledge of the tides. The path goes close to the cliff edge, and it is recommended that someone with a good knowledge of the tides goes with you. The tide needs to be very low in order to access the caves (under 1m, the lowest spring tides).

The caves are open to sea on both sides of the headland allowing up to ten knots of current to surge through the network of caverns on all but the lowest of tides. The water is laden with plankton, the tiny plants and animals that form the basis of the food chain in the sea. As a result, every available surface of the caves is carpeted with marine life, much of which is normally only found in deeper water. As the tide falls the creatures are left out of the water but the shaded walls of the caves stay damp and cool enough for the animals to survive until the water returns. The result is a colourful patchwork of marine life including sponges, anemones and even some corals.

The uniqueness of the caves , along with the wealth of marine life they support and the variety of flora above, led to the Gouliot Caves being declared a Wetland of International Importance under the RAMSAR convention in 2007.

Information taken from Sark Strolls, written by Jan Guy and Sue Daly. This book can be purchased at the Visitor Centre for £9.95 and gives details of 11 walks around Sark.