Lihou island is the most westerly point of the Channel Islands, linked to Guernsey at low-tide by a quarter mile causeway from L'Erée headland.
The island was recognised as part of a 'Site of Nature Conservation Importance' (SNCI) as part of a 1989 study, and along with much of the Guernsey coastline it is designated an internationally 'Important Bird Area'. The bird nesting areas of Lissroy and Lihoumel are important breeding areas for species such as oystercatchers and ringed plovers and the public are asked to avoid these sites, which are clearly marked with signs and roped off areas.
The island provides a suitable environment for many different species of plants. Rare species that have been recorded include Yellow Horned Poppy, Sand Crocus, Least Adder's Tounge and Sea Stork's Bill.
The Priory on Lihou is believed to have been established by Benedictine monks from Mont Saint Michel in Normandy in the 12th century. The Priory is now in ruins, and archæological excavations led by Mrs Heather Sebire, the States' Archæology Officer, are under way to find out more about the structure of the priory and its associated buildings, and the like of the monks.
These excavations have resulted in the discovery of many artefacts including a wide array of pottery, a sundial, and an impressive coin dating from the time of Henry III and a number of graves. Various forms of architecture have been noted in the domestic buildings area of the Priory, including a covered walkway and substantial fireplace.