Rugged coastline, sandy beaches, beautiful countryside, medieval castles and a world-class food scene. The largest Channel Island, Jersey, is the perfect destination for a long weekend break, although the abundance of cultural and scenic experiences and the genuine friendliness of everyone you meet promise to make you want to book another trip and return there as soon as you’re back home.

If you’re planning a mini trip to Jersey or if you need inspiration for your next weekend getaway this summer, then read on for Finance Monthly’s top recommendations.

 

 

How to get there?

Getting from Europe, and especially the UK, to Jersey is ridiculously easy. Flybe operates flights to Jersey from all major British cities, which get you to the picturesque island in approximately an hour. Once you land, grab a Hertz rental car from the arrivals hall and head out into the narrow country lanes.

 

 

Where to stay?

With its breath-taking views across St. Ouen’s Bay, stunning outdoor pool and swaying palms, The Atlantic Hotel makes it difficult to believe that all of this is only an hour-long flight from London. With its six acres of grounds that border La Moye Golf Course, along with lush gardens, timelessly elegant interiors and rooms that have either sea or golf-course views, The Atlantic Hotel is Jersey’s answer to beachside luxury.

If you don’t feel like heading out to the capital St. Helier for dinner on your first night in Jersey, enjoy a gastronomic fine-dining experience at the hotel’s Ocean Restaurant and sample the Tasting Room seven-course menu by Chef Will Holland.

 

The Atlantic Hotel offers an Atlantic break year round from £118 per person per night. This includes accommodation, full English breakfast each morning, a three-course dinner in Ocean Restaurant each night, use of the Palm Club and a group B hire car (petrol, insurance and Jersey hire car tax to be settled direct with the hire car company). Minimum two-night stay.

To book your stay at The Atlantic Hotel, please visit www.theatlantichotel.com, call +44 (0) 1534 744101 or email reservations@theatlantichotel.com.

 

What to do & see?

Jersey is only five miles by nine miles, but is brimming with an abundance of things to do. With its hugely varied landscape, a coastline that doesn’t get boring for a second, ideal conditions for water sports such as surfing or kayaking, a number of museums, an adventure centre, a zoo and so much history, the island offers something for everyone.

Start off your day of exploration in St. Brelade’s Bay by taking a stroll along the beach and soaking up some sunshine. La Corbière is the extreme south-western point of Jersey in St. Brelade and visiting its lighthouse is another great way to take in the endless sea views. However, you still haven’t seen anything and I promise you - it only gets better. For some of the most dramatic scenery on the whole island, drive along the west coast, all the way up until you get to the main act – the rugged north coast. We suggest stopping a few times to fully enjoy the jaw-dropping beauty of Jersey’s north coast and take photos.

Following this, grab a quick crab sandwich and a coffee from Jersey’s iconic kiosk The Hungry Man and set some time aside to properly explore the network of staircases and secret rooms in Mont Orgueil Castle, which guards the picturesque village of Gorey on the east coast.

After a delicious breakfast in the Atlantic Hotel on the next morning, prepare yourselves for a journey back in time with Jersey War Tours. Immerse yourselves in the Channel Island’s fascinating WWII history by visiting a number of bunkers, batteries, tunnels, towers and many other sites - all of which are not open to the public.

In addition to its water sports offering, adrenaline junkies or families with kids can enjoy a morning or an afternoon at Valley Adventure Centre, which offers an exciting range of activities such as zip wiring, aerial or rookie trekking, climbing, paintball and more.

If you have some time to spare before your flight, grab your car and head to the capital St. Helier for a coffee or an ice-cream and some shopping or enjoy one last beach walk and a few final deep breaths of fresh salty air.

 

 

Where to dine?

For a real taste of just-caught seafood, head to the Michelin Bib Gourmand Mark Jordan at the Beach – a relaxed beachside restaurant in the magical fishing village of St. Aubin. Delicious, locally sourced and cleverly presented food, excellent views, laid back atmosphere and outstanding service – what more can one ask for? The Jersey scallops with chive and cucumber beurre blanc and the brill in lobster bisque are both unmissable.

On your last night, head back to St. Aubin and its harbour and finish your day at Salty Dog Bar & Bistro. Enjoy a glass of wine in the garden before settling down in the bustling dining area to indulge in classic dishes, with a contemporary twist and impeccably prepared with local ingredients. For a taste of everything, try the St. Aubin Seafood sharing platter for two, which comes with scrumptious Jersey Royals and a green salad.

 

 

For more information about Jersey, please visit www.jersey.com 

Flybe operates daily flights to Jersey from London and Birmingham, with fares starting from £26.33 one way, including taxes and charges. Book now at www.flybe.com