19 minute read
4 Star Accommodation in Guernsey 56
Dream Escape Find your
Which of the Channel Islands is best suited to you?
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1. My preferred mode of transport is a... A. 1840’s Railway B. Landrover Tour C. RIB Speedboat
2. To raise my heart rate
I’d choose...
A. A Tandem Bike
B. Cliff Walking
C. Sea Swimming 3. My sweet tooth favours... A. Cream Tea B. Gâche – Fruit Loaf C. Black Butter Preserve
4. I’d shout loudest at... A. Carnival Week B. Liberation Day Parades C. The Battle of Flowers
5. I like my accommodation to be... A. Homely B. Traditional C. Contemporary 6. My big night out would be... A. Fish & Chips on the beach B. Dinner by the Harbour C. Cocktails on the Terrace
7. I’d step back in time at... A. The Watermill B. Castle Cornet C. The War Tunnels
8. Getting back to nature I’d look for... A. Blonde Hedgehogs B. Puffins C. Bioluminescence
AMostly GO TO ALDERNEY
Get away from it all: Alderney is enchantingly traditional and charming.
BMostly GO TO GUERNSEY
Endless activities in a beautiful leisurely setting.
CMostly GO TO JERSEY
City, country and beach: Dive into the largest and most cosmopolitan island.
Explore the IslandsofGuernsey
SARK
1 holiday, 5 islands: become the skipper of your own destiny, spoilt for choice on your island hopping adventure! Each of the islands of Guernsey offers something strikingly different. All can be reached from Guernsey in an easy day trip or, on the larger islands, linger longer on an island retreat for a couple of days.
SARK 6 miles east of Guernsey lies Sark, the smallest of the four main Channel Islands. With no cars on the island - except tractors - and a residential population of a mere 600, it is easy to see how the island has earned its reputation as a ‘step back in time’. Explore this pretty island by bike or horse and trap and then by night see the skies come alive as the unpolluted darkness of no cars or street lights reveals millions of bright stars visible with the naked eye. LIHOU A quarter of a mile off the west coast of Guernsey, Lihou island is a small haven of peace and beauty, only accessible by foot for two weeks a month when the causeway is uncovered. Lihou Island hosts many nesting birds and a rich marine life can be observed on its shores as the tide goes down. Oyster Catchers, Ringed Plovers and Peregrine Falcons are amongst the species you will spot. Lihou remains one of the most extraordinary locations to visit and picnic! ALDERNEY Alderney is the third largest Channel Island only a small distance from Guernsey, and at just 3.5 by 1.5 miles, you’ll never be far away from the allure of its pretty town centre, the serenity of its extensive bays or the depth of its history. Small and perfectly formed, Alderney’s capital, St. Anne, is the heart of an island which is home to less than 2,000 inhabitants. With no long queues, you can walk through peaceful countryside, trek along dramatic coastlines and explore the quaint high street, all at your own pace. HERM Located 3 miles from Guernsey, the only way to arrive in Herm Island is by boat – either aboard a private yacht or on the passenger ferry. Herm Island has no cars, no crowds and definitely no stress. It is BUZ WHITE, PROCLAIMED SKIPPER “All the islands are fantastic in different ways. Herm has beautiful ideal for families and anyone else wanting to get away beaches, Sark has high cliffs, Jethou from it all. Enjoy beautiful, unspoilt beaches, sample (you can only see from the sea) island life, explore the natural coastline and take in has abundant bird life around its spectacular views of neighbouring islands and the French coast. There’s no place like Herm. coastline, whilst Alderney offers something different again ” .
ALDERNEY
ISLAND HOPPING PACKAGE
£509pp*
Explore Guernsey and her two closest sister islands, with day trips to Herm and Sark included in your holiday package.
Stay in Guernsey and take advantage of our fully-inclusive island-hopping package, giving you the chance to explore the charms of Herm and Sark with return ferries, meal and attractions included!
HERM
LIHOU
Holidayyour is our home
Being based in the Channel Islands, we are passionate about our home and endeavour to introduce the very best of everything they offer in the easiest way. Here are a few of our favourites from the team on the ground (and occasionally, sea!).
ANNA
Digital Marketing Executive and Weekend Cyclist La Pulante, Jersey
EVA
Incoming General Manager & Afternoon Tea Lover Chateau La Chaire (pg. 32), Jersey and Beach Yogi Le Braye, Jersey Corbiere, Jersey
ELEANOR
Product Coordinator and Sun Chaser St Ouen’s Bay, Jersey
BECKY
Product Manager and Battle of Flowers Enthusiast
LYDIA
Marketing & Development Manager
GILL
Sales Director and Gorilla Hunter
St Helier, Jersey
SONJA
Product & Ops Executive and Island Hopper Les Minquiers, Jersey
Q&A
With Lara Wherry, Customer Services Manager, moonlighting as St Lawrence Battle of Flowers Committee Member
When was your first Battle?
In 2013 my daughter Olivia wanted to be in the parade so we joined. The theme was ‘Funky Farm’, we loved every minute – once I embraced my cow outfit – and the next year I joined the committee.
What do you enjoy the most? I love the community spirit and the camaraderie that makes everything fun as we overcome the long days!
How do you decide your theme each year? We ask our community to submit designs and then the committee judges the entries with consideration given to build, music, costumes and past entries.
Tell us about the Flowers! The flowers come from England and Holland. We use a tried and tested formula to work out how many we need and this year we had 30,000 stems in 1,000 buckets of water!
Behind the scenes, when does the float take shape? We start with building the float in February. Next, hare’s-tail pieces are made, fundraising starts and dance rehearsals begin! Around 1st August the flowers arrive, they are stripped and placed in buckets ready to be picked and glued - we work until the last flower is placed the night before the parade.
How do you all celebrate? We have a meal at the Parish Hall after the day parade, then the Moonlight Parade is like a party with a fantastic atmosphere. But we have to be up early the next day to strip away all our hardwork!
Past Into Present
Given such a varied history, the Channel Islands have an eclectic and extensive selection of historical landmarks providing visitors with endless sightseeing possibilities.
As the only part of the British Isles occupied by the Germans during World War II, the Channel Islands are peppered with historical sites of great interest open to tourists.
The Jersey War Tunnels, the Guernsey Underground Hospital and German Occupation Museum are well worth a visit during your stay. German observation towers and bunkers still litter the coast of each Island.
Dating back even further are Elizabeth Castle in Jersey and Castle Cornet in Guernsey, from which the Noon Day Gun is fired throughout the tourist season, as well as historical re-enactments. Castle Cornet also houses five extraordinarily diverse museums. The Islands’ history dates back even further with a range of Neolithic and Medieval places of interest that are open to be explored.
DISCOVER JERSEY’S PAST
WITH OUR HISTORY AND HERITAGE HOLIDAY PACKAGE
7 nights by sea from £399pp* Packages available May - October Call us to find out more and book
Explore up to 4 Jersey Heritage attractions and the world- renowned Jersey War Tunnels during a fascinating Jersey break. This exclusive package includes entry to the War Tunnels and a Jersey Heritage pass.
Liberation 75
The Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles to fall under enemy rule being occupied by the Germans during World War II. 2020 marks 75 years since their liberation by British Forces and throughout the year the stories of islanders who lived during those times will be celebrated and brought to life through cultural, historical and culinary events.
The Bailiwick of Guernsey will host 75 different events between April and October to celebrate the diverse aspects of local history and will be themed around the German Occupation of the Islands as well as other areas that make up Guernsey’s rich heritage.
Jersey will also mark this milestone by recognising and reliving fascinating stories to ensure Jersey’s Liberation legacy lives on. Events and experiences will be organised throughout the year to mark this poignant anniversary.
Adventurers Wanted!
Escape the norm and breathe new life into your holiday. From surfing to standup paddle boarding, kayaking to coasteering, try a new skill or just settle back and watch the islands’ coastlines come to life from a sunny spot on the shore. The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams.
BEACH YOGA West Coast, Jersey
Enjoy the journey and let go of what doesn’t serve you as you practise your downward dog amongst nature on the West Coast of Jersey. The wild backdrop of this breath-taking bay will only add to your Zen as you tone and stretch to a beautiful sunset. Photo courtesy of ‘Jersey Seafaries’
CYCLING Island-wide, Jersey
Jersey is the ideal size to explore by bike or e-bike. From the delightfully quaint lanes bordered by fields to the sweeping coast with spectacular views, Jersey welcomes cyclists of all ages and abilities. Ride to the places that the buses can’t reach and find our hidden gems!
DOLPHIN SPOTTING Offshore islands, Jersey
Take to the seas and discover a new aspect of Jersey, its surrounding waters and those who inhabit it. No matter how many times you spot a dolphin, it’s always a special occasion. Their friendly and inquisitive nature will leave you with memories you’ll never forget.
DISCOVER JERSEY’S HIDDEN GEMS
JERSEY’S OFFSHORE ISLANDS
5 nights by sea from £299pp*
Board Jersey Seafaris RIB and voyage to the beautiful offshore islands of either Les Ecrehous or the Minquiers.
Explore one of the biggest tidal ranges in the world and discover hidden wonders around every corner. These incredible offshore islands are also great for dolphin and seal spotting in a simply stunning setting.
PADDLE BOARD West Coast, Guernsey
Experience the world’s fastest growing watersport and see the Island from a new perspective. Whether you’re giving it a go for the first time, or returning as a seasoned pro, the beautiful clear waters of Guernsey serve as the perfect paddle board playground.
TOUR GUERNSEY Ruette Tranquilles, Guernsey
With a welcoming & informative live guided commentary, Tour Guernsey is far more thrilling than just a regular sightseeing bus. The tours combine an all-inclusive excursion to landmark highlights with a peaceful drive around the island’s coastline. CLIFF WALKS Island-wide, Guernsey
Throughout Guernsey there is a welcoming series of self-guided walks and those along the cliff paths offer a ramblers’ paradise. Wild and rugged, punctuated with calm sandy bays, the scenery is ever-changing with a new vista and varying colours around each corner.
The Islands’ top Events
The Channel Islands offer a year round programme of colour, culture and captivating moments to share. Here are some of our favourites…
BATTLE OF FLOWERS Jersey August. Jersey’s Battle of Flowers is one of the best floral carnivals in Europe. This unmissable event sees a vibrant parade take place along Jersey’s main avenue with lively street entertainers.
JERSEY
AIR DISPLAY Jersey September. St. Aubin’s Bay becomes a natural amphitheatre during the International Air Display, with the skies above coming alive to the sights and sounds of aircraft from around the world.
APRIL MAY
Jersey Boat Show (May) Liberation Day (9th May) #LoveNature Festival (25th - 30th May) LIBERATION 75 Channel Islands May. Parades, remembrance and other activities themed around the history of the islands take place to mark the 75th anniversary of the Liberation of the Channel Islands after World War II.
JUNE
Around the Island Walk (20th June) Sunset Concerts (19th - 20th June)
GUERNSEY
SARK, HERM & ALDERNEY
Heritage 75 (April - October) HistoryFest (18th - 19th April)
Sark Triathlon (April) Sark Wildflower Fortnight (April) Guernsey Literary Festival (29th April - 4th May) Liberation Day (9th May) Spring Walking Festival (16th - 31st May)
Sark Scarecrow Trail (May) Liberation Day (9th May) Alderney Performing Arts Festival (23rd - 25th May) Floral Festival (June) Seafront Sundays (21st June)
Herm Mermaid Tavern Ale & Cider Festival (2nd - 7th June) Bloomin’ Alderney (22nd - 28th June)
EXPERIENCE THE JERSEY BATTLE OF FLOWERS
WITH OUR EXCLUSIVE HOLIDAY PACKAGE
7 nights by sea from £529pp*
Enjoy a week in Jersey experiencing one of Europe’s most spectacular floral carnivals. This exclusive holiday package includes a behind-the-scenes tour of floats as they complete their final preparations for the parades, a ticket to the day parade and a ticket to the eye-catching moonlight parade.
* Price based on travelling 8th August by sea staying at the 2* Norfolk Hotel.
SHEEP RACING Sark July. A firm favourite amongst the locals of the Channel Islands. A whole weekend of activities to enjoy with a variety of stalls, live music, a fancy dress parade and of course, the races!
WALKING FESTIVAL Guernsey May, June & September. Over 50 guided walks take place, in either spring or autumn, around the Island of Guernsey, introducing history, nature and arts by accredited guides.
LA FÊTE DE NOUÉ Jersey November & December. With everything from seasonal markets, carol concerts and a spectacular panto, anyone who can’t wait for Christmas to come around will find themselves right at home.
JULY
30 Bays in 30 Days (1st - 31st July) The Awakening Wellness & Fitness Festival (4th July) Accuro Jersey Triathlon (19th July)
Rocquaine Regatta (25th July)
Sark Sheep Racing Weekend (July) Alderney Food & Drink Festival (29th June - 10th July)
AUGUST
Round The Rock – Trail Monkey (Saturday 8th August) Jersey Battle of Flowers Parade (13th - 14th August)
The West Show (19th – 20th August) Fete d’Etai - Medieval Festival (23rd August) The North Show & Battle of Flowers (26th - 27th August)
Alderney Week (1st - 9th August)
SEPTEMBER
Walking Through Autumn Festival (9th - 13th September) Jersey Air Display (10th September) RBC Super League Triathlon (26th - 27th September)
Guernsey Air Display (10th September) Proms on the Pier (12th September) Autumn Walking Festival (19th Sept - 4th October)
Herm Mermaid Tavern Ale & Cider Festival (1st - 5th September) The Big Geekend (5th - 6th September)
OCTOBER
Tennerfest Food Festival (1st October - 11th November) Black Butter Making at the Elms (22nd - 24th October)
Tennerfest Food Festival (1st October - 11th November)
Life PortionA of Island
Indulge in the very best of island produce, the perfect accompaniment for a tasty island break
HEDGE VEG, GUERNSEY Local growers produce a wide range of fruit, vegetables and herbs that arrive fresh to our restaurants. Keep an eye out for ‘hedge veg’ while exploring the Island where local farmers leave honesty boxes on side of the roads with the freshest organic produce for sale.
FANCY A TIPPLE?
Q&A With Sophie, from La Belle Gourmande DAIRY AMBASSADOR, JERSEY
LOBSTER, JERSEY A true ‘must-taste’ whilst on Jersey. This delicate and delicious shell fish is best enjoyed simply, with a baguette and some delicious Jersey butter. Caught fresh most days, almost every restaurant worth their salt will have a wonderful Lobster dish on their menu for you to try!
GUERNSEY DAIRY Famous for the Guernsey cow breed which produces some of the best milk in the world; high in fat and rich in Omega 3 and calcium. Creamy delights are never far away for those favouring sweet or savoury from artisan cheeses to luscious ice-creams and, of course, cream teas.
STINKY BAY IPA, JERSEY
Named after a small bay that makes the very northwest tip of Jersey and created by two local boys, this was the first independent brewery in Jersey and their biscuity malt with a citrus finish can be found island-wide. Enjoy beach-side. dates back to 1866.
What do you love most about Jersey Cows? They are beautiful, gentle creatures, they have such a placid nature. She is a true Jersey icon, those eyelashes!
Can you give us a quick 15-minute recipe celebrating Jersey Dairy produce? A super easy Rhubarb fool – but you have to have good cream! Stew 4 sticks of rhubarb with 4 tbsp of sugar. Whip 300ml of Jersey Double Cream into soft peaks. Once cool, fold through your Rhubarb puree, Tell us something interesting we probably won’t know about Jersey cows? Every Jersey cow in Jersey is given a name and recorded in the Herd Book, which
set in the fridge then enjoy.
Where’s your favourite local spot to enjoy a picnic? Belcroute is idyllic, looking towards pebble beach in our village of St Aubin. On a summer’s day it feels almost tropical.
JERSEY ROYAL A uniquely nutty new potato, with a firm texture that makes it ideal for salads; make sure you grab a bag of them in the only place they’re grown! The Jersey Royal Potato is a native treasure with an unrivalled salty taste and quintessentially British heritage.
GUERNSEY SEAFOOD The Island’s coastline is home to a wealth of fish and seafood. Turbot, mackerel, brill and bass; crabs, scallops and oysters all blossom in our waters. For a rare shellfish delicacy, visit Guernsey between January and April, in ormer season, and try our local mollusc.
JERSEY OYSTERS With a daily influx of some of the freshest seawater in Europe, the Royal Bay of Grouville plays host to Jersey’s Oyster farms. There are plenty of seafront restaurants and local fisheries for all you oyster lovers to relish the distinctive flavour of the freshest Jersey Oyster!
WHEADONS GIN, GUERNSEY
Brainchild of Luke Wheadon, whose family has been involved in the production of alcohol on Guernsey for over a hundred years, this Gin comes in several varieties each complimenting the flavours that it will sit with in a G&T, martini or negroni. Serve with sun!
Q&A With Nicola, Wallow Farm LOCAL ARTISAN CHARCUTERIE PRODUCER, GUERNSEY
What’s your favourite local dish? My family’s bean jar made with Wallow pigs trotter and hock, and my dad’s carrots, haricots and onions, with lots of time (and thyme) thrown in.
What Wallow treats would you have on your charcuterie board? Pulled pork rillettes with homemade piccalilli, Fricandeau du Porc with Guernsey Vinery chutney, slices of Noix de Jambon with cornichons and sweet pickles and salami, which is so good it doesn’t need any accompaniment. And to wash it down? Blue Bottle gin and tonic, to be drunk at the top of our fields, overlooking the west coast and Lihou island.
What is pork walk and talk? Our walking tour inspired by the novel the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. It takes in the best aspects of food and drink from the story, namely pork and gin (both local of course)!
