Jersey - The Jewel of the Channel Islands

Western Jersey

After the first of our delicious daily breakfasts at the hotel, we uncover authentic Jersey on a tour of the west side. A scenic drive takes us first to Noirmont Point, where the old German bunkers and vantage points offer breathtaking views, before heading to the golden sands of St. Bredlade’s Bay, often hailed as one of the best beaches in the British Isles, and then to the equally beautiful Greve de Lecq and St. Ouens Bay, with clear water, waves and tides that make for a popular surfing spot.

This wouldn’t be a trip to Jersey without a visit to the famous Corbiere lighthouse and Elizabeth Castle, and so these are included on this fascinating tour, taking the ferry to the castle. Named after Queen Elizabeth I, the stronghold is simply a must-see, with a long and intriguing history and unrivalled vistas, as well as tunnels, bunkers and turrets to explore.

This evening we return to the hotel to enjoy the first of two included dinners.

Samares Manor

Today we visit beautiful Samares Manor and botanical gardens. A knowledgeable local guide will bring history to life as we uncover the Medieval origins of the manor and its place today, home to Seigneur de Samares for centuries. Amongst our vibrant surroundings, we will also delve deeper into its colourful past with a guided tour of the manor house and Museum of Rural Life before a wander to the herb garden. The herb gardens are full of medicinal plants, roses and lavender, with a viewing platform to fully appreciate the elegant and calming surroundings.

After the tour, there is time to explore the renowned botanical gardens, unique because the land is exceptionally fertile with exotic plants that wouldn’t normally grow in the British Isles’ climate. Designed in the roaring 1920s, you’ll spy heritage blooms dancing amongst the rows of plants, as well as a bee garden and fragrant herbs, a relaxing end to the afternoon.

Eastern Jersey and Boat Cruise

Today, we continue to learn more about what makes Jersey so special as we see the island from a different angle. Hopping onto our boat cruise at Albert Quay, we journey along the eastern coastline with commentary from a local expert. As we witness incredible views from our boat, the Jersey Duchess, our minds are cast back to what it would have been like to see beautiful Jersey for the first time in this way, long before air travel. Jersey is particularly famous for its marine life too – so if you are lucky you might spot bottlenosed dolphins, seals or even basking sharks.

This afternoon, explore our base in St. Helier further with some free time. So what’s it to be? Perhaps learn more about this historic island’s navy past with a visit to the Maritime Museum or soak up the culture of the Jersey Museum and Art Gallery. Foodies will enjoy a trip to the Central Market, whilst those who love to shop independent will be sure to relish in the quaint boutiques. Or perhaps just simply watch the world go by with views from one of the Marinas before heading back to get ready for dinner this evening.

Jersey War Tunnels, La Mare Estate & Afternoon Tea

Most people know that Jersey was occupied by the Germans during WW2. At first with a relatively moderate approach, but as the war continued, conditions for locals got harder and harder, with forced labour and mass deportations and during the winter of 1944-1945, and near starvation for most of the population. It was a poignant time in Jersey’s history and a period we feel is important to understand. We visit the Jersey war tunnels, dug by enforced labour under harsh conditions, which tell the story of life during the German occupation: the heartache, resistance, hardship, heroism and eventual liberation.
After a moving morning, this afternoon we experience a different part of Jersey’s culture On our visit to La Mare wine estate, distillery, and cider farm. The estate is celebrated for the quality of its produce, including the renowned Black Butter preserve, used by many esteemed chefs, as well as its wines, cider, and liqueurs.

We will explore the estate with a guided tour and tasting as we learn about the ethos behind La Mare and how the estate makes things a little differently on this small island. After our tours which includes a not to be missed visit to the chocolate kitchen, we will settle down for afternoon tea – no doubt featuring famed Jersey milk and cream. After a deliciously delightful afternoon, we will have time for a stroll in the gardens and vineyards before heading back.

Return Home

After breakfast, we return home with fond memories of this small but fascinatingly beautiful part of the world.