Recharge in the Channel Islands
BLENDING familiar British surroundings with a dash of Gallic flair, the Channel Islands are idyllic places to come up for air this summer or beyond.
With a flight time of around an hour, you can finish your busy week on a Friday and be on one of the islands in time for a sunset dinner by the sea.
Wake up in a coastal sanctuary to views of epic cliffs, expansive seas, bright skies and the promise of invigorating beach walks — a wonderful way to re-energise and revitalise.
As the season mellows, the soft, sandy beaches and rich woodland colours come to life in the golden light. Food festivals and walking weeks enliven the Channel Islands scene.
And Tennerfest is coming up in October and early November — when fantastic set menus are served in the islands’ many excellent restaurants for a fraction of the usual price.
It’s easy to arrange a holiday in the Channel Islands. Island Getaways, for example, offers great-value deals to Guernsey or Jersey from £139 pp. And Premier Holidays also offers some fantastic hotel and flight options to these islands that blend a taste of the continent with the familiarity of home.
JERSEY is an island that’s small in size, but big on personality, where country lanes open to clifftop views and the sea is always close by.
From the north’s rugged cliffs to the surf-washed sands of St Ouen’s Bay in the west, Jersey is a joy to explore, whether by foot, bike, kayak or car. There’s history in spadefuls, too — wander into German bunkers, historic castles, wartime tunnels and even Neolithic chambers.
For something very different, walk on the seabed on a guided bioluminescence walk. As night descends, star-like shapes of luminous green twinkle and sparkle at low tide.
Or take a 15-minute boat ride to Les Ecrehous, part of Jersey’s National Park — great for dolphin and seal spotting.
SMALLER, scenic Guernsey is circled by unspoiled beaches and 28 miles of clifftop walks.
Evidence of the German Occupation lingers on in the form of some 800 installations, from watchtowers to an underground hospital. Great places to visit include the Little Chapel, now fully restored.
Hauteville House is Victor Hugo’s eccentric home, decorated by the famous writer himself.
And Castle Cornet houses five fascinating museums.
Coming up soon is Guernsey Food Festival (September 16 to 24), featuring cocktails, afternoon tea, live food shows, markets and fine dining.
Why not take off for a reviving break, booking a great deal through a specialist operator? Find your freedom in late summer or autumn on these wonderful islands of rediscovery.