Our Jersey Jaunt!
At the time of travel, we were double vaccinated so just needed to complete the entry PLF into Jersey, have a Covid test upon arrival and nothing on return as Jersey is part of the UK Common Travel Area. The flight from Leeds was about an hour and the check in was very quiet. Once we arrived, it took around 40 minutes for us to get our bags and clear security after we had been given our free PCR test in very organised surroundings. We were advised by text around 12 hours later that we were negative and could travel around Jersey freely.
The weather was amazing when we arrived, in the late 20’s and yes, I did feel like we were properly overseas!! The island is just 9 x 5 miles, has 12 parishes with 13 police forces. Average speed limit is 20mph - even though I have never seen so many supercars in one place! I found St Helier to be a bustling continental town, filled with cafes with outdoor seating, designer shops, amazing restaurants and narrow streets. We were staying just outside the capital where we found some super beach food shacks and local bars.
In our hire car, we travelled up the west coast of Jersey along the 5-mile road and found the most fabulous beaches. At low tide, the water is so far out you can see an almost lunar landscape and when it’s high tide (sometimes 11m!) everything is covered completely! A visit to the Military Museum in St Ouen was quite enlightening learning more about the history of the German occupation, castles and forts. We took a short drive to the stunning Corbiere lighthouse where we walked across the causeway paying attention to the notice regarding tide times!
I also wanted to have a quick look at my 2 ‘go to’ hotels in Jersey, the Golden Sands and L'Horizon Beach Hotel & Spa at Brelade’s Bay where we have direct contract prices. It’s a gorgeous beach resort, with a flat promenade, buzzing with bars and restaurants - felt almost normal!
We always like an adventure, so on our final day, I had booked an exciting seafari trip around the north coast on a rib. Riding the waves, we stopped at various bays and caves, enjoying a running commentary from our knowledgeable guide about the history and geography of the area. This was followed by ice cream at the Jersey Lido and our final night dinner at The Quayside in St Helier.
It’s easy to navigate Jersey by car and absolutely recommended. You’ll find stunning beaches, bays and coves around every corner - although be careful of the very narrow winding roads in the north! You can get around the island and see plenty in a couple of days. From beach shacks to Michelin starred restaurants, touristy resorts to quaint villages…. there’s definitely something here for everyone!