Cara Magazine September 2014
Cara Magazine September 2014 – Aer Lingus inflight magazine
IDYLLIC ISLANDS Looking for somewhere to get away from the bustle? Aoife O’Riordain picks some of the best off-shore destinations.
Jersey, The Channel Islands
The UK’s most southerly outpost, Jersey has an alluring intermingling of cultures, being 160 kilometres from the mainland yet only 16 kilometres from French shores.
Anyone old enough to remember the classic TV series Bergerac that saw actor John Nettles whizzing around the island in his burgundy Triumph Roadster will agree that Jersey’s scenery is spectacular; its coastline, quiet country roads and pretty towns are all part of the appeal. Sensitive planning laws have ensured that Jersey’s landscape is delightfully unspoilt. Measuring just 14 by eight kilometres, it is easily explored over a few days – one of the highlights is its 80 or so kilometres of designated “Green Lanes” criss-crossing the island, where walkers, cyclists and horse riders take precedence over cars with a speed limit of 25km/h. Then there is the capital St Helier, the 13th-century Mont Orgueil castle, the sweeping sands of St Ouen’s Bay and the dramatic splendour of La Corbière lighthouse. History buffs will know that the Channel Islands were the only part of the UK to be occupied by German forces in 1940 during the Second World War – get a fascinating insight at the Jersey War Tunnels, which is one of its most popular visitor attractions. Potatoes, luscious milk and cream, black butter, crab and the elusive Ormer – a rare type of sea snail found in the surrounding waters – are just a few of the gourmet finds on Jersey, so it’s no surprise the island is becoming an increasing draw for foodies.
Stay at … One of the island’s classic establishments, The Atlantic Hotel has farreaching views of St Ouen’s Bay and perches on the edge of Les Mielles Nature Reserve with its network of sand dunes known as Les Blanches Banques. Doubles from £150 B&B. (+44 1534 744 101; theatlantichotel.com)
Get there … Aer Lingus flies to Jersey from Dublin and Cork.