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Jersey

Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands and has a widely varied scenery and the most bustling metropolis (laidback St Helier) of the bunch. There's something of the tidiness of the Brits here, the hanging flower baskets, bungalows, and cafes serving all-day breakfasts. But the restaurants show the flair of the French - you can eat exceedingly well here - and the climate and the beaches feel more French than British.

Who goes there: 

With a reliable summer season, Jersey attracts everyone from families and surfers to an older crowd appreciating the fine dining and upmarket shopping. The island has developed to cater for the huge number of visitors it receives and, given its size, has a wealth of attractions to keep everyone entertained.

Where in the world: 

Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands, lying approximately 160km (100 miles) south of the coast of England and 23km (14 miles) from the coast of Normandy in France. The island is roughly 14.5km (9 miles) by 8km (5 miles). It slopes from north to south and often appears to visitors to be largely composed of pink granite. Jersey has over 20 bays, many small harbours and magnificent beaches bathed by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream.

When to go: 

Situated off the coast of southern England, Jersey experiences a reliably warmer climate than the rest of the country. The best months to visit are between May and September when the mostly sunny days are perfect for hitting the beach. In July and August, the temperature often exceeds 25°C (77°F). In fact, the Channel Islands experience the most annual sunshine than anywhere else in the British Isles. Rainfall averages 84cm (33 inches) a year, most of which falls during the cooler months. Sea temperatures average over 17°C (63ºF) in deep water during the summer.

Beach: 

Jersey is ringed by craggy cliffs and sandy beaches, many of which are sheltered and very safe for swimming. St Aubin's Bay, on the south coast, is dotted by cafes and beach kiosks and is a sheltered golden-sand curve that's great for families. Nearby St Brelade's Bay is popular in summer, with good facilities. Greve de Lecq, a short walk from St Ouen on the north coast, is a small but lovely white-sand beach dotted by beach kiosks and populated by over-confident seagulls.

Beauport, also on the south coast, is a small, white-sand cove that gets sun most of the day and has good water quality. It's rarely busy because of the slightly longer walk to reach it, being situated at the base of a cliff with quite a steep approach. Windsurfers, surfers and kite flyers should head to St Ouen's Bay, with its sweeping stretch of exposed sand. Swimming can be treacherous here, so be aware of the restricted areas.

Beyond the beach: 

For a slice of history head to the Jersey War Tunnels (www.jerseywartunnels.com), which tell the extraordinary story of wartime Jersey. The tunnels themselves are formed of the spooky former underground military hospital, hollowed out using forced labour. It's now occupied by a fascinating exhibition that uses flickering film footage and artefacts to vividly bring alive the period of German occupation.

Those who enjoy a round of golf should pack their clubs as Jersey has two famous 18-hole golf courses: La Moye in St Brelade and Royal Jersey in Grouville (www.royaljersey.com). Both require proof of handicap or membership in a recognised club. Anyone can play at 18-hole Les Mielles or Les Ormes and nine-hole Wheatlands or Greve D'Azette.

Family fun: 

Jersey has plenty for both kids and grownups to do. Watersports such as canoeing and sailing are available from the larger beaches; while inland there is the marvellous Durrell (www.durrellwildlife.org), a cage-free zoo whose layout allows the animals to roam remarkably freely. Mont Orgueil Castle (www.jerseyheritagetrust.org), overlooking Gorey harbour on the east coast, is an impressive fairytale edifice that's fun to explore. The Maritime Museum (New North Quay, St Helier) offers entertaining interactive fun.

Retail therapy: 

Catering to its wealthy population, Jersey boasts some very upmarket shops. You can browse the expensive Rolex watches at Hettich Jewellers (1 King Street) or buy bespoke gold and silver pieces at Aurum Jewellers (2 Charing Cross). De Gruchy (King St) is a venerable department store that has been open for around 200 years, selling high-end labels.

As well as swanky threads, Jersey is a great place to buy local products, such as wine, cider, butter and delicious Jersey cream, as well as lavender products made here. La Mare Vineyards (La Rue de la Hogue Mauger St Mary) is a good bet for some top products.

One of the advantages of shopping in a tax haven is that there is only a 3% Goods & Services tax, rather than the 15% VAT in the UK.

Night on the town: 

The best thing to do in Jersey of an evening is to enjoy a long, leisurely meal (see Eating Out), and then follow it with a harbour or seaside drink. One fabulous place to eat and drink is the marvellous, 17th-century Old Courthouse Inn (St Aubin's Bay), a warren of a place overlooking the quiet harbour of St Aubin's. It has a bar made out of a boat with seating out by the water and excellent bar food. But if you're after razzle dazzle, try the Bar Café (Waterfront, St Helier), with its wonderful harbour views.

For those who want the night to last longer, there are several clubs, such as Watersplash (St Ouen's Bay), which is the surfers' nightspot, with regular live music and DJs. Whilst Liquid & Envy (the Waterfront, St Helier) features big-name DJs such as Danny Rampling. Look out for one-of-a-kind occasional raves at heritage site Elizabeth Castle (St Helier).

Eating out: 

Jersey has some exceedingly good places to eat, channelling its French side and serving up fresh-as-the-sea seafood. The best places for atmosphere are those overlooking the sea: the Boathouse (One North Quay), right on the harbour at St Aubin, has delicious food and shimmering views through plate-glass windows, while super-chic Suma's (Gorey Hill) offers high-end Mediterranean dishes and romantic sea views. Local specialities worth trying include Bean crock (dried beans with onions, herbs and pig trotters), Fiottes (balls of flour, sugar and eggs, cooked in milk), and cream teas served with Jersey clotted cream.

Getting there and around: 

Jersey's small towns are easy to access on foot, but to get between them, you'll have to make use of the island's efficient bus services (www.mybus.je). Buses operate throughout the island and Explorer tickets are valid for one, three and five days. Alternatively visitors can or hire a bike or car in St Helier.

Splashing out: 

The Michelin-starred restaurant Bohemia (Green Street) at the über-chic Club Hotel & Spa (www.theclubjersey.com) is a real treat, with intimate wood-panelled interior and wonderful local ingredients used to create delectable, memorable meals. It's a great place to sup on cocktails too.

Flying in: 

St Peters (JER)

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