Jersey has long been on my wish list. When I picture Jersey I think of sandy beaches in picturesque bays, clifftop walks with stunning views and a mix of English and French influences that make it quite unique. Familiar, yet different is how I imagine it to feel.

I’ve just made a little video about my dream break on the island. I can’t share it but you can make your own as part of the ‘Escape to Jersey‘ competition currently running to win a short break for two. More on that in a moment but first here’s my dream escape to Jersey.

St Aubin’s Harbour

Where would I stay on Jersey?

Glamping in a wildlife park or touring in a restored camper van

Beuvelande Campsite St Martin. Van available from Jersey Camper Hire

I’m a big fan of glamping or staying in places that are unique and quirky so I’d stay in a yurt complete with futon beds and a wood burning stove or perhaps a restored camper van. Another option, and this is probably my favourite, would be my own cosy camping pod over looking Lemur Lake at the Durrell Wildlife Camp. They have double beds, wood burning stoves and your own kitchen and shower. Now that’s my kind of camping!

Glamping at Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust

What would I do on Jersey?

Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust

Top of my list would be the wildlife park that was opened over fifty years ago by the late author and naturalist, Gerald Durrell. I have a huge collection of his books, the most famous being ‘My Family and Other Animals’, which I read while I was studying zoology. He was a real inspiration and I’ve always wanted to visit the park. It was the first ever conservation-themed zoo.

While I still feel that nothing can compare to a wildlife encounter in the wild, the work that parks like this do are essential and supporting them is a must in my book. Throughout the years the ethos underpinning the park has always been the welfare and survival of endangered animals. Where else can you see some of the world’s most spectacular and rare species, all on the same day and know your visit is contributing to the fight against their extinction.

Sumatran orangutan, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust

As well as the family of gorillas I’d love to see the Sumatran orangutans and the tamarin monkeys and a host of other wonderful creatures.

There’s a great range of behind the scenes experiences too. You can even be a keeper for the day. Having once worked voluntarily at a local zoo in the summer before I went to university this would be right up my street.

Enjoying Nature, Food and Ale

Jersey has some truly stunning scenery and I can think of no better way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty than by strolling through the enchanting woodlands or along spectacular cliff paths. And what better way to work up an appetite than by following one of the fabulous Food and Ale trails. Sounds good to me.

Bouley Bay, Jersey

Victoria in the Valley, St Peter

As I wander around the island’s paths, between the country pubs, I’d be on the look out for red squirrels. They disappeared from mainland England a long time ago but you can still see red squirrels in Jersey today. Catching sight of one or better still photographing one would be a real treat.

Red Squirrel, Jersey

There’s plenty more activities to do and historic sites, gardens, galleries, museums and markets to visit. After my recent adventures in Slovenia, I might try my hand at blokarting, speeding across the sands with the wind in my sail or even more zip lining. Maybe.

Blokarting at Le Braye, St Ouen’s Bay

What else would I eat and drink in Jersey?

Local specialities

Jersey has a rich heritage of growing apples and making cider so I’d be sure to sample a pint (or two!) during my stay. It’s also famous for its seafood being home to the only certified sustainable lobster fishery in the British isles and the crystal clear water and unique tides provide daily natural filtration for the world-class oysters of the Royal Bay of Grouville.

Jersey Royal New Potatoes.  The fields on slopes near the coast – known as côtils – are so steep that almost all the work is done by hand.

As well as these, lets not forget the prize-winning Jersey Royal Potatoes and the island’s own breed of cows, the prettiest cows you’ll see anywhere, that produce the most delicious milk, butter and clotted cream. There’s also an abundance of organically grown fresh produce available. It’s a food lover’s haven and I’ll be keeping an eye out for the Genuine Jersey Mark to be sure to enjoy the best of local produce that the island has to offer.

 

 

I’ve also heard that they have giant cabbages that are made into walking sticks but that’s another story.

Win an Escape to Jersey

If Jersey is on your wish list (and it should be) then check out this competition to win a break there. It’s quick and easy to enter. By using sliders to indicate the type of holiday you enjoy from the style of accommodation you prefer to whether you are looking for relaxation or plenty of activity, your very own video is created. It’s fun to do and you could win a short break, similar to the one in your video. (I wonder if you win the company of the handsome young man who appeared in my version of the video too?).

The competition runs until the end of October so why not create your Jersey escape today? What would make your dream escape?

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