With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, you may be thinking of booking a romantic night or two away with your loved one. With so much choice of accommodation available right here in the Channel Islands, there’s no need to go too far to find a special break. From heritage buildings to boutique hotels, we’ve rounded up our top picks to get away from it all without having to get away.
JERSEY
Archirondel Tower
Jersey Heritage has a plethora of historic properties which lend themselves to unique island breaks, but for a romantic Valentine’s weekend away our top choice is Archirondel Tower at St Catherine’s Bay.
Built on a rocky outcrop in 1792, Archirondel Tower was used as a garrison for artillery soldiers and has been a key defensive point throughout Jersey’s history. There are no barriers to staying there now though, and you can book directly with Jersey Heritage.
The property is linked to the shore by the abandoned southern arm of St Catherine’s Breakwater and is split over four levels with a roof terrace overlooking the tranquil bay. The refurbished tower has kitchen and dining facilities and a double bed for your stay, while the cosy living space has that all important log burning stove for winter evenings.
For more information visit: www.jerseyheritage.org/holiday/staying-with-jersey-heritage
GUERNSEY
Fermain Tower
Fermain Tower was built to guard the island against invaders in the late 18th century but is now welcoming visitors, having been restored by the National Trust of Guernsey and opened to the public for overnight stays in 2019.
Situated in one of the island’s most scenic spots, it has three floors of accommodation including a kitchen, living area, bathroom and bedroom. The roof deck of the tower means you can spend your days enjoying the spectacular views over the water and your evenings doing some romantic stargazing.
The accommodation isn’t for young lovers though as Fermain Tower is restricted to those aged over 25 and able-bodied.
For more information visit: www.nationaltrust.gg/fermain-tower/
ALDERNEY
Braye Beach Hotel
If you are looking for a luxury staycation in Alderney, the four star Braye Beach Hotel is our pick. Situated right on the picturesque bay, we would recommend splashing out on accommodation on the beach side of the hotel. That way, if the February weather isn’t encouraging you to be outside you can enjoy the stunning views from the comfort of your room.
For a Valentine’s getaway, our tip is to book out the hotel’s cinema and cosy up to your loved one with a romantic film before heading to their new restaurant The Vaults for some delicious food.
For more information visit: www.brayebeach.com
HERM
Priest’s House
While we love the traditional charm of Herm’s White House Hotel, it doesn’t open for the season until the spring. At this time of year we’d recommend a break at one of the island’s self-catering cottages to take advantage of the quiet season on the island.
An open fire is a must at this time of year, so Priest’s House next door to St Tugual’s Church would be a great option for a romantic break, and you can always pop in to Herm’s tiny church to pay tribute to St Valentine himself.
For more information visit: www.herm.com/where-to-stay/
SARK
Pourquoi Pas Guest House
They say chocolate is an aphrodisiac, so the Pourquoi Pas Guest House, based in the same grounds as the award winning Caragh Chocolates, seems an obvious choice for a Valentine’s Day break. A traditional Scandinavian style log cabin, it is just 15 minutes’ walk from Sark village but offers gorgeous coastal views and cliff top scenery.
The cabin sleeps eight but those looking for a romantic break will want the double room with balcony and sea views where you can watch the sun set from your cabin before enjoying a cosy evening in.
For more information visit: www.sark.co.uk/where-to-stay/