Just a short hop from the UK mainland, Jersey has long been a discreet escape for those in the know, financially or otherwise. The island offers a captivating blend of rugged natural beauty, incredible dining and unique financial benefits, making it a destination as rewarding to visit as it is to call home.
My stay at the elegant Hotel & Spa captured the essence of Jersey living – one that is effortlessly sophisticated yet imbued with countless opportunities to refresh, relax and revitalise. Nestled in a quiet residential street – and only moments away from St Helier’s quaint and picture-esque squares bustling with bar and pub life – the property balances old-world heritage with modern indulgence; it’s a place in which a storied past whispers through its architecture, yet the atmosphere remains delightfully unpretentious and undeniably welcoming.
Tim Phillips, General Manager at The Club Hotel & Spa, stated “We opened The Club Hotel & Spa in August 2005 and we’re delighted to have gone from strength to strength since then. The opening came soon after the success of our Bohemia restaurant, where we were awarded a Michelin star in January 2005.”
This was no flash of early excitement – the property is committed to upholding meticulously high standards and reflecting Jersey’s peerless reputation as a gastronomic hotspot. As Tim said: “We’ve held the Michelin star ever since, which is testament to the talented chefs who’ve been at the helm. Today, with Tom guiding the restaurant, we’re excited to see what the future holds.”
The hotel’s heart beats most palpably in Bohemia, its signature Michelin-starred restaurant, where the chef’s passion for provenance and creativity shine in every dish. Expect vibrant, seasonal tasting menus delivered with charisma, while cossetted in surroundings that are both contemporary and comforting. Each plate feels like a love letter to the island, and when paired with an excellent wine list, dinner becomes a true celebration of what makes Jersey unique and utterly seductive.
Tom Earnshaw, Head Chef at Bohemia is always keen to sing the island’s praises. “I live in the main town, St. Helier, but I’m a country boy at heart. I love that I can walk 10 minutes to the beach or head the other way and be in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by fields of Jersey cows and open skies. The pace of the island is great and I love being able to disconnect, switch my phone off for the day, and just take it all in”.
It’s a sentiment shared by pretty much everyone you’ll come across, and it’s an essence of local pride that’s as infectious as it is justified.
Tom goes on to highlight some of Jersey’s flagship products, many of which have become household names in their own right. “The fresh produce in Jersey is incredible – I’m a big fan of Jersey butter. The local fish we’re able to serve is among the finest in the British Isles, and Jersey crabs are widely considered the finest in the world. Being able to get them fresh in the morning is, frankly, amazing.
However, as is so often the case with British cuisine, Tom’s culinary skills highlight the wonders that are revealed by blending the local with an international palate.
“My signature dish is the Herdwick Lamb Saddle Merguez from my tasting menu. It brings back memories of smelling Merguez sausages in the south of France and Algeria – I like to bring in the memories of my travels when designing my menus.”
One of the more playful touches at The Club Hotel & Spa is the ‘honesty bar’, a concept that feels both rare and refreshing in today’s world. Guests help themselves to carefully curated spirits and mixers, jotting down their choices in a notebook. It’s convivial, a little mischievous, and quickly became a highlight of our evenings.
The spa is another standout, offering a sanctuary of calm – much needed after a plentiful evening of cocktails in The Royal Yacht Club the previous night. Treatments are exceptional, but even more memorable is the way relaxation extends beyond the therapy rooms. Much of the experience feels delightfully self-guided. Collect your own towels, drift between spaces and really take your time. The bonus for me was the hidden gem of an outside pool that was glistening in the sunshine on our first morning. Its turquoise depths and waterfall were so inviting, we spent many an afternoon on the sunbeds surrounding the pool. Best of all, it’s situated right next to the honesty bar.
Each morning begins with an incredible breakfast, a feast of local produce that sets the tone for the day. From delicate pastries to fresh island eggs and Jersey dairy, it’s the kind of breakfast that makes you linger just a little longer, especially with ‘make your own’ Bloody Marys and Bellinis. Bliss.
Of course, Jersey’s charms extend far beyond the hotel grounds. We ventured onto the water at St. Brelade’s Bay, skimming across the waves on a thrilling RIB boat ride. The tour of the coastline revealed hidden coves, soaring cliffs and sweeping beaches, each of which is arguably best appreciated at speed with the salt spray on your skin and the local insight of a very entertaining tour guide.
Seeking a little more substance, or wishing to get under the skin of an island with a rather complicated backstory? Jersey history comes vividly alive at Mont Orgueil Castle, an extraordinary medieval fortress that has stood sentinel over Gorey Harbour for more than 800 years. We were fortunate to witness a hawk display within its ancient walls, the birds wheeling against the backdrop of the battlements – a reminder of Jersey’s rich tapestry of culture and tradition.
Jersey is more than just a luxury getaway or a hub for entrepreneurs, investors and those seeking to make the most of a favourable financial framework; it is a place where the best of life is distilled into a small yet endlessly rewarding island, and one which benefits from truly breathtaking natural beauty and hospitality. Whether you’re indulging in a spa retreat, savouring world-class dining, racing across the waves, or contemplating life within castle walls, one thing is certain: Jersey leaves its mark not just as a destination, but as a lifestyle worth investigating.
For further details, please visit: www.theclubjersey.com
