Somerville Hotel ★★★★

No visitor can deny the profoundly unique charm of the Channel Islands. Though not easy to place your finger on exactly what makes these isles so captivatingly beautiful, there are certainly a few reasons which come to mind. Firstly, history has long noted the magic of the sea, with its power to draw the soul and invigorate the spirit. Secondly, no typical tourist beach resort can compare to an authentic maritime location. Thirdly, the moors; in their varying shades of green, giving out to dramatic cliffs, make for scenes worthy of display on art gallery walls. This is a place where poets dwell and lovers make history. If you’re looking to experience true bay side bliss in a place which combines class, comfort and convenience then a stay at the beloved Somerville Hotel is just perfect for you.

Inside the hotel, you’ll find a superbly traditional lobby, a renowned restaurant and 59 tranquil rooms. Thanks to VeryChic, you have a guaranteed upgrade from the Inland Room to the Classic Sea View Room, with all its extra assets. Regal red armchairs, delicately patterned wallpaper, floral bouquets and British-style carpets come together in the beautifully decorated rooms. Sheltered from the storm of everyday life, the Sea View Room will put you at ease with its soothing pastel colours, soft furnishing and celestial decor. The bed is large enough to engulf you and the amenities are plentiful, but the real perk of the Sea View Room is in the name - the unbeatable views over the port, allowing you to watch the sky’s chameleon-like transition reflected in the glimmering sea - changing from romantic pink to hypnotizing lilac.

“I spent uncounted hours looking at the water and the sky, studying each wave...seeing how it caught the light, the air, the wind; watching patterns... letting it take me.”

You find yourself relating to a number of quotes from Gary Paulsen’s books when in the presence of such majestic sights as visible from the hotel’s Sea View Rooms. The close proximity to the seaside and its wonderfully calming effects upon the soul will make for an instantly restful stay. Drifting to sleep as you listen to the distant sound of crashing waves and seagull song will make the perfect end to your day.

It matters not whether you’re a fish fanatic, oriental enthusiast or vegetarian - high quality dining is the expertise of the award-winning ‘Tides’ restaurant; its varied and outstanding menu making it the hotel’s finest element. Whilst many top restaurants in Jersey offer notable competition, ‘The Tides’ restaurant at Somerville Hotel emerges as the clear winner every time. For a guaranteed unforgettable meal, indulge in a spectacular seafood starter of tender salmon, crab and avocado. For the last course, finish off with hot pineapple soufflé or dark rum ganache. After a night’s sleep has let you recover from such gastronomical delights, there’s the sailor’s breakfast awaiting you - with a generous selection of cheeses, pastries and fruits.

Last but not least, we must mention the incredible Somerville staff who symphonically bring together every little component of your stay whilst showing clear pleasure in doing so. Their approach to service is pleasantly old-fashioned; a straight dose of friendliness, helpfulness and seemingly effortless assistance. Whether with a large group or travelling solo, you will leave Jersey with a peace of mind and smile of satisfaction after staying at the Somerville Hotel.