British Travel Journal | Autumn 2019

DON’T GO TO ALDERNEY. You won’t like it. In fact,
don’t even read my article, and I hope you have a
great staycation elsewhere on the British Isles! I wish
I could keep this up, but of course, I’m joking. The
truth is, as anyone who follows me on Instagram will know,
I adored my weekend break in Alderney. In fact I enjoyed it
so much that I feel hesitant in sharing my experience of this
charming island, for fear that word will get out, and that one
day the island might change.
Alderney is the third-largest of the Channel Islands, behind
Jersey and Guernsey, located 8 miles from France, and 60
miles from the UK. One of the less-visited Islands, Alderney is
still refreshingly uncommercialised – but with modern luxuries,
beautiful beaches and sumptuous accommodation – offering
a unique holiday experience to, in my opinion, rival any of the
other more popular islands.
As the closest of the Channel Islands to the south coast of
Great Britain Aurigny Air Services (aurigny.com) offers direct
flights from Southampton in just 40 minutes. Ideal for me,
living just a 10-minute drive from Southampton Airport, and
made getting to the island a breeze. Flights from other airports
require a transfer in the small, friendly airport on Guernsey, so
a little more complicated, maybe, but ultimately still worth it to
experience this hidden gem.
Alderney’s simple way of life and breathtaking scenery
provides the space to reflect and feel blissfully rejuvenated
– complete escapism from our modern world. There are no
crowds, no queues, and no traffic - just fresh air, incredible
wildlife, an abundance of flora and fauna, and around 50 miles
of footpaths and ancient trails to explore. The historic town of
St Anne, intriguing Roman forts and Victorian defences are
fascinating - and the island naturally lends itself to an outdoor
lifestyle, kayaking, hiking, cycling, swimming. à
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