As I hope this issue once again shows, we are spoiled for choice living in the British Isles. There are so many wonderful destinations to visit, whether on a staycation or visiting from overseas, and I hope our magazine will inspire you to extend your holiday - or book another! Highlights this issue include a wonderful 48 hours in Alderney, an epic journey through the heart of Scotland, from Edinburgh to the Caledonian Forest, and finding utter bliss at the new idyllic riverside luxury estate, Monkey Island, near Bray.
48 hours in ALDERNEY
48 hours in ALDERNEY From a Roman fort to uncrowded beaches, sense the magic in Alderney, a warm, peaceful and relaxing escape in the Channel Islands, where you can fully unwind. Breathe, relax, and enjoy “the Alderney feeling” Words | Jessica Way 72 BritishTravelJournal.com Braye Beach
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 BritishTravelJournal.com 73
