The Hotel
Jersey – again. I’ve fallen head over heels in love with this beautiful little island. Admittedly (because this site is all about honesty), the hotel isn’t located in the most glamorous part of the island. The east in undoubtedly the most scenic, but the west, where Longueville Manor is situated needs a little further exploring to discover its true potential. That saying when you’re in the grounds of this luxurious hotel you’d have no idea where you were staying. You feel as if you’ve been swept away into a fairytale, with a spectacularly warm greeting at the beginning of it, plus the smell of a roaring fire and food wafting out from the kitchens. Also it’s not particularly quiet which is nice, there’s conversation in every corner and a constant clink of Champagne glasses. Pass the front entrance and head through the back doors to discover some unexpected and magnificent grounds. Lush green turf rolls into the picturesque pond and vivid blue pool. It’s like a dream here and you instantly feel rejuvenated just by looking at it all. The hotels owners, Malcolm and Patricia Lewis have done a superb job here. Originally restored back in 1949, it wasn’t until 1971 that the hotel started to be recognised around the world, winning awards and accolades. Longueville Manor was even the first hotel in Jersey to have its own outdoor swimming pool.
The Grounds/What To Do
We spent one night at Longueville Manor and while it will never be enough time to spend at such a gorgeous hotel, Jersey is small enough for you to be able to explore a lot of what it has to offer in a relatively short time. Buses and taxis are within easy reach and very well priced, which is a good thing because there is so much to see and do – so you’ll want to get planning and booking in advance. The hotel has one of the most beautiful private gardens on the island, complete with tranquil daffodil lined pond, vivid blue pool and even its own Victorian kitchen garden. There’s also a hidden retreat for those in need of a little pampering. If you fancy exploring the surrounding areas of the hotel then head into either St Aubin, the main Parish of St Helier or the fishing village of Gorey. St Aubin features a gorgeous bay which looks out over the Gulf of Saint-Malo and offers some fantastic places to eat, drink and relax. Gorey however was our favourite place to visit, with a huge castle at its centre and fabulous array of small bars and restaurant, most notably Longueville Manor’s sister restaurant, Sumas – which was the best meal I ate while staying in Jersey. For a full guide on what to do while staying in Jersey visit www.jersey.com.
The Rooms
We stayed in a deluxe room here at Longueville Manor, with a good-sized double bed, own patio with views over the pool and a beautiful bathroom. No matter what room you’re booked into you’ll always feel like luxury is only just around the corner, whether that be the REN toiletries, Champagne waiting for you in room or freshly picked rose in the bathroom. For your convenience you’ll also find a desk space, lounge area, flat screen TV, robes, slippers and fresh fruit. If you have the budget then upgrade to a junior suite, they look stunning.
The Spa/Gym/Health & Fitness
Longueville Manor is home to its very own health club for those in need of relaxation. Aptly named The Cottage Garden because of its peaceful sanctuary location, hidden deep in the hotel grounds you can expect a warm greeting and a range of treatments to divulge in. Many of the therapies are fruit and herb based through a unique circle of relationships between the kitchen gardener, the chef and the therapist. During the summer months you can enjoy the outdoor activities such as the swimming pool, tennis, croquet, fitness centre and jogging trails, not to mention the outdoor hot tub – perfect to enjoy a glass of bubbles in. If you’d rather venture further afield then explore the islands many walking trails by foot or island sporting activities.
The Food & Drink
One of this hotels biggest assets is of course its food. The proud home to one of Jersey’s best restaurant is overseen by head chef, Andrew Baird who has helped developed the cuisine here for over 25 years, utilising the best produce Jersey has to offer – including some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste. Be sure to also enjoy a pre-dinner drink in the bar as the team really know how to whip up a cocktail. You can read all about my dining experience at the Longueville Manor Restaurant HERE. Breakfast is served in the main restaurant, with an a la carte offering and continental buffet selection. If you’re looking for an alternative to formal dining then head over to the hotels sister restaurant in the village of Gorey, Sumas – I wrote all about it in my REVIEW.
The Verdict
Longueville Manor is truly a hotel experience like no other. It’s classy, sumptuous, addictive and incredibly relaxing. I may have drunk more Champagne than I have in my entire life here but that’s surely saying something about the hotel – you simply can’t help but indulge. One night, as with any hotel on this island will never be enough to explore it all, but it’s a good start and will only leaving you wanting to coming back for more. It’s no wonder this tiny island is consistently voted as one of the best places to holiday in the UK. If a world-class dining experience and a hotel to always be in your dream is what you’re looking for then search no further – Longueville Manor has it all.
Longueville Manor
Longueville Rd
St.Saviour
Jersey
JE2 7WF
Tel: +44 1534 725501
The hotel looks utterly gorgeous and that food!!
Author
It was gorgeous!