Time for some Channel-hopping

If the imminent end of the shooting season has you feeling bleak, set sail for one of these luxury retreats on the underappreciated but exquisite Channel Islands

- Felix Petit

Longueville Manor, Jersey

With that French feel, plenty of sun but no need to dust off your Collins phrase book, Jersey is just the ticket and Longueville Manor is the pick of the litter. A handsome 14th-century mansion situated on the outskirts of St Helier, Longueville Manor is numbered among Jersey's finest boutique hotels and one of only three privately owned AA five-star hotels in the British Isles. Run by the Lewis family since 1949, a stay feels like being a guest at a smart house party given by one of your most generous friends. This sense is only enhanced by the 29 individually styled rooms, oak-panelled dining room, crackling open fires and low-lit bar.

Food is at the centre of the experience for this Michelin Key hotel. The restaurant uses vegetables grown in its Victorian kitchen garden, honey from the 12 onsite hives, scallops hand-dived by head chef of 30 years Andrew Baird, and oysters from private beds at Grouville barely a mile away (seaside tastings can be arranged). In addition, the hotel boasts a state-of-the-art, temperature-controlled, 5,000-bottle wine cellar; a boutique spa; a tennis court; 18 acres of woodland gardens; and the option to charter its luxury yacht for trips around the island.