The Moorings
Gallic charmer
Jersey shore
Bringing together coast, countryside, photogenic harbour towns and fine food – all on an easy-to-navigate island – Jersey is a shrewd choice for a few days away; and making the Moorings in Gorey Pier your base, an astute move. This restaurant with rooms is all about the food, you might say: popular with locals and guests alike for its Gallic-flavoured fare. But the Moorings is about signature cocktails (barrel-aged negronis, Moorings campari spritz), too, and a celebration of bonhomie that begins with apéritifs at the bar and culminates in nightcaps after dinner. It’s about cosy, luxe rooms and owners Matthew and Iselin’s local knowledge, which means making the most of your time here becomes effortless. The hotel’s location in the island’s scenic east puts beaches, castles and cliff-top walks right on your doorstep.
Planes
Jersey Airport has connecting flights to the British mainland and is a 30-minute drive from the Moorings. The hotel can arrange private transfers from £35 each way.
Automobiles
Owners Matthew and Iselin recommend transfers from the ferry or airport, as once in situ at the Moorings, you’re unlikely to need four wheels. Cycling is popular (you can hire e-bikes through the hotel) and there are scenic walks from the door, plus you’re on the main island bus routes. For determined drivers, there’s paid street parking in front of the hotel, or free public parking on the seafront.
Worth Getting Out of Bed For
Pure Yin oversees a programme of pilates and yoga classes at the hotel’s studio. You can hike around the island with the 48-mile Jersey Coastal Path, a rugged trail of cliff climbs and windswept descents that rewards you with stunning seascapes along the way. Cycle paths, green lanes and coastal routes ribbon the island, encouraging even the most leisurely of cyclists back into the saddle – as does the option to hire e-bikes through the hotel. In front of the hotel, there’s a sandy beach – part of the old harbour – or down the slipway, you can catch some rays (weather permitting) on the sunbathers’ beach. For a secluded swimming spot, ask about bathing behind the castle. That’ll be mediaeval Mont Orgueil castle, which looms over the hotel and is open for guided tours of its 800-year-old battlements, statues and modern art installations. Shopping in Gorey involves a smattering of gift shops and boutiques, or you could head into St Helier and the brick-gabled boutiques of Liberty Wharf, as well as larger stores (such as De Gruchy department store) on King Street and Queen Street. With a 12-metre tidal range, Jersey’s coastline is dynamic and a guided fishing trip allows you to land catch from a boat or wade out at low tide to fish from exposed islets.
