Interesting fact about Jersey: there are no grey squirrels on the island. There are lots of red ones though. And toads. Lots of toads (in fact, native Jèrriais are known as les crapauds). One of the island's little nocturnal thrills is shining a torch light on the abundant amphibians who freeze under the spotlight. Well, we did say 'little' thrills.... Toad-teasing aside, we know just the perfect base for exploring Jersey's many charms.
From it's enviably elevated plot overlooking desirable St Aubin Bay, the views from Clifden are pretty special. With such a charming harbour scene of boundless cerulean blue dotted with cruising pleasure yachts, some campsites (we won't deign to mention) might think this enough to pull the punters in – neglecting the nuts and bolts of what makes a decent campsite a cool campsite. We're happy to report no such case at Clifden.
This onetime Jersey farm-cum-glampsite is run by the lovely Mesch clan. Helmed by none-more-hospitable hosts Andy and Catherine, guests at this luxurious, eco-friendly site are in good hands. From the moment of arrival till that heavy-hearted goodbye, Clifden's glampers are lavished with little touches of thoughtful luxury.
The site comprises three luxury 16ft yurts – each individually decorated, nestled in its own private green area, and sharing spectacular sea views. The 'Harbour Retreat' and 'Forest Green' yurts are perfect for that romantic retreat, while the nautical-themed 'Ship Ahoy' sleeps four making it perfect for the family. Glamping families can also use the adjacent 'Pirate's Den' mini-yurt for kids to sleep, extra storage, or simply for the littl'uns to play Treasure Island.
All the yurts are tastefully decked out with quirky, lovingly restored furniture (think ship's ladders as towel rails), a wood-burning stove for chillier evenings, BBQs, picnic tables and benches, and sun-loungers. Guests will also find cosy handmade blankets and a complimentary welcome pack with all the basics and some homemade luxury treats (like we said, little touches). And when you're chilling in the hot-tub (that's right), admiring the picture-postcard seaside vista, your cares will seem as distant as those elusive grey squirrels.
St. Aubin's two beaches are just a 7 minute stroll from camp. Head to St. Aubin's bay for watersports or Belcroute Bay for secluded swimming. The Jersey War Tunnels (01534 860808) tells the harrowing story of the island's occupation during World War II. La Hougue Bie Museum (01534 853823) brings Jersey's neolithic past to life – be sure to visit the ancient tomb that pre-dates the pyramids. For old and young alike, Jersey's Living Legend Village boasts go karting, adventure golf and a multimedia history exhibition with cameos from some of Britain's best-loved screen stars.
Cook your own in 'The Lookout' communal kitchen – you'll find lots of lovely homegrown Clifden produce including jams, chutneys and, depending on the season, a small variety of lovely veg. Jersey is spoilt with lots of lovely produce, Unsurprisingly seafood is a big feature on the island's menu – hit one of the ubiquitous seafood vans for chancre crab, spider crab, lobster, fresh scallops, oysters and, if you're lucky, ormers. Stock up on cheese, meat and bread at La Belle Gourmande, a cracking deli just a couple of minutes walk from Clifden. And for that end of holiday treat, Cheffins (01534 747118) serves sophisticated dishes in swanky surroundings.
