St Brelade's Bay Hotel — Hotel in St. Brelade

Five days in one of Jersey’s finest hotels allow for a in-depth-review here.

Our room was a twin „under the roof“ on the 4th floor with full sea view. Extremely large with a more than spacious bathroom. Could make up as „adjoining room“ with connecting door — which has a hear-through-able downside. Beds are quite comfy but far too short for the category of the hotel. I am 6ft3,5 and that was the exact length of the mattress. At least four better eight more inches would be appropriate. Room cleanliness was ok-ish, but the carpet was dated and a bit worn and had stains in it, the room is ready for intense refurbishment („Corbiere 2“). The window frames (who would not pop out all windows to listen to the waves of the sea on the beach?) should be cleaned, this is a no-go for a hotel of this price category.

For those „from the continent“: TV is UK only. Strictly, not a single foreign channel. This is more than unusual nowadays and should be upgraded.

The hotel itself is dominant closest possible to the beach with panoramic views from the ground floor rooms over nearly the whole beach. The meticulously maintained huge garden in the rear is extremely nice to stay in or take a swim in the large pool.

A modern gym is adjacent and can be used with no extra charge. Standard equipment from a good brand („TechnoGym“) allows for good exercises.

The hotel bar is very nice to look at, the bar menu is promising and well calculated, same goes for drinks and cocktails.

Staff is generally very attentive and mostly very well trained which is a rarity nowadays. Very many are from Portugal, mostly from Madeira.

Breakfast is very nice with very well chosen products and obviously no „money-counting“ for the different ingredients on offer. Everything is of high quality and well prepared. Though one should have more a „sweet tooth“ with very sugary recipes used even for the prepared yoghurt-fruit-glasses. Bacon is only available in english version, streaky is not popular. Coffee is well brewed with a twist to Portuguese taste as there is some chocolate-taste in it. Astonishingly well made bread be it brown or white.

Did not try the diner which is served as half-board or daily via selection from the menu.

The premises are generally in good condition though everything has the charm of the 80s — decor, furniture even audible entertainment is of that era. Those seeking modern comfort and amenities should look elsewhere, this house is a nod to the past.

Parking is on both sides of the hotel, the large space under the gym can be used too, so the car does not have to stay exposed to the elements.

Some things should be looked into by the management because either they are inconvenient or a real downside. Most importantly the housekeeping simply cannot quit service and leave the toilets unattended in the later evening. Those elderly guests need some more intense cleaning up in higher frequency with bar hours later the night, to give You an image. The entrance hall is so nicely proportioned and classic to look at with the wooden staircase — and then let down by the reception desk. No one greets guests because the main desk is on the side and not welcoming the guests who enter from the street. As if it is a „hide and seek“ game? Entrance should urgently be decluttered from handcarts and cheapish coat stand which are functional but ugly but also distract from the high standard the hotel is claiming for itself. Only one small lift available which in high season may be insufficient.

It is on the pricier side, Saint Brelade itself is not very attractive to stroll through and has very few alternatives on offer apart from rather costly things on the beachfront. It is extremely nice to look at and enjoy — and this has to be paid for with higher room rates.

Public transport is poor with only two lines.

So this is not a „recommendation for all“ — one should carefully consider location and character of the house to avoid...

“ A Slice of Heaven “

How I absolutely love this hotel! It’s truly one of my all-time favourite places to visit and without question, the best hotel in Jersey.

What makes St Brelades Bay Hotel so exceptional isnt just the stunning setting (though the views are glorious and the location idyllic), but the incredible staff, who transform an already beautiful hotel into something truly magical.

From the moment you book, the five-star experience begins thanks to the wonderful Jack head of reservations. He goes above and beyond every time to make your stay the best it can be.

The reception and concierge team are simply outstanding. Dear Stephen, who’s been part of the fabric of the hotel for years, is one of the kindest gentlemen you will ever meet leaving when he is on duty is always emotional (yes, I’ve cried!). Then theres the lovely Elliot, Steve, Annalise, and Caitlin who organise all the fun extras and are an absolute joy to be around. Kaylene, sweet Dishan (a hit with the kids!), Tobias, Rutna, and Aidan you a re all fantastic. Thank you for your constant warmth and professionalism.

The pool bar is a hidden gem with a fabulous Caribbean twist, thanks to the team from the hotels sister property, The Lone Star in Barbados. Their infectious energy and charm bring sunshine to every guests day. The radiant Katrina greets you like family. Eddie is a darling, Fiona floats effortlessly ensuring all is well, and Drew is a bundle of energy always on hand to make a snazzy rum cocktail!

At the lobby bar, you will find fabulous Lorraine, a Marvel-loving Scot with a heart of gold, along with the ever-charming Andre, and cocktail masters Pedro and Ines who create the most delicious drinks.

Dining at The Bay is an experience in itself. Breakfasts and dinners are sublime thanks to a top-tier kitchen team who consistently create phenomenal dishes. And of course, the dining room staff are every bit as wonderful: lovely Licinio, Leon, Leo, Ricardo, Andrea, Soubaj, dear Radu, and Henry (or is it Harry? Forgive me!) there are so many of you and I truly adore you all.

Housekeeping is impeccably efficient, professional, trustworthy, and so often unsung, yet essential to the hotels excellence.

The gardens are a work of art immaculate and award-winning. You’ll likely see Sergio, the ever-charming gardener, pottering about, quietly keeping everything pristine with his talented team.

Lastly, the management a huge thank you to dear Stuart who’s been there for years and always makes time for his guests. Thomas the new General Manager and Thomas head of operations you are marvellous! Unlike some hotels where management is invisible, these gentlemen are always present and genuinely engaged with guests. I met them only once (they’ve recently joined) and was immediately impressed, they’re steering the ship with great care and heart. The hotel is truly in the best hands.

I’ve been coming for years and have introduced dozens of friends and family, all of whom have fallen in love with it and returned. Once you experience St Brelades Bay Hotel, it becomes part of you. The only question is….”when are you...

Upon our arrival we were greeted by Stephen (the head porter), our bags were taken from us and we were offered a chilled glass of orange juice whilst we were checked in. We made our way up to our room (86 - sea view balcony) and our bags were only a minute or two behind us. Our room was just large enough, the king-sized bed was really comfortable, the bathroom was fab, and the balcony had the best view of St Brelade's bay just over the road. We walked on the beach and then swam in the sea or outdoor pool every morning, the pool opened at 8:00 and had towels and adjoining changing facilities. The gym/indoor pool opened at 6:00, and whilst it was all fab we preferred being outdoors. Breakfast was spot on, we had a great self-service choice and could also order from a good selection - I ordered omelettes and vegetarian sausages most mornings. The waiting staff were among the most professional I've ever met (Hilary was our favourite - he was always smiling) and our greeter Leo was just the nicest chap ever (he's worked there for sixty years...). We only ate dinner in the hotel once, as there is a great selection of restaurants within easy walking distance, and it was excellent - but a couple of vegan, and a few more vegetarian dishes, would be a great addition. As with most top hotels it's the amazing staff that make it such a great place (nothing was too much trouble for them and it was obvious that they all love what they do), along with the top location obviously. The service is professional, whilst the whole place has such a relaxed atmosphere - no need to wear long trousers and a tie for dining if you don't want to. It appears that most of the guests are regulars and I can fully understand why, we are already considering a...