From the water, Sark is an imposing island with craggy 100 metre cliffs rising straight out of the sea with the occasional beach or cove accessible by small footpaths. However, once on the plateau, you find a luxuriant green country of small fields dotted with thickly wooded valleys and criss-crossed by high-banked tracks. A timeless place for exploring on foot, by bicycle or by carriage, uninterrupted by cars, and although small in area, with 40 miles of coastline there is plenty to explore.

For youngsters a trip to Sark needn't mean endless boredom. There are always plenty of other young people visiting, so there shouldn't be any shortage of opponents for games of tennis, badminton or snooker. With no cars the roads are great for bicycle borne adventures, or on horseback. There are hundreds of ways of passing time on the beaches, exploring caves and rockpools and hunting for amethyst Sark stone. If simple outdoor pleasures have worn you out, a splash in the hotel pool and a delicious Sark ice-cream might help revive you. Children can also spend a day at The Yellow Brick Road Activity Centre. If all else fails, the hotel provides satellite TV and digital radio in addition to all the usual channels in all rooms. For those of drinking age, the Mermaid disco on a Tuesday or Saturday night is legendary.

Sark suits the outdoors enthusiast with miles of unspoiled walking, abundant wildlife, sheltered beaches and impressive vistas. That is not to say that there isn't plenty to do if you prefer a less active break. A carriage ride can be a wonderfully calming way to tour the island, the Seignurie gardens always make a relaxing stop and you could even have the Hotel provide a picnic for you. Perhaps the wonderful views will inspire your creative spirit - you could try your hand at painting, or fall back on the favourite destination of chocoholics - Caragh chocolates

Whatever you decide to do, the relaxed pace, friendly locals, beautiful scenery and unspoiled charm will surely make your visit a memorable one.