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Jersey is home to so many attractions it might not be possible to fit them all in during a single break - but there are five key sights that can be taken in on a short stay on the picturesque island. If you love castles, Jersey is home to two that are sure to pique your interest. Mont Orgueil Castle is known for protecting the island against French invaders for some 600 years and offers plenty of things to see and do for visitors. Why not head to the top of the castle to drink in some wonderful views of the nearby French coast, or perhaps climb the turrets for the intriguing sight of the medieval 'wheel of urine'? Travel down to the basement and you will be able to see an exhibit devoted to witchcraft, while frequent events at the castle do much to demonstrate what life was once like for its inhabitants. The other castle to see on Jersey holidays is Elizabeth Castle, which can be found on an islet located in St Aubin's Bay and is accessible via ferry or by foot at low tide. Building work on the structure first began towards the end of the 16th century and it has housed figures such as Sir Walter Raleigh and Charles II during its lifetime. You can see some fascinating re-enactments of important events in the history of the castle, while various other activities and displays can be seen throughout the year. If you love animals, the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust is one of the best Jersey attractions you could visit during your stay. Founded by Gerald Durrell, the writer and naturalist, the site serves as a sanctuary for more than 1,400 animals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. These include examples of over 130 endangered species, highlighting the important work carried out by the trust in terms of preserving some of the world's rarest creatures. Just a few of the birds and animals you can get to know include flamingos, meerkats, Sumatran orang-utans, howler monkeys, parrots, chameleons, tortoises and lemurs. You can also choose from specific packages that allow you to find out all about how to care for particular animals. Another popular attraction on the island is the Jersey War Tunnels. The tunnels - formerly known as Hohlgangsanlage 8 (Ho8) - were built by labourers working under the command of German forces who occupied Jersey for nearly five years during the second world war. It took almost three and a half years to construct the Ho8 tunnels, which now house galleries and exhibits that explain what life was like for both Jersey's residents and the labourers who were brought to the island from around Europe during the German occupation. Finally, one of Jersey's oldest and most interesting sights is La Hougue Bie, which dates back some 5,500 years and takes the form of a Neolithic burial mound complete with a dolmen and a chapel that was built in the Middle Ages. A dolmen is a stone structure that serves as a type of tomb and it is possible to explore the one here by heading inside - something that you cannot do at many other dolmens around the world. Make sure you visit the onsite museum to learn all about the area and its significance to our age-old ancestors, as well as the German command bunker that was built at La Hougue Bie during World War II. Jersey holidays offer the chance to see some fascinating historical and natural sights, If you're looking for ideas on Jersey attractions to see, or want to book a Jersey hotel for your next getaway, visit the Jersey Tourism website for inspiration and recommendations.
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