We're just back from a week in Sark. Only it feels like we've been away far longer. I think that's probably down to the nature of the place - its a tiny island, with only 600 or so permanent inhabitants, whose ranks are swelled in the summer by people like my sister-in-law's family, who spend part of their time on the island, kicking back in an atmosphere far removed from everyday life.
Some of that atmosphere is no doubt generated by the lack of cars on the island. Running errands and exploring by bike is far more fun, and removing the fear of traffic, gives the children a much higher level of freedom.
Though, to be fair, what they wanted to do most was just to hang out with their cousins. I didn't grow up with extended family, and it's always a bit of a treat watching my boys do so.
The garden of the house is truly spectacular. Outdoor rooms, with their own atmospheres, lush growth and imaginative planting. This is the herb garden.
And there were the most amazing plant combinations, which I always think is the hardest trick to pull off in any garden.
Not the kind of week you can pop into a travel agent and pick out of a brochure. Thank you Tess - unforgettable.
Now we are back, and I am full of energy and conscious that these are the last few weeks of summer holiday remaining. There are shoe buying trips to squeeze in, play dates with chums and perhaps one last little break away from home yet to come. It's turning out to be a very good summer indeed.
I'm so glad you are having such a wonderful summer. And that is the second place I have seen in blogland today that I want to see before I am an old crone!
Posted by: mary | 19 August 2010 at 10:18
Looks like you have had two lovely holidays this summer - both looked like very relaxing, peaceful breaks.
And you still have a little bit of home time left. I remember those return to school shoe buying trips. Don't you think adults should be entitled to them too?! x
Posted by: PinkCat | 19 August 2010 at 10:50
Very glad to hear it.
Posted by: The Coffee Lady | 19 August 2010 at 10:57
How lovely, I lived in Jersey many moons ago and had some wonderful, memorable times in Sark, it's a very special place. Love your photos.
Posted by: harmonyandrosie | 19 August 2010 at 14:43
It looks really beautiful! I went to a car free island in Greece last year and it was just so amazing to hear the mules clip-clopping their way up the paths....I can understand why you feel you've been away for ages!
Posted by: Di | 19 August 2010 at 17:10
It looks wonderful Ali! Enjoy the rest of the summer! x
Posted by: simone | 19 August 2010 at 17:13
It sounds and looks like an amazing place!
Posted by: Joyti | 20 August 2010 at 08:54
oh, that's beautiful. i love the font on that sign.
Posted by: melissa | 20 August 2010 at 09:07
You choose some amazing places to go on holiday! It looks very peaceful and restful.
We are squeezing in another trip next week to make the most of the last bit of the summer holidays.
Posted by: French Knots | 20 August 2010 at 12:13
what a perfect holiday to truly get away! Enjoy the rest of the summer.
Posted by: Jennifer | 20 August 2010 at 13:10
Oh that looks and sounds like the most wonderful place! Such a gorgeous garden. And I love the idea of bicycling without worrying about traffic. Were you tempted by the For Sale sign?! K x
Posted by: kristina | 20 August 2010 at 13:12
Beautiful pictures, Ali! They make me want to take the next train to Sark, a place I'd never heard of before. Oh, that garden! I am now officially enchanted by the notion of an outdoor room and feel I must have one in my backyard. Off to go build ...
xfrances
Posted by: frances | 21 August 2010 at 15:12
Heavens -- sounds idyllic! Love the dreamy photo of the bike.
Blessings,
G
Posted by: Firefly | 21 August 2010 at 16:11
The lackk of traffic and noise sounds like one of the best parts.
Was there any seaglass in the end?
Posted by: Emma | 22 August 2010 at 09:02