Hotel de France's grand perch on a hill above the town of St. Helier befits its majestic exterior from a gilded age long past. It's a four-pearl destination hotel for big events and spa weekends, with huge gorgeous grounds that other hotels in town can't match. The luxurious Ayush Wellness Spa could compete with any on the mainland in service and sophistication. Dining options, including a gourmet Indian restaurant, are generally excellent, and breakfast is included in the room rate. The rooms are the only downside -- they are either small and dated or "contemporary" and bland, holding little of the allure of the rest of the hotel.

Hotel La Place paints a pretty picture in the Jersey countryside with its stone cottages and restored medieval farmhouse building. A brick-lined courtyard pool and garden patio give this four-pearl property a resort-like atmosphere that's only heightened by its pastoral locale. It's a bit off the road from the cultural center of St. Helier and not within walking distance of anything but is conveniently close to the airport. The rooms are elegant from top to bottom, and the restaurant serves food to match. Couples seeking a romantic retreat and others just looking for a quiet escape might relish the slight isolation here.