Jersey, Guernsey, Herm & Sark

DAY 1

We spend our first relaxing evening at our hotel in Bournemouth, Dorset's delightful coastal resort.

DAY 2

This morning we cross the English Channel aboard Condor Ferries** to Jersey* and transfer to the Merton Hotel, St Saviour. Jersey is renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery, peaceful green lanes and fields dotted with Jersey cows. Jersey is the most populous of the Channel Islands, yet retains a charming ambience. Originally part of the Duchy of Normandy, the Channel Islands were joined with us by the Norman Conquest. When Normandy itself was lost by the English Kings, the Channel Islands remained. Although not part of the United Kingdom, the population retain much cultural common ground with Britain, whilst enjoying a more continental climate.

DAY 3

Our full day 'Round Island' excursion includes the beautiful bay of St Brelade's, a sweeping bay whose golden sands have been voted within the top three beaches of Britain. Jersey's west coast is five miles long and at least three miles are covered by golden sands, such as at St Ouen's Bay, and we also see the iconic Corbiere Lighthouse, perched on a rock just off the island's southwestern shore. During the day we also visit the charming harbour village of St Aubin's, as well as Jersey Pearl, before returning to the hotel.

DAY 4

After yesterday's introduction to the island, today is spent at leisure on Jersey. Perhaps walk via the pretty Howard Davis Park for shopping in central St Helier or take the 'Hop-On Hop-Off' bus for visits to attractions such as the world-famous Durrell Wildlife Park. Alternatively, visit the fascinating Jersey War Tunnels, a partially completed underground hospital complex in St. Lawrence, built by German occupying forces during the occupation of Jersey during World War II. Over 1 km of tunnels were completed. After the liberation of the Channel Islands, the complex was converted into a museum detailing the occupation and remains an interesting visitor attraction.

DAY 5

Today we cross to Guernsey* by ferry, enjoying an orientation tour by coach, uncovering the north of the island, with the wonderful seascapes of Bordeaux, Pembroke, and L'Ancesse Bays, before settling into the superbly located Peninsula Hotel on the northwest coast. The rest of the day is then free to relax and enjoy your new surroundings with their peaceful sandy beach and private landscaped gardens.

DAY 6

After a relaxing morning on Guernsey, our afternoon excursion is to the beautiful Herm Island. There are no cars and no pressure, just an active policy of preserving the island's pristine natural environment and peacefulness. Located just three miles from Guernsey, the only way to arrive on Herm Island is by boat. For many people, a trip to Herm is a like a pilgrimage into the nostalgia of simpler times, a ritual that allows them to forget the day-to-day demands of modern living and embrace the island's natural tranquility.

DAY 7

Today we cruise to the Isle of Sark, another world apart from the hustle and bustle of daily life. We tour this marvellous, car-free haven by horse and carriage. This tranquil hideaway, with lush, dazzling wildflowers and secluded sandy beaches surrounded by huge cliffs, coves, and caves is a true Channel Island gem. The horse-drawn carriages trundle along the island's charming roads, which are also enjoyed by cyclists and those on foot, but not by motorists. After another nostalgic excursion, why not finish your visit with a Sark cream tea.

DAY 8

This morning we transfer to Guernsey's capital of St Peter Port, with one of the most beautiful harbours in Europe surrounded by great history in cobbled streets. In the afternoon our ferry** departs for Poole, where we transfer to our hotel in Bournemouth for our final night.

DAY 9

Today we bid farewell to Bournemouth and join our trains to homeward destinations.

*Please note in July & September we visit Guernsey first then Jersey.
** Crossing times subject to ferry published timetable and conditions.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner