SAMPLE ITINERARY

A local ferry connects Jersey and Guernsey.

Suggested itinerary, which can be tailor made to your requirements:

• Jersey - 4 nights

• Guernsey - 3 nights

Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands and offers the greatest selection of hotels and activities. It is has some of the best sandy beaches, and a 50 mile network of ‘Green Lanes’ where pedestrians, cyclists & horse riders have priority over vehicles. You can fly from various airports in the UK, with local car hire arranged on request, but be aware that some hotels in St Helier have limited or no parking. You can also self-drive, taking the ferry from Poole.

The compact capital of St Helier is located on the south of the island, with Liberation Square at its epicentre. In these charming pedestrianised streets, stylish hotels, designer boutiques, fashionable cocktail bars and Michelin-starred restaurants jostle for attention. There are also plenty of galleries, as well as the Jersey Museum and Maritime Museum waiting to be explored. Elizabeth Castle, set on a rocky outcrop overlooking St Aubin’s Bay, has defended Jersey for over 300 years. It can be reached on foot during low tide or by the amphibious Castle Ferry. The Botanic Gardens at Samares Manor are also well worth a visit. The two-day Battle of the Flowers festival takes place on Jersey in August each year, with early booking essential to secure accommodation and parade tickets.

At the western end of beautiful St Aubin’s Bay, with its vast beach popular for swimming and water sports, you will find a pretty fishing village of the same name. Just inland you can explore the Jersey War Tunnels, a chilling reminder of German occupation during Word War Two. Further west, St Brelade’s Bay is arguably the most famous beach on Jersey, due to its sheltered location and very safe bathing. Beach wheelchairs are available here.

The wilder and more rugged western side of Jersey is wonderful for walking, with a moderate 7 mile trail from Plemont Bay to the iconic Corbiere Lighthouse taking in the entire length of the west coast. You will also find the Jersey Wetland Centre here. The scenic north of the island is hilly, with steep cliffs and hidden bays offering more challenging walking.

The Durrell Wildlife Conservation Park is located here and you can stay overnight in their wildlife camp. La Mare Wine Estate offers wine & chocolate tours and tastings, and Greve de Lecq is the north’s most popular beach. The east of the island has a multitude of picturesque towns, including the fishing port of Gorey which is overlooked by historic Mont Orgueil Castle.

Resembling famous Mont Saint-Michel in France, this castle protected Jersey from invasion by the French over 600 years ago and has a labyrinth of secret staircases and rooms. The beaches here are tidal and more secluded, revealing many rocks, reefs and pools at low tide. Try Anne Port Bay and Havre de Fer, but take care with the tides which can be extreme. Inland you can find the La Hougue Bie Museum, a Neolithic site with a well preserved passage grave and medieval chapel.

Note: Jersey Heritage Pass gives unlimited access to Mont Orgueil Castle, Elizabeth Castle, La Hougue Bie Museum, Jersey Museum & the Maritime Museum.

Scenic Guernsey has inspired writers and artists for generations. French poet Victor Hugo was exiled here for 14 years, during which he completed Les Miserables and the painter Renoir was mesmerised by the shimmering light of Moulin Huet Bay. The capital is St Peter Port, a sparkling marina filled with yachts and fishing boats. Roads are steep and often cobbled and fresh crab, lobster and prawn regularly feature on the menu. For six weeks during October and November, the fabulous Tennerfest food festival is held here.

Lovely green spaces include Saumarez Park and the flowers of the Candie Gardens. Picturesque Fermain Bay can only be reached on foot. The island is steeped in history, having been occupied by Nazi Germany during World War Two, and you can visit the German Underground Hospital. The 800 year old Castle Cornet that guards the harbour is another must-see, complete with its noon-day gun fired by scarlet-clad gunners. Traditionally this island has attracted families looking for a relaxing beach holiday, as its coastline is spectacular, but couples are increasingly discovering it, as Guernsey has become more fashionable.

Note: Be aware that some hotels in St Helier & St Peter Port have limited or no parking & public car parks in St Peter Port require a parking clock, which can be purchased locally or on the ferry. Dogs can be taken on board the ferry. A dog passport is not required for travel between the UK and Channel Islands.

PRICING

Price is based on two adults sharing en-suite accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis. Condor ferry from Poole to Jersey; local ferry from Jersey to Guernsey; and return Condor ferry from Guernsey are all included.

We offer a choice of hotels at different prices, so please discuss your requirements with us. All hotels are subject to availability.

Photographic ID is required to travel to the Channel Islands (e.g. passport). It is essential that you have personal holiday insurance, and an appropriate driving licence. The FCO should also be consulted.