A unique and comprehensive tour of the Channel Islands, from Jersey’s beautiful bays and traditional towns to Guernsey’s lovely beaches, not forgetting Herm and Sark, where there are no cars. Explore, relax and unwind in the mild climates of the charming Channel Islands.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
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Travel by train and stay overnight in Bournemouth
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Take the ferry to and from the Channel Islands
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Enjoy a ‘round island’ tour of Jersey
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Spot Jersey cows grazing in peaceful fields
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Stay at one of the Guernsey’s most popular hotels, with stunning sea views and beach walks
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Relax and experience the island life and mild climate
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Guided coach tour of Guernsey’s most picturesque scenes, rich heritage, and horticulture
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Horse & carriage tour of idyllic Isle of Sark
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Visit the island of Herm, where there is a ‘no cars’ policy
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Relax in beautiful St Peter Port
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Spend your first and final nights in Bournemouth, returning home at leisure
Also included in your Tour Fare:
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Dinner every evening
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Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class)
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Ferries and coach travel, as described
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Services of experienced Tour Manager
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Hotel porterage in Bournemouth and Jersey
Quote & Bookings: info@experienceuk.com.au
Additional information
| Prices from | AUD$2999.00 per person twin/double share |
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19 May 2024
09 June 2024
10 July 2024
19 September 2024
Quote & Bookings: info@experienceuk.com.au
Day 1
We spend our first relaxing evening at our hotel in Bournemouth, Dorset’s delightful coastal resort. (Dinner included)
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. (Breakfast & Dinner included)
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. (Breakfast & Dinner included)
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. (Breakfast & Dinner included)
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. (Breakfast & Dinner included)
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. (Breakfast & Dinner included)
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. (Breakfast & Dinner included)
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, from where we transfer to our hotel in Bournemouth for our final night. (Breakfast & Dinner included)
Day 9
This morning we bid farewell to Bournemouth and join our trains to homeward destinations. (Breakfast included)
* Crossing times subject to ferry published timetable and conditions.
** Please note for the September departure, we visit Guernsey first and then Jersey.
Quote & Bookings: info@experienceuk.com.au
HOTELS
Merton Hotel, Jersey
A short walk through a park to central St. Helier’s attractions, the 3-star Merton is in a quiet residential area. There is a wide range of amenities on site with bars, restaurants, and free entertainment, as well as indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, café, and gym.
Peninsula Hotel, Guernsey
A 3-star hotel located on a small peninsula with a wonderful view over Grand Havre Bay, you can stroll to a lovely sheltered sandy beach at the edge of 5 acres of private landscaped gardens. All bedrooms are en-suite and have satellite TV, hair dryer, telephone and tea / coffee making facilities. Leisure facilities include an outdoor swimming pool (heated).
Suncliff Hotel, Bournemouth (May first overnight and June overnights)
Situated on the town’s East Cliff, the 3 star Suncliff hotel’s unique position means many of the rooms have stunning sea views. All modern en-suite bedrooms are tastefully decorated and there are plenty of public areas where guests can relax. The restaurant is traditional in design. Leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool and sauna.
Marsham Court Hotel, Bournemouth (May last overnight)
The 3-star family-run Marsham Court Hotel offers stunning views over Bournemouth Bay, and a great blend of seaside ambience and contemporary feel. Bournemouth seafront and town centre are within a 5-10 minute walk. Recently renovated, the spacious bedrooms all have a TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel offers restaurant, bar, lounge and outdoor swimming pool.
Mercure Queens Hotel & Spa, Bournemouth (July & September overnights)
Ideally situated in the heart of Bournemouth, a short walk from the town centre and beach. The 4-star Queens Hotel boasts superb leisure facilities including a gym, heated indoor pool, sauna, and steam room. The comfortable bedrooms include TV, tea/coffee making facilities and Wi-Fi. The hotels has a stylish brasserie restaurant, cocktail bar and coffee shop.
Quote & Bookings: info@experienceuk.com.au
- 8 nights’ bed, breakfast & Table d’hôte evening meal
- Rail travel, and seat reservations, from your Home Station (Standard or First Class)
- to Bournemouth
- Return Condor Ferry crossings to Jersey/Guernsey
- Connecting coach travel, with transfers as described
- All excursions and admissions as detailed
- Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager
- Hotel porterage in Bournemouth and Jersey
Quote & Bookings: info@experienceuk.com.au
