London to Paris via the Channel Islands 2021

Arrive in London this morning and make your way in to the heart of the English Capital. After checking in to your hotel, your afternoon is free for you to spend at your leisure either relaxing after your arrival journey or perhaps getting out to explore the city. London is a magnificent metropolis which combines a vibrant modern culture with a rich history and heritage. You may choose to visit a wealth of world renowned sights including Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, St Paul's Cathedral, Trafalgar Square and the London Eye on the banks of the River Thames. By evening, return to the tour hotel where we'll gather as a group with your tour leader and get to know one another over a welcome dinner.

Overnight: Wellington by Blue Orchid (or similar), London

Meals: Dinner included.

Today, we’ll head South through English countryside towards the South Coast. First stop will be the cathedral city of Winchester where we'll enjoy free-time to wander the historic town and visit the enchanting cathedral notable for is glorious Norman and Gothic architecture and stained glass windows which date back to the 7th century. Later we make our way to the ruins of Corfe Castle which enjoys over 1,000 years of diverse history and tranquil grassland views over The Purbeck Hills. Upon return, we travel to our hotel in Dorset, where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner.

Overnight: Morton’s House Hotel (or similar), Dorset

Meals: Breakfast and dinner included.

We’ll begin the day from boarding the ferry, which will take us to one of the Channel Islands – Guernsey, and its capital in St Peter Port. Depending on our arrival time, we may visit a historic Sausmarez Manor with charming gardens located in nearby St Martin, before enjoying the rest of your day at leisure in St Peter Port. Perhaps, take a walk to capital’s beautiful marina or explore Market Square with plethora of lovely cafés and restaurants.

Overnight: Duke of Richmond Hotel (or similar), Guernsey

Meals: Breakfast included.

This morning, we’ll take the ferry to a neighbouring island of Sark. Known as the Dark Sky Island thanks to exceptional blackness of the sky during night times and possibility to see the Milky Way on a clear sky night, this small isle is truly magical. With a ‘no cars’ policy on the island, Sark embraces old-fashioned charm. Having free time to spend as you please, perhaps enjoy a relaxing walk around the island stopping at viewpoints including the Lighthouse and Pilcher Monument; walk the La Coupée path to Little Sark with spectacular views either side; or admire island’s coastal landscapes from a horse-drawn carriage ride? We then return to Guernsey by ferry, where we’ll enjoy an included dinner together in our hotel.

Overnight: Duke of Richmond Hotel (or similar), Guernsey

Meals: Breakfast and dinner included.

Staying on Guernsey today, we’ll stop in the Little Chapel nestling in a picturesque valley. This tiny religious site covered with seashells, pebbles and colourful broken china is a true gem of the island. After a visit, we’ll make our way to German Occupation Museum. Exhibiting a rich collection of World War II artefacts and memorabilia, we’ll learn a bit more about realities of occupation times on the islands. Afterwards, enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Overnight: Duke of Richmond Hotel (or similar), Guernsey

Meals: Breakfast included.

After a relaxed morning, we’ll say goodbye to Guernsey and travel by ferry to the second main island of Channel Islands, Jersey. Alighting in St Aubin, we’ll explore this port village at own leisure. Perhaps take a stroll to its bay with plenty of boats bobbing in the harbour or visit some of the pubs overlooking the beach. Tonight, we will gather at the hotel to share thoughts of our day over an included dinner.

Overnight: Hotel Pomme d\'Or (or similar), Jersey

Meals: Breakfast and dinner included.

Today we will be visiting one of the oldest sites in the world at La Hougue Bie. This Passage Grave built in Neolithic era was in use around 3500 BC. Nowadays, it is a well-preserved site with adjoining museum. Step inside the chamber itself and learn about the purpose of the grave thanks to many archaeological and geological exhibits. Afterwards, we’ll move to Mont Orgueil Castle; a medieval castle dating back to the 13th century. Overlooking the charming harbour and the beach, the fortress is truly impressive. Wander around its walls and admire the views of the blue waters of English Channel from the tower. Upon return to the hotel, the rest of your day is free for you to spend at own leisure.

Overnight: Hotel Pomme d\'Or (or similar), Jersey

Meals: Breakfast included.

This morning, we’ll visit the historic Elizabeth Castle. Protecting its people since 16th century, the fortress gave a refuge to King Charles II during the English Civil War. Built on a rocky isle, it can be accessed by the causeway at low tide only or by the amphibious castle ferry. See the castle at your own pace discovering the wartime bunkers, the St Helier hermitage and admiring the breath-taking views of the coast. In the afternoon, we’ll reach the second country on our list – France. Crossing by ferry to the port town of Saint-Malo, you’ll have a free time to discover this spectacular city. Tomorrow, we’ll enjoy an orientation tour of further parts of Saint-Malo.

Overnight: Grand Hotel de Courtoisville (or similar), Saint-Malo

Meals: Breakfast included.

After breakfast, it is time for our orientation tour of Saint-Malo’s labyrinthine streets. Led by our expert Tour Leader, we’ll then pay the visit to the impressive Château de Saint-Malo. Dating 15th century, this charming medieval castle has wonderful views for the port and the coast from its watchtowers. Following the visit, enjoy the rest of your afternoon at leisure. Perhaps visit the marina, have a walk on the beach or enjoy the dining independently in one of French restaurants or cafés.

Overnight: Grand Hotel de Courtoisville (or similar), Saint-Malo

Meals: Breakfast included.

Today, we’ll travel along the coast of Normandy to the Mont-Saint-Michel. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is truly unique. Secluded on a rocky isle, this medieval Gothic monastery founded in 966 AD has been a destination for pilgrimages for centuries. Having free time on the isle, perhaps visit the Logis Tiphaine Museum, explore the Abbey and admire views over lunch in one of village’s eateries. Returning to Saint-Malo, enjoy your evening at leisure.

Overnight: Grand Hotel de Courtoisville (or similar), Saint-Malo

Meals: Breakfast included.

We’ll start the day from exploring the medieval walls and ramparts of Dinan. Wandering the port town’s cobbled streets, enjoy time at leisure perhaps visiting waterside arts & crafts shops or stepping into some of the half-timbered cafés, before moving to Fougères. After a stop for an independent lunch in this small commune, we’ll visit Château de Fougères. This fortified castle dating back to 11th century has 13 towers and is surrounded by a moat. Later, we’ll travel to our hotel in historic Laval. With the castle overlooking the town and the river Mayenne, enjoy the rest of your day as you please. In the evening, meet your fellow travellers for our final dinner together.

Overnight: Hotel Perier du Bignon (or similar), Laval

Meals: Breakfast and dinner included.

The first stop of our final day is the Chartres Cathedral. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to 12th century is a beautifully preserved example of Gothic and Romanesque architecture combination. With many detailed ornaments and sculptures, gorgeous stained-glass windows and impressive altar, the cathedral is truly glorious. After our visit, we’ll head to Paris, where our tour ends.

Meals: Breakfast included.