Destination: Channel Islands

Odyssey’s guided tours offer a comprehensive exploration of destinations using a variety of transportation modes, from coaches to local trains and ferries, as detailed in the tour itinerary. The Channel Islands boast a well-established bus service that conveniently accesses key attractions. Additionally, cycling is a popular and secure means of getting around the islands, where cars have a restricted speed limit of 35 miles per hour. For seamless island-hopping, a ferry remains the optimal choice, ensuring a scenic and enjoyable journey between these picturesque locations.

During our guided tours of Channel Islands, Odyssey ensures a comfortable stay by selecting centrally located 3-4 star hotels that offer convenient access to public transport. Alternatively, guests have the option to explore on foot. In quaint villages or rural settings, our accommodations typically include cozy family-run hotels or guesthouses, especially during our guided walking tours.

Odyssey prioritizes engaging local guides with deep regional knowledge to offer travellers an authentic experience, allowing them to immerse themselves fully in the rich history and culture of each destination. Whether exploring the Jersey war tunnels, delving into German fortifications, or embarking on a guided tour of Mont Orgueil castle, the emphasis is on venturing off the beaten track to gain profound insights into the locality.

The Channel Islands consist of two ‘Bailiwicks’, Jersey and Guernsey, each functioning as self-governing British Crown dependencies, complete with their own parliament, laws, and government structures.

Found in the English Channel proximate to the French coast, Jersey and Guernsey make up the primary islands, encompassing a substantial 92% of the total landmass. Complementing these main islands are the smaller isles of Alderney, Sark, and little Sark, which collectively account for the rest of the land area. Notably, the region also features various smaller islets, rocks, and reefs interspersed throughout the archipelago.

Benefiting from a temperate maritime climate, the Channel Islands are hospitable to tourists throughout the year. Uncommonly, severe weather phenomena are rare occurrences, providing pleasant summers and cool winters, perfect for leisurely outdoor walks. However, the island weather can be fickle, occasionally exhibiting all four seasons within a single day. Therefore, it is advisable for visitors to carry a waterproof coat to be prepared for any abrupt shifts in the weather.

The Channel Islands may not have UNESCO World Heritage sites, but they offer a wealth of historical and natural attractions. Visitors have the opportunity to discover the majestic Elizabeth Castle from the sixteenth century, the historic Mont Orgueil Castle that traces back 800 years, and explore Neolithic sites on Herm, the smallest island in the group. Moreover, visitors can immerse themselves in the Jersey war tunnels and German fortifications, which are commonly featured on guided tours across the Channel Islands.

Both Jersey the largest island and Guernsey celebrate Tennerfest, a six week long food festival that takes place in autumn. Both also celebrate the Channel Island Heritage Festival, a five week focus on the history of the islands that marks the anniversary the end of the Nazi occupation during World War Two. Be sure not to miss Jersey’s ‘Battle of Flowers’, one of the biggest carnivals in Europe. Not to be outdone, Guernsey has a rival Floral Festival and a Nerine Festival which coincide with the best bloom times on the island.

• The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer
• Island Madness by Tim Binding
• Island Gardens by Jackie Bennett and Richard Hanson
• Jersey: Witches, Ghosts and Traditions by Sonia Hillsdon

The Channel Islands boast a rich culinary heritage with a focus on fresh, locally sourced food. Thanks to their coastal location and abundance of high-quality cattle, residents take pride in their offerings of fresh meat and seafood.

Unlike areas overrun by fast-food chains, the Channel Islands have preserved their traditional way of sourcing food. Both locals and tourists frequent ‘Hedge Veg’ stalls, quaint roadside markets where produce is sold on an honor system.

From cozy pubs to beachside cafes and outdoor dining spots, the islands provide a diverse dining scene catering to various tastes. Visitors can relish in a blend of French delicacies, classic English dishes, and authentic local cuisine, ensuring a gastronomic experience for all.

While the Channel Islands are typically safe for travel, maintaining vigilance for any anomalies is essential. It is advisable to remain attentive and safeguard your possessions diligently throughout your journey.

The Channel Islands operate on Greenwich Mean Time, maintaining a single time zone across the islands, excluding its overseas territories. Daylight saving time is observed from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October in the region.