Whether for a day or over several days, British charm is within reach. The 5 Channel Islands (Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm) will allow you to enjoy everything that makes English culture so charming: tea time, pubs, local gastronomy...
Switch to English time with family or friends just one hour from Normandy
Located at only a few kilometers from the Normandy coast, the Channel Islands are all different with traditions that combine British and French cultures in a magnificent setting between white sand beaches and rocky coasts. Depart from Carteret, Granville or Diélette and after a quick crossing, share an unforgettable experience with family or friends in the Channel Islands.
Jersey
Jersey is the largest island. There are varied landscapes that will delight hiking enthusiasts. For city dwellers, the capital Saint-Helier is a must, both for shopping and for the Victorian atmosphere and its very particular architecture. For heritage lovers, the island offers discoveries of maritime heritage, castles (Mont Orgueil, Elizabeth, etc.) and several museums. The youngest will be seduced by the zoo and the seaside activities.
Guernsey
Guernsey was made famous in the 19th century for having been the place ofexile of Victor Hugo. His home, Hauteville House, is a French national museum. The island is also rich in nature reserves, private gardens, beaches and other magnificent landscapes to discover on foot or by bike.
Alderney
If you are tempted by Alderney, the unmissable is, without hesitation, the only railway in the Channel Islands whose carriages are former London Underground trains. This curiosity offers an incomparable travel experience, combining the picturesque charm of the island with London's iconic railway history. Climb aboard these vehicles steeped in history and travel through the magnificent landscapes of Alderney with a touch of originality. Whether you are passionate about trains or simply curious, this excursion promises you an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Channel Islands.
Sark
Sark is an island where time seems to have stood still. You won't find trucks or cars, only horse-drawn carriages and bicycles to explore this island of many natural riches. It's the perfect place for a peaceful getaway. This small island, with its 10,5 km² surface area, offers a quiet refuge far from the urban hustle and bustle. Nestled in the blue waters of the English Channel, Sark seduces with its picturesque and preserved charm. Its varied landscapes, between steep cliffs, golden sandy beaches and gentle green hills, invite relaxation and wonder. Whether for a contemplative stroll along the coastal paths or simply to recharge your batteries to the soothing sound of the waves, Sark promises a stay marked by calm and serenity.
Herm
Just 20 minutes by boat from Guernsey, the island of Herm offers a preserved natural landscape where escape is guaranteed between dunes, beaches, coves and cliffs. Little frequented and devoid of cars, it seems frozen in time. This island, the smallest of the Channel Islands open to visitors, with an area of 2,5 km² and a resident population of around 60 inhabitants, is a haven of peace for a relaxing holiday, ideal for families and enthusiasts of tranquility. Once on this paradise island, you will be able to enjoy its magnificent beaches without cars, without crowds and certainly without stress.
Pratical information
How to get to the Channel Islands?
The five Channel Islands (Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm) are accessible from Barneville – Carteret, Dielette, Granville or Saint-Malo.
Jersey > ports of departure: Granville and Carteret
Guernsey > ports of departure: Dielette, Granville and Carteret
Alderney > port of departure: Dielette
Sark > ports of departure: Granville and Carteret
Herm > port of departure: Guernsey
Where to book my ticket?
The tourist information offices of Côte Ouest Center Manche welcome you to reserve your tickets via Channel Island Express.
Documents to have in order to make the crossing:
- ID card (direct and non-stop journey for the day to Jersey, Guernsey and Alderney from April to September), or Valid passport required for all passengers, including babies (except minors as part of a school group outing)
- Authorization to leave the territory for any minor child not accompanied by a holder of parental authority (+ photocopy of the identity document of the legal representative signing the authorization to leave the territory)
- Some EU and non-EU nationals may need a visa – Medical certificate required for pregnant women. They cannot embark beyond 7 months of pregnancy.
- A family book can be requested from the parental authority who accompanies their child alone if they do not have the same last name as the child.
Find timetables and prices of crossings on the Manche-Iles Express website or on the condorferries website for departures from Saint-Malo. Schedules are based on the tides. It takes a maximum of 1h30 to cross depending on the island chosen.
