The Channel Islands is an archipelago of eight islands in the English Channel, the main five of which are Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm. British and French influences converge to give visitors to the islands the best of both worlds: a taste of the continent, but without the stresses of travelling abroad. The currency and language is the same as in the UK and, where there are cars, driving is on the left.

Jersey
The largest Channel Island and an island of contrasts, Jersey offers the visitor everything from bustling city life, to a beautiful coastline and unspoilt beaches. There's the busy capital, St Helier, with its excellent shops and restaurants, varied wildlife and adventure parks and a rich heritage to be discovered in the island's castles, war tunnels and museums. Outdoor activities abound along the diverse coastline; cycling, abseiling, sky diving, water sports, golf and the island's speciality, blokarting, are all hugely popular in the area. Jersey's diary burgeons with events, celebrating everything from walking to winter ales, motoring to music and food to flowers. The northern and eastern beaches have rock pools brimming with marine life, while those in the south and west are of the golden, sandy variety.

Guernsey
Guernsey is geographically closer to France than Britain, but it has retained its loyalty to the British crown since Norman times. Bursting with breath-taking scenery and nature reserves, historic castles and ancient landmarks, dolmens and forts, visitors will love Guernsey's pretty coastline, with its bays and fishing harbours. With 28.5 miles of spectacular cliff paths to explore, keen walkers will be in heaven. The attractive capital, St Peter Port, has cobbled streets, a seafront marina and a plethora of independent shops and restaurants. Visit Guernsey with the Co-op this summer and you'll be spoilt for choice with shows, festivals and carnivals.

Alderney
Three miles long and one-and-a-half miles wide, the peaceful oasis of Alderney is the third largest Channel Island and only eight miles from France. It is steeped in history and boasts idyllic landscapes and a huge range of flora and fauna. Remote, yet well connected with scheduled flights running from the UK, Alderney has cleverly managed to avoid mass tourism. The town of St Anne, with its cobbled streets and small boutiques, has numerous places in which to eat and drink and the island is renowned for its seafood, holding a festival every May. Highlights include exploring the nature reserves, museums and Roman forts and riding on the Channel Islands' only train.

Sark
The tranquil island of Sark is reached by boat and the absence of cars makes it a wonderfully calm place to visit. Transport is by tractor, bicycle or horse and carriage, but the best way of discovering the stunning coastline, beaches and wildlife is on foot with a picnic in hand.

Herm
Also blissfully free of traffic, Herm is a truly relaxing holiday destination. Those keen to get off the beaten track, will delight in the untouched white beaches and varied coastlines, where they can enjoy a spot of therapeutic crabbing, rock pooling and snorkelling to while away the time.  For a welcome break from the daily grind, consider a trip to the magical Channel Islands.