Day 1
Accommodation
Luxury Westminster Hotel - London, Greater London
Room Type: Double/Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.
Daily Itinerary
Cultural London
The Royals, Buckingham Palace, the River Thames, the Tower of London, and the Crown Jewels… London is one of the world’s great cities. Founded 2,000 years ago, its cultural diversity, combined with its history, makes it a dream to visit. Tonight, we’ll get together for a delicious meal, and welcome our fellow travelers. The adventure begins here! Dinner is included.
London Trivia:
Q. How big is London?
A. London covers an area of 607 square miles and it has a population that’s over 8.5 million!
Arrive at
Arrive at London Heathrow Airport, Greater London
Arrive at London Heathrow Airport.
Overnight Location
London, Greater London
On The Map: London is in Southeastern England, next to the River Thames and 50 miles from its estuary on the North Sea. Its main highway, the M25, surrounds the city at a radius of 20 miles from London’s center. Kent, Surrey, and Berkshire are south of the River Thames, while Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and Essex are north. Greater London is 607 square miles with a population of 8,200,000. The city is 211 miles south of York and 77 miles from Dover.
The capital of the United Kingdom, London is one of the world’s great cities. It is almost 2,000 years old and its cultural diversity, combined with its history, makes it a dream to visit. London grew from a walled settlement founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC. Across the bridge, on the south bank, Southwark became known for its monasteries, hospitals, fairs, inns, and the theaters of Elizabethan London, including Shakespeare’s Globe Theater. Westminster, on the south bend of the Thames, grew around an abbey followed by a palace, government buildings, parks, and fashionable neighborhoods.
Day 2
Accommodation
Gracious Elizabethan Hotel - Dorset , Southwest Region
Room Type: Double/Twin Room
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00 am.
Daily Itinerary
Cultural London - Cathedral Winchester - Jurassic Dorset
After breakfast in London, we’ll travel to the cathedral city of Winchester. We’ll take plenty of time to tour the magnificent medieval cathedral before exploring the atmospheric city center. On our way to our lodgings for the evening, we’ll visit the majestic ruins of Corfe Castle, over 1,000 years old. We’ll savor a delicious dinner at our hotel in Dorset. Breakfast and Dinner are included.
Dorset Trivia:
Q. What is unique about Dorset?
A. Dorset has a history of human settlement and deep culture that stretches back thousands of years. The county has more than 1,500 registered ancient monuments, including the Iron Age hillfort, Maiden Castle, and more than 12,000 listed buildings. Thomas Hardy was born here, as well as other well-known authors. It is also part of the 96-mile Jurassic Coastline.
Overnight Location
Dorset , Southwest Region
On the Map: Dorset is a county in southwest England on the English Channel Coast. Covering an area of 1,025 sq mi, it is bordered by the English Channel to the south, the county of Devon to the west, Hampshire to the east, and Somerset to the north. Dorset is 123 miles SW of London, 409 Miles NW of Paris, and 90 miles north of Guernsey. More than half the county is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and three-quarters of its coastline is part of the Jurassic Coast Natural World Heritage Site due to its paleontological and geological significance.
Dorset has a history of human habitation that stretches back to the Neolithic era, although the first human visitors to Dorset were Mesolithic hunters, around 8000 BC. From 2800 BC onwards, Bronze Age farmers cleared forested areas for farming. People from the Iron Age flourished there. The Romans conquered Dorset’s indigenous Celtic tribe, and during the Early Middle Ages, the Saxons tramped in, making Dorset a shire. And the Vikings first raid on the British Isles happened in Dorset. What a history!
Day 3
Accommodation
Elegant Seaside Inn - Guernsey, Isles
Room Type: Double/Twin Room
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00 am.
Daily Itinerary
Jurassic Dorset - Beachside Guernsey (Channel Islands)
After breakfast, we board the ferry for our travel to Guernsey. Depending upon the time we arrive in St. Peter Port, we may seize the opportunity for an engaging tour of the grand Sausmarez Manor and its charming gardens. We will make time to stroll through the cobblestone lanes, beachside cafes, colorful marina, and lovely shops. Use this night to take a pleasant walk to one of the nearby fine restaurants or pubs, or simply relax at the hotel and enjoy the sea air. Breakfast is included.
Channel Islands Trivia:
Q. Do people in the Channel Islands speak English?
A. The official languages are French and English, but English is gradually taking over. In the county districts of Jersey and Guernsey, and throughout Sark, a Norman-French dialect is also spoken.
Overnight Location
Guernsey, Isles
On the Map: Guernsey is an island in the English Channel, off the coast of Normandy, that is part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, a British Crown Dependency. It is 30 miles west of Normandy, 179 miles SW of London, and 226 miles from Paris. The second largest of the Channel Islands, the island group is north of Saint-Malo and west of the Cotentin Peninsula.
Around 6000 BC, rising seas created the English Channel and separated from the Norman promontories. This separation created the bailiwicks of Guernsey and Jersey from Continental Europe. After the separation, Neolithic farmers settled on its coast and built dolmens and menhirs, still found on the islands today. This is evidence that humans began living here around 5000 BC. There are also Roman settlements on the island, as well as proof that there was an intricate trading network between the islands and Europe.
Day 4
Accommodation
Elegant Seaside Inn - Guernsey, Isles
Room Type: Double/Twin Room
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00 am.
Daily Itinerary
Beachside Guernsey - Captivating Sark - Beachside Guernsey
Sark is known as “The Dark Sky Island.” The name is not due to anything ominous—it’s simply that there are no street lights on Sark and no cars with jarring headlights. Use this day to thoroughly relax and step back in time. Decide to take a horse and carriage ride. Enjoy a pleasant walk around the island, including the lighthouse and Pilcher Monument. The dazzling walk along La Coupée to Little Sark is also an option. Sark was a gift from William I, the Conqueror, to the Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey in 1040. It truly is a gem. After returning to Guernsey on the ferry, we’ll have dinner together. Breakfast and Dinner are included.
Sark Trivia:
Q. Are people allowed on the island of Sark?
A. Yes! But, it is one of the few places in the world where cars are absolutely banned from the roads. Only tractors, bicycles, and horse drawn carriages are allowed. Sark was designated as a Dark Sky Community in 2011, and is the first Dark Sky Island in the world. Pure relaxation.
Overnight Location
Guernsey, Isles
On the Map: Guernsey is an island in the English Channel, off the coast of Normandy, that is part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, a British Crown Dependency. It is 30 miles west of Normandy, 179 miles SW of London, and 226 miles from Paris. The second largest of the Channel Islands, the island group is north of Saint-Malo and west of the Cotentin Peninsula.
Around 6000 BC, rising seas created the English Channel and separated from the Norman promontories. This separation created the bailiwicks of Guernsey and Jersey from Continental Europe. After the separation, Neolithic farmers settled on its coast and built dolmens and menhirs, still found on the islands today. This is evidence that humans began living here around 5000 BC. There are also Roman settlements on the island, as well as proof that there was an intricate trading network between the islands and Europe.
Day 5
Accommodation
Elegant Seaside Inn - Guernsey, Isles
Room Type: Double/Twin Room
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00 am.
Daily Itinerary
Beachside Guernsey
After breakfast, we’ll head to The Little Chapel. This must be seen to be believed. Brother Déodat wanted to create a miniature of the basilica at Lourdes. It took three times, but then he got it just the way he wanted. The entire edifice is a mosaic of seashells and broken china. Afterward we visit the German Occupation Museum, filled with memorabilia and rare artifacts. We’ll return to our hotel in the *afternoon. (*Please note: for tours departing on 4 June, 18 June, 3 September, and 10 September we will take the ferry across to Jersey that afternoon, where we will spend the night. On Day 6 we will enjoy a full day in Jersey.) Breakfast is included.
Guernsey Trivia:
Q. What is one of the things that Guernsey is known for?
A. Guernsey has a world-renowned dairy herd. The Guernsey cow produces some of the richest dairy products in the world because of the high butterfat and protein levels in the milk. The cows’ colors range from yellow to reddish-brown with white patches. They have a perfectly even temperament.
Overnight Location
Guernsey, Isles
On the Map: Guernsey is an island in the English Channel, off the coast of Normandy, that is part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, a British Crown Dependency. It is 30 miles west of Normandy, 179 miles SW of London, and 226 miles from Paris. The second largest of the Channel Islands, the island group is north of Saint-Malo and west of the Cotentin Peninsula.
Around 6000 BC, rising seas created the English Channel and separated from the Norman promontories. This separation created the bailiwicks of Guernsey and Jersey from Continental Europe. After the separation, Neolithic farmers settled on its coast and built dolmens and menhirs, still found on the islands today. This is evidence that humans began living here around 5000 BC. There are also Roman settlements on the island, as well as proof that there was an intricate trading network between the islands and Europe.
Day 6
Accommodation
Spacious Oceanside Hotel - Jersey, Isles
Room Type: Double/Twin Room
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00 am.
Daily Itinerary
Beachside Guernsey
This morning we’ll relax and prepare to hop to our next island. The largest of the Channel Islands, our destination is Jersey. Upon our arrival, we’ll get to know Jersey, including the lovely harbor village at St. Aubin. We’ll explore Bulwarks, quaint avenues, shops, lanes, and pubs at our leisure. Tonight, we will meet at the hotel, filled with stories of adventuring through Jersey. Breakfast and Dinner are included.
Guernsey Trivia:
Q. Is Guernsey part of Great Britain?
A. Guernsey and Jersey are separate crown dependencies. Each island has their own laws and customs that were first based on Norman practice. Guernsey is part of the British Isles but not part of the United Kingdom. The waters are clear and turquoise, and there are beaches perfect for picnicking, plus pretty sheltered bays, and waters ideal for swimming and kayaking.
Overnight Location
Jersey, Isles
On the Map: Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands, situated between England and France. It has a mix of British and French cultures, and is known for its fine beaches, coastal walking trails, lush valleys, and historic castles. The Germans occupied Jersey for five years during World War II, as seen in the Jersey War Tunnels. It is 233 miles south of London, 300 miles west of Paris, and 43 miles north of Saint-Malo.
There are prehistoric remains of Paleolithic people living here during the Old Stone Age. During the New Stone Age, or Neolithic Period, and the Bronze Age, there is even more evidence of people flourishing here. The Romans called the island Caesarea, and the documents we have from the 11th and 12th century show there were twelve parishes in Jersey. By the 12th century, Norman landowners dominated the island. For eons, people have enjoyed the fertile valleys and brilliant coastline.
Day 7
Accommodation
Spacious Oceanside Hotel - Jersey, Isles
Room Type: Double/Twin Room
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00 am.
Daily Itinerary
Grand Jersey
This day will be absolutely memorable. We will visit one of Western Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic (New Stone Age) sites—La Hougue Bie. This site, from around 6000 BC, is indescribable. The passage grave was used as a tomb and as a ceremonial place. The interior is aligned so it is lit by the sun on the autumnal and vernal equinox. Our next stop is Mont Orgueil Castle. One of the finest examples of a medieval fortress in existence, it has stood watch over the fishing port of Gorey for more than 800 years. Breakfast is included.
Jersey Trivia:
Q. What is there to see in Jersey?
A. Beside gorgeous beaches and rugged cliffs, Jersey has an intriguing military past. During the Napoleonic Wars and World War II, Jersey was the post for attacks on the British Isles. You can see artifacts and remnants of this fascinating history throughout Jersey.
Overnight Location
Jersey, Isles
On the Map: Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands, situated between England and France. It has a mix of British and French cultures, and is known for its fine beaches, coastal walking trails, lush valleys, and historic castles. The Germans occupied Jersey for five years during World War II, as seen in the Jersey War Tunnels. It is 233 miles south of London, 300 miles west of Paris, and 43 miles north of Saint-Malo.
There are prehistoric remains of Paleolithic people living here during the Old Stone Age. During the New Stone Age, or Neolithic Period, and the Bronze Age, there is even more evidence of people flourishing here. The Romans called the island Caesarea, and the documents we have from the 11th and 12th century show there were twelve parishes in Jersey. By the 12th century, Norman landowners dominated the island. For eons, people have enjoyed the fertile valleys and brilliant coastline.
Day 8
Accommodation
4-Star French Charm - Saint-Malo, France
Room Type: Double/Twin Room
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:30 am.
Daily Itinerary
Grand Jersey - Lovely Saint-Malo (France)
Sir Walter Raleigh, the Governor of Jersey between 1600 and 1603, named the new castle “Elizabeth Castle”, after Elizabeth I of England. You can visit the castle by walking along the causeway at low tide or taking the Castle Ferry. You’ll have free time to explore the enchanting grounds at your own pace. Discover wartime bunkers, wonder at the place where Saint Helier is believed to live, and participate in living history demonstrations. Later in the afternoon, we’ll bid farewell to Britain as we sail into the lovely port town of Saint-Malo, France. This town pulls at your senses… lovely cafes, specialty shops, the colors and scents of the sea and the sky; all feel like small miracles. Breakfast is included.
Saint-Malo Trivia:
Q. Why are people in love with Saint-Malo?
A. Saint-Malo has one of the most stunning settings in Brittany. Narrow cobblestone streets wind through the town and out to the sea. Historic and huge defensive walls reach to the ocean, and the sandy beaches are heavenly. Intriguing shops and cafes abound.
Overnight Location
Saint-Malo, France
On the Map: This is a Brittany region in northwestern France, situated on the English Channel, and on the right bank of an estuary of the Rance River. The ancient walled city is joined to the mainland by a causeway and an avenue that bridges the harbor. The walled city had a colorful, and long, history of piracy, amassing wealth from local bribery and overseas privateering. It is 259 miles from Paris. The people who live in Saint-Malo are called Malouins.
The Port of Saint-Malo was heavily used during the 17th and 18th centuries, with over 3,000 arrivals and departures of trade each year, containing 100,000 tons of goods. The harbor, though, has strong currents and is quite rocky. Because of this, Saint-Malo is one of the world’s largest underwater graveyards. From the ships and cargo lost here, we have gained insight into European shipping trade, and what items were considered most precious, during this timeframe.
Day 9
Accommodation
4-Star French Charm - Saint-Malo, France
Room Type: Double/Twin Room
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:30 am.
Daily Itinerary
Lovely Saint-Malo
Founded in the 1st century BC, a short distance from its current location, Saint-Malo’s streets are a maze that are best explored on foot. After breakfast, we’ll have an orientation tour with our local expert to get our bearings. Then the rest of the afternoon is yours to explore this beloved town. The medieval ramparts surrounding the town, the graceful cathedral, and Bon-Secours Beach all wait to be discovered. Use this evening to indulge in some of the finest classic French cuisine and wine imaginable. Breakfast is included.
Saint-Malo Trivia:
Q. Were there really pirates in Saint-Malo?
A. In beautiful Saint-Malo, myth is sometimes difficult to separate from fact. Located off the edge of France, and looking straight out of a novel, Saint-Malo is famous as the base for many privateers during the Middle Ages. Privateers were state-sponsored pirates, but there were plenty of pirates who worked on their own. These pirates took their booty to Saint-Malo where trade was good and also to hide out in coves.
Overnight Location
Saint-Malo, France
On the Map: This is a Brittany region in northwestern France, situated on the English Channel, and on the right bank of an estuary of the Rance River. The ancient walled city is joined to the mainland by a causeway and an avenue that bridges the harbor. The walled city had a colorful, and long, history of piracy, amassing wealth from local bribery and overseas privateering. It is 259 miles from Paris. The people who live in Saint-Malo are called Malouins.
The Port of Saint-Malo was heavily used during the 17th and 18th centuries, with over 3,000 arrivals and departures of trade each year, containing 100,000 tons of goods. The harbor, though, has strong currents and is quite rocky. Because of this, Saint-Malo is one of the world’s largest underwater graveyards. From the ships and cargo lost here, we have gained insight into European shipping trade, and what items were considered most precious, during this timeframe.
Day 10
Accommodation
4-Star French Charm - Saint-Malo, France
Room Type: Double/Twin Room
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:30 am.
Daily Itinerary
Lovely Saint-Malo - Medieval Dinan - Magical Saint-Michel - Lovely Saint-Malo
After breakfast, we journey to the Brittany town of Dinan. Known for its medieval ramparts and half-timbered homes, the town is nestled on a hilltop with views of the Rance Valley. Dinan Castle has a 14th century keep. We’ll then wind our way along Normandy’s coast to magical Mont Saint-Michel, a rocky islet with a medieval monastery perched on top. We’ll have free time to explore the abbey and visit Logis Tiphaine Museum, the historic house of Knight Bertrand du Guesclin, constable of the armies of the 14th century King of France. We’ll have lunch in the village before returning to Saint-Malo for an evening of leisure. Breakfast is included.
Dinan Trivia:
Q. Is Dinan really exceptional?
A. Known for its historic architecture and timber-framed homes, some of the buildings in this ancient walled town were built in the 13th century. It feels as if you are walking through an unbelievable postcard. Interestingly, the word, “Dinan” is an Anglicized form of an Irish Gaelic word meaning “good.”
Overnight Location
Saint-Malo, France
On the Map: This is a Brittany region in northwestern France, situated on the English Channel, and on the right bank of an estuary of the Rance River. The ancient walled city is joined to the mainland by a causeway and an avenue that bridges the harbor. The walled city had a colorful, and long, history of piracy, amassing wealth from local bribery and overseas privateering. It is 259 miles from Paris. The people who live in Saint-Malo are called Malouins.
The Port of Saint-Malo was heavily used during the 17th and 18th centuries, with over 3,000 arrivals and departures of trade each year, containing 100,000 tons of goods. The harbor, though, has strong currents and is quite rocky. Because of this, Saint-Malo is one of the world’s largest underwater graveyards. From the ships and cargo lost here, we have gained insight into European shipping trade, and what items were considered most precious, during this timeframe.
Day 11
Accommodation
Sumptuous Country Manor - Maintenon, France
Room Type: Double/Twin Room
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 4:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00 am.
Daily Itinerary
Lovely Saint-Malo - Fortress Fougères - Romantic Maintenon
After breakfast, we’ll visit the Château de Fougères, the largest medieval castle in Europe. It features 13 majestic towers, extraordinary gardens, and it is surrounded by the River Nançon. After we stop for lunch in the Old Town, and we travel to Maintenon, home of the French noblewoman who secretly married King Louis XIV. Tonight, we’ll gather at the hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner. It’s time to share stories and memories! Breakfast and Dinner are included.
Maintenon Trivia:
Q. Who was Madame de Maintenon?
A. Madame de Maintenon was a French noblewoman who secretly married King Louis XIV. She was never considered the Queen of France, but she was one of the king’s closest advisors and she was the royal children’s governess. The French Renaissance-style castle probably would have remained unknown if it hadn’t become her home. Francoise d’Aubigne, her birth name, had humble beginnings. After her marriage to the king, she owned the home, and Chateau de Maintenon underwent transformations as she designed it as her own.
Overnight Location
Maintenon, France
On the Map: Maintenon is a town in the metropolitan area of Paris, France. It is 39 miles southwest of Paris’s city center and has a population of 7,000. The town is 218 miles from Saint-Malo, 333 miles east of London, and 12 miles north of Chartres.
Located in the heart of the Eure Valley, in a gorgeous setting, Maintenon Castle is pure enchantment. With its history, romance, and court intrigue, it is a true gem. The French gardens have been reconstructed, just as they were designed in 1676. They were created to reflect the changes of color and mood for each season of the year.
Day 12
Daily Itinerary
Romantic Maintenon - Sacred Chartres - Evocative Paris
Upon leaving Maintenon, we end our tour with the UNESCO HERITAGE SITE, the Cathedral of Chartres. It is the high point of French Gothic art, but it has also stood as a place of pilgrimage since the 13th century. Our final stop will be evocative Paris. Breakfast is included.
Chartres Trivia:
Q. Why do people visit Chartres Cathedral?
A. Visually, the UNESCO site of Chartres is gorgeous. The uniformity of the architecture and decoration is the result of the full-blown Gothic era. The style had a tremendous influence on the Christian art and architecture of the Middle Ages. For the faithful, Chartres is a historic place of pilgrimage. Those who feel the pull of Mary and Christ come to this sacred place to experience their faith on a deep level.
Perhaps you’d like to extend your stay in Paris, or come into London a few days early? Your Authentic Destination Experts are here to make that happen for you.
Depart From
Depart from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, France
Arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport at least 3 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure time to allow ample time to check in for your flight home. After check-in and passenger security, browse the array of shops in the airport. With an extensive range of stores, bars, and cafes, any spare time you have will fly!
