Visiting Alderney

Alderney is the third largest of the Channel Islands. It is an excellent place to unwind and relax and it has been said that visiting Alderney is like stepping back in time 50 years. Although people have jobs and lives to run nobody ever seems to be in a hurry. The island is remote, yet is well connected for the visiting tourist. France is only 8 miles away and as such the island does have a very French flavour. Have a look at Alderney Ferry Times so you can plan a trip to France if you fancy it.

Because of the islands proximity to France there are wildlife that are not present in the UK. The island is home to blonde hedgehogs known as 'alderney spike girls' and black rabbits. The island is a favourite destination for birdwatchers and attracts many species not seen in the UK. Guillimots live on Alderney all year round and even breed there. Puffins and Fulmars are also frequent visitors. There is a bird sanctuary 2 miles off the coast of Alderney known as Burhou Island. It is a small rocky island owned by the USA and has a little wooden shed that provides very rough accommodation. It is possible to rent the island for a small fee, though it is closed between March and July to protect Puffins and Storm Petrels that live there. A boat called 'Voyager' runs boat trips around the island to see the puffins, gannets and seal colony of Alderney as well as many other types of bird and wildlife.

Though Alderney is remote travel to and from the island is not too much of a problem. It is has its own harbour and airport. There are scheduled flights from Southampton, Shoreham, Bournemouth, Jersey and Guernsey and it is possible to reach the island from all major UK airports by traveling to Guernsey or Jersey first. It is also possible to reach Alderney by ferry from either Guernsey or France. If you have not got your own form of transport then you should definitely hire a car. You can do this through dedicated sites such as Car Rentals and explore the island for yourself. There's lots to see so hiring a car can give you the freedom that tours are unable to provide.

Accommodation on Alderney is plentiful and there are many hotels, guest houses and B&B's offering friendly service.