The Channel Islands are located in the English Channel in the Gulf of St. Malo, actually much closer to France than England. They are easily reached in under one hour from mainland Britain by air, or by ferry if you have a little longer. English is spoken everywhere, yet the French influence is unmistakable, especially in the cuisine.

They are made up of the Baliwicks of Jersey and Guernsey. The Baliwick of Guernsey includes the islands of Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, Herm and Jethou. All enjoy a warmer and sunnier climate than mainland Britain and offer plenty of outdoor activities, especially hiking and cycling--there are 28 miles of cliff paths with amazing scenic views on Guernsey, several golf courses and superb water sports that can be enjoyed all year round.

During World War II, the Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles to come under German occupation, and several of the underground hospitals are now museums. There are also plenty of other museums--military and maritime, castles, forts and galleries--each depicting the rich history, culture and traditions of the islands.

Corbiere Lighthouse, Jersey

Jersey is the largest island covering 45 square miles and the most southerly. It is renowned for its mild winters and long hot summer days; its French-influenced cuisine, especially seafood and cream dishes; the Battle of Flowers parade every August; the Jersey Zoo; and its bargain shopping, as the Channel Islands have low rates of duty and no V.A.T. The British television program, Bergerac, is set on the island in and around the capital, St. Helier.

St Peter Port, Guernsey

Guernsey is the second largest island and its capital, St. Peter Port, was truly put on the map in 1855 when Victor Hugo was exiled from France and made his home at Hauteville House where he wrote Les Miserables. Renoir also painted a number of his masterpieces here. Today, Guernsey is a wonderfully cosmopolitan destination particularly loved by beach and watersport enthusiasts.

Alderney is the most northerly and third largest of the islands but is only three and a half miles long and one and a half miles wide--a perfect spot if you want to get away from the usual tourist attractions and have a quiet vacation.

Coastline, Sark

Sark is only nine miles southeast of Guernsey. There is no airport; nor are there any cars. Visitors travel by foot or bicycle. Although only two square miles in area, Sark boasts almost 40 miles of picturesque coastline with many bays and coves, caves and deep crystal pools with deserted beaches.

Herm is just a 20-minute boat ride away from St. Peter Port. With very few rooms for overnight guests, most visitors come for a day trip from Guernsey to spend a quiet, relaxing day at the beach.

Jethou is separated from Herm at high tide by a narrow channel. It is privately owned and not open to the public.