Sark
Sue Papworth, director, Premier Holidays sums up her impressions of Sark.
“Sark’s beautiful scenery and exhilarating cliff walks attract people who want to get back to nature. The island is just 40mins by boat from Guernsey and is our third biggest seller after Jersey and Guernsey.
“People like the fact that there are no cars. You can really get away from it all and just enjoy the cliff walks and scenery. Cycling is also a popular way to get around.
“Sark appeals to professional people and we get a lot who go for a week or 14 nights, rather than short breaks. It’s also good for children aged three-10-years-old as it is so safe, but any older and they would be bored as there is no entertainment. Some hotels are quite expensive, but as Sark is so popular, you do need to book early in peak season.
“Our top seller is Aval Du Creux, which we introduced last year and which has capacity for 40 guests. It is cheaper than the other properties at £30-£35 a night, against £50-£60 in other places. It offers free child places and the quality is still very good.”
Alderney
Victoria Clarke, Channel Islands product manager, Thomas Cook Holidays, gives her views on Alderney.
“Alderney is a perfect destination for a short break, particularly if your want to get away from it all, as the island does offer clients peace and quiet.
“It has the benefit of a direct flight from Southampton, so you don’t have to go through Guernsey. The destination is ideal for clients who like the outdoors, particularly walking, birdwatching and golf.
“History buffs are also well served with World War II fortifications to explore.
“There are a couple of nice beaches that are good for children, but not for a long stay. I also wouldn’t recommend Alderney for young couples. Sark is better for them because it is smaller and more romantic.
“You do need to hire a car to get around Alderney.
“It is more for middle-aged clients, but you must be sure they know what to expect when they are booking, and that they are booking for the right reasons.
“The island has some lovely restaurants and pubs and they get very busy, as there is nothing else to do in the evening.
“We offer one property, the Belle Vue Hotel, which is good value for money. It has smashing rooms and a nice family atmosphere.”
“We are hoping the eclipse in August will help put Alderney on the map. It is a super island, but it does suffer from a lack of identity. People don’t know where it is.”
Herm
John Penson, managing director, Islanders, talks about the quiet charms of Herm
“A visit to Herm is like stepping back in time. It is a magical place. There is only one hotel, The White House, which has views across the sea.
“It has no phones in the rooms and no television, but there are jigsaws and Scrabble in the lounges and you can just walk around and join in a game if you wish.
“When the last ferry goes back to Guernsey, at about 10.30pm, you are completely cut off.
You can walk around the island at certain times of the day and it’s like you have got it all to yourself.
“The hotel and adjoining cottages hold 92 guests and are only open from April to early October, probably due to the weather for the ferry crossing, so it is always full.
“It’s not for people who want a nightlife, but ideal for those who want quiet relaxation.
It is also good for children as there are no cars. The beaches are excellent – it takes a lot to beat Shell Beach.”