Alderney In Style - Wildlife and History with Naturetrek

Alderney is the most northerly of the Channel Islands and, despite lying just 8 miles off Normandy’s Cotentin Peninsula its relative inaccessibility ensures that it is a peaceful backwater where the pace of life is slow, visitors are sparse and the locals most welcoming! Despite its small size - approximately 3.5 miles long and 1.5 miles wide - the island’s rich tapestry of habitats merits close attention from the keen naturalist. In spring northbound bird migration will be in full swing and the island will be adorned with colourful flowers. As spring progresses to summer the seabirds will be back in their nesting colonies offshore and butterflies, moths and dragonflies will be on the wing to enrich the island’s natural history. After a scenic flight from Southampton we’ll be based for four nights at the splendid and well-appointed Braye Beach Hotel. We will explore the island’s diverse patchwork of habitats on foot and by minibus, in search of such birds as Peregrine and Dartford Warbler, as well as visit Gannet colonies and enjoy the island's other seabirds. We will also have a chance to enjoy some bird-ringing at the newly-established Observatory and moth-trapping, as well as to look for some of Alderney's thriving population of Hedgehogs, many of which are leucistic (or 'Blonde').

Highlights

• Stay at the delightful 4-star Braye Beach Hotel, which has fabulous views
• Explore the island, mainly on foot, covering a leisurely 2 to 3 miles each day
• Peregrine, Buzzard, Raven & Dartford Warbler among the island’s special birdlife
• Visit Gannet colonies (holding some 2% of the world population) on Les Etacs & Ortac
• Boat excursion if weather permits to view Gannet colonies, other seabirds & marine-life
• Enjoy bird-ringing and moth-trapping!
• Flights to & from the mainland included in the cost of this holiday
• Learn about Alderney’s remarkable history
• Led by expert resident naturalist guides

What's included?

• Flights
• Accommodation: Sparkling 4-star hotel commanding fabulous views over the bay. All rooms en-suite.
• Food: Bed and breakfast only is included in the cost of this holiday. The cost of lunches and dinners is not included since each day's itinerary is planned to enable group members to take a break either at the Braye Beach Hotel, or at one of Alderney's many pubs or restaurants where a choice of lunch, snacks and drinks will be available to suit individual preferences.

Prices from £1,195

Visit website for full itinerary and to book.