Depending on route and traffic the journey to hello velo from landing in France will take around 5-6 hours. French roads are really easy to navigate – just head in the ‘general’ direction of travel- and miss.. Lyon on the way here, Lille on the way back.
Euro Tunnel
By far the quickest way to get over to France, is Eurotunnel
It is soooo easy.
- Arrive at the terminal via M25 and M20 straight to check in booths
- Check in at least 30mins and no more than 2 hours before booked departure time.
- You will need credit/debit card used at time of booking and booking ref no. To collect hanger.
- If you have time visit passenger terminal for shopping and eating or
- Drive straight up frontier controls ( passport ready)
- Boarding will star approx 25 mins before crossing. Follow green arrows
- DRIVE ON. RELAX. STRETCH YOUR LEGS HAVE A WEE AND 35 MINS LATER…..
- Drive off and straight onto the French motorways!
Eurotunnel is between £150 -£170, ( long stay saver) for a crossing in August at the moment. This is per car and upto 9 passengers. More flexible tickets will cost more. But the beauty of the tunnel is that although you chose an exact crossing you are fine for any crossing in that hour slot (upto 4 crossing per hour) and they will always get you across as quickly as possible if you miss your slot. Many tickets are exchangeable on or AFTER the day of travel ( check ticket type) Please remember to tell them if you are bringing bikes – it may affect which train you take. Book as early as possible for the best fares. Sales open 9/10 months in advance. I have had good results with them asking questions on Twitter.
Pros / cons of tunnel
Pros
-
really quick
Not dependant on weather
Very frequent crossings
Few delays
Less waiting
Internet connectivity the whole journey under the sea!
Cons
Lack of facilities during journey
No view to speak of
Nowhere to relax out of car
Can feel a bit claustrophobic
Less waiting
Internet connectivity the whole journey under the sea!
Ferry
A ferry crossing, though slower, can be more relaxing. It gives you time to have a meal and stretch your legs properly, let the kids play in a soft pay area and shop. ( although you are coming to the land of wine so…) Dover to Calais at the moment is about £138 return DFDS and £154 P&O for a car of up to 9 people travelling in August. Crossing times are about 90 mins but there can be delays in getting on & off the ferry.
If you are taking the ferry you need to arrive at least 45 minutes in advance of the crossing, otherwise you will have to wait for the next available crossing, which at high season could take a while. Both companies have about 23 sailings a day. It takes longer all in all but can be cheaper and can be enjoyed as part of the holiday. Great if you like boats and are scared of tunnels. Again the best fares are to be found by booking in advance.
Pros / cons of ferry
Pros
-
adds a bit of excitement to a journey for kids
Room to stretch your legs
Good facilities (shops restaurants etc)
A rest for the driver
Can be cheaper
Cons
Delays in loading unloading
Can be crowded
Bad weather
Takes longer
Can be cheaper
Direct Ferries or A Ferry have good ferry information but always check that the prices aren’t cheaper by going directly to the ferry company’s own website.
