The gorgeous islands compared to the Bahamas that Brits can reach without flying

A group of islands that can be reached from the UK without a flight has been compared to the Bahamas for its stunning scenery.

The archipelago of Les Iles Chausey – located ten miles off the north-west coast of France and to the south of Jersey – is made up of 52 islands. 

That number increases to as many as 365 islands when the tide goes out, twice each day.

The islands, which have been described as ‘a little paradise’, have drawn comparisons with exotic overseas locations thanks to their crystal clear waters.

Although Les Iles Chausey is the largest archipelago in Europe, there are no cars to be found on the collection of islands.

The islands, which have been described as ‘a little paradise’, have drawn comparisons with exotic overseas locations thanks to their crystal clear waters

Instead, the various different cottages on the islands are connected to one another by a combination of rocky paths.

Manche Tourism claims that Chausey ‘welcomes visitors from the mainland and offers them an escape from their everyday lives’.

In addition to the blissful stretches of water, the beaches have been described as ‘perfect’ for bathing.

Manche Tourism also say that some spots in the south of the archipelago ‘look like the Caribbean’.

The islands may also interest anyone who enjoys a history-related holiday, as they are home to a number of different historic relics. 

The dwelling was known to be popular with key figures in French history, such Napoleon III, industrialist Louis Renault – founder of the eponymous car company – and Louis XIV.

Les Iles Chausey are said to be an ‘unspoiled paradise’ with a thriving fishing community.

It is also home to various different types of exotic wildlife, with dolphins known to swim close to shore.

Away from the waters, there are plenty of hiking and cycling routes for tourists to enjoy, with kayaking and windsurfing also available to enjoy.

Indeed, one of Chausey’s main attractions is that it can be reached from the UK without having to board a plane. 

Les Iles Chausey are said to be an ‘unspoiled paradise’ with a thriving fishing community

One of Chausey’s main attractions is that it can be reached from the UK without having to board a plane

This can be done by catching a ferry from Poole in Dorset to the northern French port city of Saint Malo in France.

From Saint Malo, another short one-hour ferry journey is required to reach the islands.

There is a solitary hotel on the island, the Hotel du Fort et des Iles, where rooms are available from €79 (£68) per night.

Cottage stays, rentals and campsites can also be booked for anyone wishing to visit Les Iles Chausey.