‍The transfers between home and Dover and back to Calais were much as usual with Leger. Departures for the ports at stupid o’clock then waiting around for coaches or ferries. Apart from a minibus as far as Bristol, on the outward journey, all our “feeder”coaches were Luxuria - so much more comfortable. And, on the outward journey, we made it onto an earlier ferry with just minutes to spare - we drove straight on. Good result. We arrived at our overnight hotel 3 hours earlier than planned at 18:30.

‍It’s the first time we’ve travelled on Irish Ferries and (to our surprise) they’re almost as good as P&O. We used both the ferries they use on the route  - one out, one back. The Club Lounges are comfortable and clean with some very tasty food and drinks on offer. We wouldn’t hesitate to use them again.

‍The real treat on both journeys, however, was the Simplon Pass. Our crew (Paul & Lisa) are always keen to up the experience and decided that this route was a bit shorter and more scenic than the more usual Gottard Tunnel, all motorway journey.

‍We climbed above the snow-line to 6600 foot for some of the most breathtaking views imaginable. They found places to stop and take in the scenery. What could have been two days of boring French countryside and industrialised Switzerland turned into an excursion worth paying for.