We have driven via the tunnel and down through France, only done it the once and probably won't ever repeat the experience!

Taking into account the petrol and toll payments along with the trip through the tunnel and an overnight stop in cheap hotel, we have found its not much more expensive to use the ferry to Santander or Bilbao from Portsmouth.

The time taken is almost the same with a refreshing sleep on the boat and a steady drive down from Santander. This way is so good for us that we have already booked the ferry for next May. This has cost us £648 return for a two berth cabin and obviously one car and two passengers. This year it was £720 but we did travel out at the beginning of July and returned at the beginning of August.

Beware when buying a non-French breathalyzer from Amazon as the limits are different so a Pass/Fail one will give you a false reading.

Just to say thanks to all of the contributors. ( a lot of useful info).

After I complete my return trip will 'issue' report...

Have past experience of travelling from Calais via Paris towards Limoges so will probably follow that route although I have yet to compare costings of the 'Santander approach'.

The rest ? well that (I hope ) will be an enjoyable experience