walkJersey2012

New routes & old favourites Guided walking programme 2012

Cliffpaths & Côtils Discover Jersey’s magnetic North coast

parish perambulateUncover Jersey’s parishes

islaNd hoppiNgExplore the Channel Island Way

work up aN appetiteIndulgent food and ale trails

Start off in the right direction A Walker’s GuideThis guide introduces you to the kind of terrain you can expect, its wildlife, the places to visit en route and lots of information to help you on your way.

For such a small Island – only nine miles by five – it packs in an amazing variety of walking opportunities. Everywhere along the coast you’ll find gentle beach walks and spectacular cliff paths that take you to salty fishing harbours. Jersey’s woodland and hidden valleys are timeless and traditional; latticed with lanes and trails that lead to the green heart of the Island. And you can make your walks as long or as short, as comfortable or challenging as you like. There’s everything here from half-hour strolls to long distance around-Island coastal hikes.

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The rich diversity of Jersey’s natural landscape can be attributed to the Island’s geology, size and shape. Five hundred million years ago, the Jersey landscape was buried under a towering mountain range that extended through northwest France.

Shale and volcanic rock, including Jersey’s peculiarly pink granite, account for around 90% of its area. This granite has been used in building many of its farmhouses and public buildings, and forms about a third of the Island.

The present perimeter of the Island only began to take shape about 10,000 years ago, when rising sea levels severed the last vestiges of land connecting southeast Jersey and France.

intertidal ZoneExploring Jersey’s rich and varied coastal environments is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences you can have when you visit. However, it is important that you are aware of Jersey’s tides; their size and strength, times and heights. A strange, complex coastline of low-lying reefs and rocks extends around the south-east coast; a lunar-like seascape that could well be the biggest rock pool in the world. This vast reef system disappears beneath the Atlantic Ocean twice daily as a consequence of Jersey’s massive tides - at 40ft/12m some of the highest in the world. Its importance is reflected in its status as an internationally recognised Ramsar wetland site.

The Island’s Landscape

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North coastThe north coast is the wildest part of Jersey. The steep heather and bracken-clad cliffs have many caves, some accessible only by boat. These same cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop to some of the Island’s most beautiful bays, including Grève de Lecq, Bonne Nuit, Bouley and Rozel.

west coastThe magnificent sandy expanse of St Ouen’s Bay dominates the western coastline. The area known as Les Mielles encompasses the shoreline, and the flat, marshy land behind the dunes provides a number of habitats for plants and animals. So do the rocky outcrops at either end of the bay, where the rock pools and shallows teem with life. The dunes to the south, Les Blanches Banques, are home to a wide variety of flowers and have been designated as a Site of Special Interest. St Ouen’s Pond, surrounded by marshy land and thick reed beds, is Jersey’s largest natural expanse of fresh water.

south coastJersey’s southern coast has four main sub-regions. They are: • St Brelade’s Bay, a beach of golden sand protected from most winds. • The town area of St Helier. • To the west of St Helier, the sweeping expanse of St Aubin’s Bay. • The low-lying farming area surrounding St Clement’s Bay.

east coastThis coastline of rocky inlets and bays faces Normandy and comprises the Royal Bay of Grouville and St Catherine’s Bay. Mont Orgueil Castle dominates the skyline at Gorey, and its strategic position indicates that there were fortifications on this site long before the existing castle was built in 1204.

the interiorThe interior of the Island is a mixture of woodland, intensely-farmed arable land and mineral-rich grazing land. The latter provides the pasture for the herds of Jersey cows, and is also what gives Jersey’s other famous export - the Jersey Royal - its special flavour. Most fields are small and bordered by granite walls or hedgerows. And all over the Island you’ll notice steep, south-facing slopes, or côtils, where early potatoes and other crops are cultivated.

Woodland is mainly located in deep valleys, eroded by fast-flowing streams. In the early morning the blended notes of many songbirds echo through the glades and dells. In the summer, broad canopies of oak, ash, wild cherry and sycamore shelter the thriving population of red squirrels and are home to a rich array of other mammals, birds, flowers and shrubs.

green lanes The calm, walker-friendly, Green Lanes are a famous feature of Jersey. Make tracks on foot or pedal along these tranquil by-ways for some breathtaking discoveries; it is the only way to experience the natural beauty, agricultural diversity, architectural heritage, history and traditions of the Island.

The first mention of ‘Green Lanes’ came about in 1986 as part of Jersey’s Island plan and they were approved by the local government in 1987. The plan referred to the identification of tree lined lanes which were “particularly attractive or of great character and antiquity” and stated that “in co-operation with landowners, parishes and States’ departments, every effort would be made to ensure that their character is maintained”.

To protect these quiet country lanes, and to let users enjoy them in safety, an intricate network of 50 miles was created and designated ‘Green Lanes’. The lanes have a speed limit of 15 mph (24 km/h) with priority given to walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Existing in all but two of Jersey’s twelve parishes (Trinity and St Saviour), the first ‘Green Lanes’ were introduced in the Parish of St Peter in 1994 and can be identified by a distinctive ‘Green Lane’ road sign.

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Self-Guided RoutesWhat’s your walking style? Laid back and relaxed? Enthusiastic and vigorous? Do you like beaches and headlands? Or are you more of a country lover? It might be hard to believe, but Jersey answers all those walking questions. More and more visitors are discovering our coastal paths and Green Lanes in an island blessed with a mild, sunny climate, great natural beauty and bountiful wildlife. So pack your walking boots – and don’t forget the binoculars.

Many of the walking routes, from coastal paths to country lanes, are available to view online at www.jersey.com/walking. In addition, what about a walk for foodies showcasing the local produce of the island? Maybe a paroquial walk discovering unique facets of our 12 small parishes? There are even ‘Ale Trails’ that will guide you through stunning parts of the island to finish at a local inn for well-deserved refreshments! To get you off on the right foot, we’ve included examples of these walks in this brochure… just enough to whet your appetite!

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The Channel Island WayUniting all five Channel Islands as a single, fabulous walking destination, this exciting new walking route brings together all the best coastal walks in Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm in stunning detail.

The guide has been developed by Jersey Tourism and the other Channel Islands in conjunction with Jersey-based Blue Badge Guide Arthur Lamy. The 115-mile route takes walkers around the coastlines of Jersey (48 miles), Guernsey (38 miles), Alderney (13½ miles), Sark (9½ miles) and Herm (6½ miles).

‘Individually the islands are fantastic places for a walking holiday,’ said Katie Blampied of Coast Media, the publishers of the guide, ‘but when you take them all together they provide one of the most beautiful and diverse walking destinations in Europe, if not the world. The beauty of the Channel Island Way lies in its flexibility. Walking enthusiasts who come from outside the islands can do the whole lot in the space of a fortnight or they can keep their guides and come back time and time again to discover a new walk and a new island.’’

Packed with useful information about points of interest and local history, the routes have been divided into sections of two to four miles in length, with a car park, bus stop, toilet and café or pub at each end, so you need be neither a strong walker nor a car driver to be able to enjoy at least some of the CI Way.

The Channel Island Way is on sale now for only £9.95 from Shop Jersey at Jersey Tourism, other retailers across the Channel Islands and via www.amazon.co.uk

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Distance: 9.5 m (15.5 k) full walkDifficulty: Easy/Medium (Hard in places)Start: St Brelade’s Parish Hall Finish: La Pulente Slip

The second largest and arguably the most beautiful of Jersey’s parishes, St Brelade offers a blend of breathtaking scenery with varied urban development. Its treasures include: 17th century merchants’ houses in St Aubin, spectacular vistas at Noirmont and Beauport, Corbière and its lighthouse, the nature reserve of Les Blanches Banques, the unique Fishermen’s Chapel and a beautiful Parish Church.

The full walk starts at the Parish Hall in St Aubin and finishes at La Pulente near the St Brelade Millennium Stone. The route is made up of 6 sections which can be walked independently or tailored to a combination that suits you. There are a number of places for refreshment en route and options to return to St Aubin either by foot

or by bus along the way. The surface is a mixture of metalled road, cliff path, beach and sandy track, which can be wet underfoot, so suitable footwear is recommended.

Produced in association with the Island’s Department of the Environment, this fully-illustrated publication provides detailed information about the various habitats, flora and fauna encountered on the walk. In addition, fascinating facts and figures about the history of the area and places of interest ensure the wonderful sights are brought vividly to life. This is a photographer’s paradise – don’t forget your camera!

The guide is available from Shop Jersey at Jersey Tourism, priced at £2.

South West Coast – Jersey Footpath Guide

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Distance: 16 m (26 k) full walk or 6 short stages of 2-4 m.Difficulty: Medium/Hard

It’s little wonder that you’ll find some of the finest walks in Jersey along the north coast. The scenery is wild, the terrain ruggedly beautiful with steep heather and bracken-clad cliffs that soar high above perfect little bays, tiny sheltered harbours and charming refreshment stops with jaw-dropping vistas.

There’s an away-from-it-all feel to this peaceful stretch of the Island and, best of all for walkers, a coastal path runs continuously between Le Pulec in the north-west and Rozel in the north-east. It’s one of Jersey’s most challenging routes, so you’ll have a real sense of achievement and satisfaction when you’ve taken it all in. The North Coast – Walking Routes guide consists of a detailed, panoramic pull-out map of the entire north coast along with information and photographs.

But you don’t have to go the full distance all at once. The alternative is to chop it up and tackle different sections on different days. The guide recommends 6 stages that link into the public

bus service. Buses depart from St Helier to points on or close to the north coast – so it’s easy to hop off and on, completing shorter sections as you wish. All you need is the North Coast – Walking Routes guide and a bus timetable.

don’t miss:Plémont, the sandiest bay complete with caves and a waterfall; accessible only by steps, the beach is completely submerged at high tide.

The old barracks at Grève de Lecq, carefully transformed by The National Trust for Jersey into holiday accommodation and interpretation centre.

The path that ascends to Sorel Point, the most northerly tip of the island, offering glorious views over the dangerous Paternoster Reef to the Isle of Sark.

Bonne Nuit and Rozel Bays, picture-postcard gems, both with idyllic cafés overlooking quaint fishing harbours.

The guide is available from Shop Jersey at Jersey Tourism, priced at £1.

North Coast – Walking Routes

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Originally set up in 1863, The Jersey New Waterworks Company supplied St Helier from a well in St Lawrence before completing its first reservoir at Millbrook in 1895. Today there are six raw water reservoirs in the island with a total capacity of 2700 million litres, plus another five small reservoirs for treated water.

Water needs to be pumped from reservoir to reservoir because in some cases the catchment areas produce more water than their reservoirs can hold. In addition to the collection of rain, spring and stream water, the Company operates a reverse-osmosis desalination plant, providing additional water in times of low rainfall and high demand.

The following reservoirs are owned by Jersey Water (a name adopted in 2004) and are kept open for the enjoyment of the general public.

To download a map of Queen’s Valley or Val De La Mare with distances and parking information, log onto www.jerseywater.je/leisure

Queen’s valley There are several walking routes around Queen’s Valley Reservoir; the full circuit is 1.9miles (3.1km).

Completed in 1991, this reservoir is the newest and largest in Jersey, holding up to 1,193 megalitres of untreated water - enough to supply Jersey with water for approximately 48 days.

The large tower near the dam wall is where all of the water is collected from. The tower has a series of inlet pipes at varying depths through which water can be collected for transfer to the water treatment works. The tower also acts as the overflow in case the water level rises too high - excess water would enter the tower and run safely down a large pipe into the spillway below the reservoir.

The reservoir has a natural wealth of flora and fauna and is home to many species of birds and wildlife. Owls are also particularly encouraged at the reservoir – see if you can spot their nesting boxes.

Reservoir Walks

val de la mareThere are several walking routes around Val de la Mare Reservoir, the full circuit is 2.8miles (4.5km).

The reservoir was constructed in 1962 and is the second largest in Jersey, holding up to 938.7 megalitres of untreated water. Water feeds into the reservoir from its catchment area of 350 hectares (865 acres) which extends towards St Ouen’s Parish Hall in the North and La Grande Route de St Pierre in the East. When it is in operation, water is also pumped to Val de La Mare from the desalination plant.

Fitted with underwater machinery designed to maintain the quality of the water in the reservoir, air bubbles are released into the water at predetermined intervals which helps to turn over and mix the water. If you see the water in the reservoir bubbling in certain locations this is what is happening.

The reservoir has a natural wealth of flora and fauna and is home to many species of birds. An arboretum has been created at the reservoir which in turn provides a lush and safe environment for wildlife.

la maseline reservoir - st Catherine’s woodsSt Catherine’s Woods is a shady, tranquil spot, ideal for an easy walk and excellent for families with its streams, stepping stones and rope swings. It’s also known as Rozel Woods or the German Reservoir (as the reservoir just beyond the car park was built during the German Occupation of the Island).

The path follows the floor of the valley alongside the stream. This is a stronghold for red squirrels – keep a look out for them in the tree-top canopy. There are also great spotted woodpeckers, short-toed treecreepers, blackcaps, willow warblers and chiff-chaffs. The path here is thought to follow the route of a Perquage - an ancient sanctuary path running from St Martin’s Parish Church to the coast.

In the spring you can see many woodland and meadow flowers including bluebells, wood sorrel, wild daffodils and celandine, and in the summer herb robert, red campion, foxgloves and the rare yellow archangel.

st lawrence millennium walk (le sentier des moulins) – waterworks valleyLe Sentier des Moulins (The Mills Path) was constructed by volunteers from the Parish of St Lawrence to commemorate the Millennium. Cut into the woods and running alongside the stream, the two mile route begins at Handois Reservoir in the north and wends its way down both sides of Waterworks Valley, crossing the road on occasion. There are descriptive plaques at various places along the walk and the path passes the St Lawrence Parish Millennium Stone, a gift from the Société Jersiaise in the year 2000.

The sloping ‘north-to-south’ topography of Jersey provides fast-running streams ideal for mills; many water mills have been recorded in the Island, several of which operated in this valley. They were used for milling corn, fulling cloth, crushing sugar, making paper or grinding malt for beer.

The walk ends in the car park at La Ruelle St. Claire near Millbrook Reservoir.

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Food Trail hens, have Never been happier!Distance: 7.5 m (12k)

This is a circular walk around the lovely parish of Grouville, from where so much of Jersey’s home-grown food is produced. It calls in on two farm shops on the way, with refreshments available at Gorey at the half-way point. The route is predominantly on lanes, but it also crosses the Royal Jersey golf course and takes in the path around Queen’s Valley reservoir.

the route:Start from La Rocque Harbour. Look out to sea from the harbour wall, where the 18th century Seymour Tower dominates the horizon. It was here that the French last attacked on 6th January 1781, landing by the tower, coming ashore across the rocks and marching into St Helier, where they were defeated at the Battle of Jersey. This was to be the last battle on British soil!

oystersTo the north of the tower, and visible at low tide, oysters are being farmed. Held in netted sacks on rows of metal benches, they take two to three years to reach maturity. These are the Pacific oyster “Crassostrea gigas”; they are grown from imported spat (tiny seed) and sold locally in the Fish Market and in most restaurants and exported to France, the UK and many other European countries.

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Walk inland from La Rocque along La Rue du Pont to pass St Peter La Rocque, a fishermen’s chapel built in 1851 with the assistance of local fishermen. The project was started by the Rector of Grouville Church at the time, who was worried he might lose his flock of local fishermen to the Methodists!

happy hensSpeaking of flocks, many of the free-range eggs consumed in Jersey are produced by the 6000 or more hens in the fields alongside the road here. Based on the Rhode Island Red breed, these chickens are imported as point-of-lay pullets and will lay eggs for the next fifteen months. All the 6000 eggs a day laid at Happy Hens are sold to restaurants and shops in Jersey.

Continue straight on where the main road bends to the right, into La Rue des Nouettes, to pass glasshouses on the right growing flowers (notice the ‘honesty box’ where fresh-cut flowers can be bought - don’t forget the money please!), and on the left further along the lane, with tomatoes. Turn left along the main road, then right into the Homefields Farm Shop.

homefields farm shop A family run enterprise, the Le Bruns sell only to the local market, both to the retail trade and, in particular, to the restaurants and hotels. All their products are available in their Farm Shop, which was started several years ago and has been a great success. Their indoor crops include lettuce,

spinach, butternut squash, melons, aubergines, peppers, chilli-peppers, beans, tomatoes and a range of herbs amongst other things.

Walk through the farm and exit on the far side. Turn right up the steep lane, La Ruelle des Tours, ‘the little bendy lane’. Continue towards the windmill, on the site of one of the oldest in Jersey, dating back to the 14th century. The mill, known as ‘Beauvoir’, has always been an important navigational aid, hence the white painted top.

Turn right before the mill down La Rue des Champs, a winding lane offering stunning views over the Royal Bay of Grouville and the imposing Mont Orgueil Castle in the distance.

Turn right at the bottom of the hill to pass one of several parish pumps in Grouville, this one dated 1903, then fork left along Le Rue St Malo. The next turning is again to the left, sharply back along La Rue des Fonds. Take the second turning on the right after some distance (La Rue de la Haye du Puits), just past a house called La Prevelaye.

The Grouville Parish School is on the left at the end of this lane. Turn right here then immediately left towards the War Memorial. The house on the right along this road was formerly the Grouville railway station!

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Cross over the main road – the statue on the right is of Harry Vardon, one of Jersey’s most famous sportsmen. Not only did he win the Open Championship six times, he also crossed the Atlantic in 1906 to win the American event. Make your way down the lane towards the sea beyond the 18th century Fort Henry. The golf course is common land so walkers may walk everywhere except on the Greens.

ramsar siteThe bay is called The Royal Bay of Grouville; together with the Violet Bank this is a vast 3200-hectare area that uncovers at low tide. It stretches around the whole of the south-east corner of Jersey from Gorey to St Helier. In November 2000 it was declared a Ramsar site, designated as a Wetland Area of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.

Turn north keeping the golf course on the left. Follow the track by the wall, or walk along the beach if the tide permits, the length of the golf course, but no further than the house set on the mound inside a moat (formerly Fort William). Cross the course again before reaching the house, over the main road, across Gorey Common and head along La Rue Horman, situated at the end of Gorey Village.

Turn right at the top of La Rue Horman into Le Chemin des Maltières. Turn left at the T-junction at the end of La Chemin des Maltières, and up the steep hill, La Chèvre Rue. Fork left and continue up Côtil Vautier. There are viewing points up this steep lane, known locally as Daisy Hill, so take the opportunity to stop and enjoy the views across to the 13th century Mont Orgueil castle.

Gorey Castle (Le Mont Orgueil – Mount Pride)Built from 1204, after King John ‘Lackland’ lost Normandy, it was the island’s main defence against the French until the end of the 16th century, when Elizabeth Castle took over that responsibility. While its location seems ideal for a fortress, the adjacent hill, Mont Nicholas,

was too close for comfort. As cannon grew increasingly more powerful and accurate the castle became too vulnerable and needed replacing. Recently restored, Mont Orgueil is one of Britain’s best-maintained bastions and Jersey’s most important heritage site.

the Jersey royalThe famous Jersey Royal Fluke is an early potato of superior quality, first discovered by Hugh De La Haye in the1880’s. Its particular flavour, size and ease of preparation have earned the Jersey Royal an ‘appellation contrôlée’ status. Some 32,000 tons are produced each year, mostly

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for export to the UK. Steep, south-facing côtils, where the potatoes are traditionally planted and dug by hand, provide perfect conditions for Jersey Royals. Planted in early January, they are lifted as early as the first week in April. Larger flat fields will be planted over the intervening weeks, with the season ending in mid-June.

Walk to the top of the hill, around the right hand bend and take the second turning on the left, La Rue des Moulins, a narrow lane leading down to Queen’s Valley Reservoir. The large granite building in the distance is St Saviour’s Hospital. Walk through the gate at the bottom of La Rue des Moulins and take the footpath to the left, keeping the reservoir on the right. Leave the reservoir at the first opportunity, just by the plaque commemorating the opening. Walk to the gate and turn right down the hill (La Rue des Teurs Champs), and left onto Le Chemin des Maltières. Turn next right down La Cache des Près.

Turn right at the crossroads opposite the cemetery and walk a short distance up the main

road to the next turning on the left, La Rue des Fonds. Follow this lane for some distance, past where it joins La Rue du Parcq, past the pump and lavoir on the left, to the T-junction at the main inner road (La Rue de Fauvic). Turn right, then first left along La Rue au Long. The Holme Grown farm shop and café is on the left after a short distance, a chance for some well-deserved refreshment.

holme grownThe farm is owned by the Payn family, one of the oldest families in Jersey. With Norman origins, their forebears landed with William at the Conquest at Hastings in 1066 and their descendants came to Jersey in the early 1200’s. The shop has grown from a barrow, at the roadside in 2003, selling herbaceous border plants to the splendid store it is today, selling their own and other produce, and now equipped with its own café.

Rejoin the main road and continue to the crossroads. Follow the main road back to La Rocque.

Leave The Rozel Bay, turn left to walk up the valley (passing the pub car park) and begin to climb the gentle slope. After a short distance, on the wall, is a plaque dedicated to famed Victorian horticulturist, Samuel Curtis.

samuel CurtisDuring the 1830s, Curtis began looking for a suitable site on which to grow the subtropical species that were being grown under glass at Kew. He searched the British Isles fruitlessly for a suitable site; that is until he arrived at Rozel in Jersey, in 1841. Here was a sunny, sheltered,

almost frost-free valley, with a conglomerate soil and its own microclimate, ideal for the subtropical plants that he hoped to grow. Over the following years, he continued to develop what became known as the Tropical Garden of La Chaire. In this garden, Samuel Curtis grew arguably the biggest range of subtropical plants ever found in a garden in the British Isles. He died in 1860 and is buried in the St Martin’s Parish churchyard.

The valley still reveals much of Curtis’ work; with numerous species of unusual plants bordering

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Ale Trail walk 5, the rozel bayDistance: 4m (6.4k)

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the lane. After a sharp bend, you leave the valley floor and begin a stiff climb up towards the mill. At the top of the hill, bear right at the junction, to ascend a little further. The building immediately behind the gates on the right is Rozel Mill.

rozel millEvidence shows that there has been a mill on this site since 1219. Popinjay’s map of 1563 shows three windmills standing: Rozel Mill, St Ouen’s Mill and Grouville Mill. At one time or another there have been 12 windmills and 38 watermills operating in the Island. One has to assume that the three windmills of Popinjay’s day must have been rebuilt or restored, as they, together with St Peter’s Mill which was built in 1837, are the only windmills still standing.

At the end of Rue du Moulin, turn left. Walk on, and take the first right into La Rue du Blanc Pignon. This little-used lane has some fine granite properties along its length. Near the yellow line, this Green Lane has now become Rue de la Pallotterie. Turn right onto the main road, and using care, proceed along it for about half a mile. Pass Marett’s Forge and take the first left into Rue Belin. The big building on the left is St Martin’s Methodist Church. Leave the church and carry on down the lane. When the tarmac ends, follow the path on the left into the woods. At the bottom of the valley, don’t turn right, but go straight ahead up the walled path. On emerging at the top, you can see Rosel Manor across the fields to the left.

rosel manor This manor ranks second in importance only to St Ouen’s Manor, and it is one of the four that have the right to pay homage to the monarch when they visit the Island. When King John lost his lands in France, local knights were forced to decide who to follow. At Rosel Manor, the de Fourneaux family left Jersey to take sides with Philippe Augustus of France, their manor was escheated and, in 1247, it was granted to Drogo de Barentin, Warden of the Isles.

The Manor passed into the Lemprière family who, in 1770, built the manor that we see today. Although the original manor house was demolished, the medieval manorial chapel and the medieval colombier were left intact. In 1890, Philip Lemprière carried out extensive alterations; he covered the granite walls with cement and added the Gothic towers and crenellations.

The path becomes tarmac at the end of Rue des Mares. Here turn left. At the crossroads some way ahead, go straight through into Rue du Scez. The lane bends right and left, and there are magnificent views of the French coast in the distance. Avoid a right turn, and carry straight on towards Saie Harbour.

The lane drops away as you approach the beach. Just as the lane bends right, bear left up a track called La Rue des Fontenelles – footpath to Rozel Hill. Over to the right, what looks like a pile of stones, is actually a dolmen - a Stone Age burial site which is about 5,000 years old.

Follow the track as it meanders past a small reservoir, turns sharp right and continues uphill. Eventually, on reaching the main road, turn right and descend back to Rozel Bay. At the bottom of the hill, bear left and The Rozel Bay is immediately in front of you.

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Parish Walk – St PeterTwo Coasts, an Airport and a LegendDistance: 12m (19.3k) or two circuits of 6m (9.6k)

St Peter’s most unusual feature is that it has two coastlines, one in the west sandwiched between St Brelade and St Ouen, and the other in the south between St Brelade and St Lawrence. The boundaries near the sea in both cases are streams; in the west the stream has been covered by a huge reservoir, and in the south, the track running alongside one of two boundary streams was also used as an ancient sanctuary path leading from churches in the centre and north of the island.

But it is the airport that is the main centre of activity in the parish, and the first place that more than two thirds of Jersey’s visitors see on arrival. Formerly on the beach in St Aubin’s Bay, the airport was moved to its present location in 1937.

Geographically, the parish has two distinctively different characters; the high ground with views across St Ouen’s Bay and the Atlantic Ocean in the west, and the more wooded lanes and valleys of the south and centre. These two walks, both about 6 miles in length, attempt to reflect these differences in their variety of lane, track and footpath. The walking surfaces are a mixture of road and footpaths, which can be muddy at times, so suitable footwear is recommended.

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Route One: The WestStart at the Parish Hall, the centre of parish administration, where the Connétable, similar to a mayor elsewhere, has his office; the Connétable has a seat in the island government, for which he is entitled to a salary, and he is also the head of the Honorary Police, whose offices are at the far end of the Parish Hall.

Leaving the Parish Hall to the left, turn into the churchyard of St Peter’s Church and walk around to the south side, where there is an unusual sundial on the wall. Notice also the lights on top of the spire, necessary because of the proximity of the airport.

Leave the church by the western gate and proceed with care along the main road (La Rue de l’Église) as far as the Millennium Stone. Turn left here along La Route de L’Hermite, which becomes La Rue Rose with the airport perimeter fence on the left. The Millennium Cross is on the next corner at the junction with the main road. Every parish received a cross from the States of Jersey to commemorate the turn of the century. Turn right now along the main road, then immediately left into La Rue de la Pointe and first left again into La Rue des Fontaines. Follow this lane as far as the T-junction with La Rue de la Presse. Turn left at the T-Junction.

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Take the right-hand fork a short distance along Rue de la Presse. This is Les Monts, more a track than a road. At the point where Les Monts bends sharply left, continue straight on and locate a footpath on the left, leading down the cliff. There are spectacular views from this footpath: the length of St Ouen’s Bay comes into view, with the Watersplash surfing centre, the little white guardhouse (‘La Caumine Marie Best’) and the fresh-water pond, La Mare du Seigneur, being the main features within St Peter (the northern boundary runs through the middle of the pond, the southern boundary through the sandpits on the left). St Ouen’s Pond, as La Mare du Seigneur is called these days, is the largest freshwater lake in the Channel Islands.

Follow the track down the hill to join the road and then turn right into the lane as far as the bottom of the hill (Le Mont de la Mare). Turn left at the

T-junction with La Rue de la Mare, then right at the main road, La Route du Port. This is one of a number of roads widened in 1940 by islanders under a scheme to keep locals busy and avoid having to work for the occupying forces.

Cross over the main coast road and take in the splendid view of the vast expanse of beach (if the tide is out), or take care if the tide is in and the waves are breaking against the sea wall! Turn right along the wall towards The Watersplash, the main surfing centre in the bay, and continue on as far as the La Caumine à Marie Best. This little white painted guardhouse was once the home of Marie Best, who lived here with her several children during a smallpox epidemic. It was given to the National Trust by the widow of Captain Hilton in 1975. The area around here is full of colour in spring and early summer, with JerseyThrift and Alderney Sea Lavender respectively.

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Turn back towards The Watersplash and cross the main road at the first turning inland, La Route de la Marette, in the direction of the Les Mielles Golf and Country Club, passing between the practice range and the course itself. Built on sand dunes, the course is a testing one with deep-sided water hazards, from which it is neither possible nor permitted to recover a lost ball!

The lane winds along to some crossroads; turn right towards the little railway bridge, part of a network of railway lines installed during the Occupation for the transportation of sand and stone. Turn left into the car park of La Mare reservoir, keeping to the right hand side, and walk up the track to the top of the hill level with the dam. Take the track around the right hand side of the reservoir, keeping the water always on the left – the other side is in the next parish!

The track passes through an arboretum at its far end and then exits into a car park; turn left along the main road for a short distance, cross the road with care, and then turn right into Verte Rue. Notice the Victorian mailbox in the wall on the left. There is also a popular visitor attraction here, the ‘aMaizin Maze’. Take the first turning right (Le Pont au Bré), and then turn left at the next T-junction (La Grande Route des Augerez) and walk as far as the crossroads by the Parish Pump. Turn right along La Rue D’Auvergne, then right again at the T-junction with La Route des Hêtres. Take great care at the next crossroads and cross over into La Rue des Sapins, then fork first left along La Rue de la Hague. Take the first turning on the right, La Verte Rue, back towards the village. Turn left at the main road and end the walk by the St Peter’s Village Inn - time for some refreshment!

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Route Two: South and CentreStart this walk from the Parish Hall and walk away towards the car park, keeping the car park on the right. The lane bends sharply to the left (La Rue St Clément) towards the main road. Turn right down the lane immediately before the main road (Le Clos St Clément), towards the airport and find the entrance to the track on the left, leading around the edge of the airfield itself. Follow the perimeter track for some distance, ignoring opportunities to turn off on the left, passing the St Peter Football Club ground, until the track joins a road again. Now cross the main airport road, L’Avenue de la Reine Elizabeth II, with great care, into La Rue des Landes opposite.

The Jersey Rugby Club ground is on the right, with the Jersey Bowl at the far end of the clubhouse. The rugby club was formed in 1880 and has amassed a staggering collection of plaques from visiting teams from around the world. Continue for a short distance past the rugby club and then turn left down La Rue Cappelain. Turn right at the T-junction along La Rue des Vignes, ending at a crossroads after some distance. Turn left and descend Le Mont des Vignes; from here there are views across St Aubin’s Bay on the southern coast of the parish. Turn right at the bottom of the hill to pass between fields where cows from the fine Blanc Pignon herd are normally to be seen grazing. The stream running down the side of the lane marks the boundary between St Peter and St Brelade, the lane crossing into St Brelade at the first bend – notice the boundary stone on the side of the road.

Turn left at the main road, cross over at the slipway with care – there is an early 19th century milestone on the corner with the letter ‘B’ and the figure ‘3’ on it, meaning three miles to the statue of George II in the Royal Square in St Helier to this point in the parish of St Brelade. Turn left along the promenade, to pass the Gunsite Café on the right and the 18th century Jersey Round Tower on the left, one of nineteen remaining from 30 built. Walk beyond the next slipway as far as the car park with the yellow telephone kiosk. Turn inland, crossing the main coast road at the pedestrian traffic lights.

Walk up the track through the alleyway of evergreen Holm oak trees. This is a ‘perquage’, a track a ‘perche’ wide (24 feet or 7.3 metres), running alongside a stream below a mill, ensuring access to keep it clear. In medieval times, sanctuary paths led from parish churches to the beach along which criminals could escape without fear of arrest (on condition they never returned). Because perquages were often used for this purpose, the name has come to mean a sanctuary path. The land on either side of this perquage is a flood marsh; the one on the left is called Goose Green because of the hundreds of migrant Brent geese that feed both here and on the beach nearby in winter.

Turn left at Sandybrook – an apt name for the area, which frequently floods when heavy rain coming down the streams coincides with high spring tides – then right down La Rue du Moulin de Tesson. The mill after which the lane is named is situated a little further on.

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Turn left up the track just before the mill, signposted to another mill, Quétivel. This is St Peter’s Valley, one of Jersey’s most attractive. The track leads through the woodland, past Quétivel Mill, fully restored and open to visitors on certain days of the week. Continue now as far as the fork in the path at the Don Gaudin, taking the right hand fork and descending the steps to the little duck-pond (an étang or reservoir to store a head of water when the mill was in use). Walk along the footpath below the road to Gargate, site of another of the mills of St Peter’s Valley.

Walk through the woods taking the track at the bottom of Le Mont des Louannes to the right. Turn left up the next lane, Le Mont du Presbytère, which climbs steeply to the junction with La Rue de la Hague. Continue straight across into La Route du Manoir towards the village. Just before the end of the road is the entrance to Manor Farm, whose herd of Jersey cattle are renowned for the quality of both animal and their milk.

The walk is now back in the centre of the parish – the bus stop on the right on the main road, and the car park behind the shops and the Parish Hall. The Star Inn and the St. Peter’s Country Inn is just opposite the bus stop, a chance for a refreshing homemade brew!

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Walking Festivals Every year Jersey Tourism hosts two Walking Weeks, one in May and the other in September. Both weeks feature an abundance of escorted walks covering the Island’s countryside, coastal tracks and fascinating history and most of these walks are FREE. Take the opportunity to explore some of Jersey’s historic fortifications from the Napoleonic War to WWII. Join our local experts and learn of our military history, with a focus on island life during the Occupation. Why not join the Around Island Walk, a five -day trek that aims to take in every inch of Jersey’s coastline; from beach to spectacular headland, past towers, castles and ancient burial chambers – these are just some of the experiences you’ll encounter on this unique walking extravaganza. Spring Walking Week runs from Saturday 12 – 19 May, with Autumn Walking Week taking place from Saturday 15 – 22 September. A separate brochure will be available for these festivals. For more information call Jersey Tourism on 01534 448877 or log on to www.jersey.com/walking

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Mondaya taste of st.helier every monday from april 2 – september 24 (except may 14, september 17)Time: 10:30 – 13:00Booking essential – Call 01534 853525Price: £10 Meeting point: Liberation Square, St HelierGuide: Arthur Lamy Grade: Easy - 3m (4.8k)

Find out how a handful of fishermen’s huts grew into a major financial centre and hear about our Honorary Police, our unusual relationship with the Monarchy and our first postmaster! Visits include the Town Hall and the Victorian covered markets, with tales of our famous cows and potatoes and maybe even a taste of something local, before reliving the last land battle fought in the British Isles in our own Royal Square.

german fortification Coastal trail every monday from may 14 – august 13Time: 10:30 – 13:00 (please note due to winter bus times on May 14, 21 & 28 this walk will start at 10:00 - 12:30) Price: £7 (includes entry to Command Bunker) Meeting point: Portelet Inn bus stop (public car park) Guide: Martin Walton Grade: Easy - 1.5m (2.4k)

Set against the dramatic seascape of Noirmont, experience Jersey’s dry-land Battleship, Battery Lothringen, a relic of the German Occupation. Conclude with a guided visit inside the two storey subterranean Command Bunker where the oppressive and claustrophobic days of World War II are brought back to life with pinpoint detail.

Guided WalksWhat is it like to live and work in a small island? Where do Islanders come from? What was life like under the ‘jackboot’ in the dark days of World War II? Meander around the most glorious countryside and enjoy ‘behind the scenes’ experiences in a host of locations. Wander through the grounds of an ancient manor house, explore lighthouses and bunkers, discover hidden gardens and valleys, uncover stories of pirates, murder and mayhem or ramble around rock pools at low tide.

Jersey is a feast for the senses. One of the very best ways to explore Jersey is to leave the car behind and join one of the Island’s experts on a host of walking experiences.

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hidden gardens of rozelevery monday from april 9 – June 25 and september 3 – october 29Time: 14:00 – 17:30Booking essential – Call 07797 768058Price: £10 Meeting point: Rozel Inn, Rozel Bay, St MartinGuide: Remi Couriard Grade: Moderate - 6m (9.6k)

There is nothing more enchanting than a secret garden. Beyond each filigree gate and behind every manicured hedge there are stories to tell; crumbling walls, terraces reclaimed by ivy, hidden glades, dolmens and ancient Manor houses. As well as great views of our cousins in Normandy, discover lovers and adventurers, pioneers and artists, peacocks and red squirrels around every corner of this beautiful parish.

victorian visitors every monday from april 2 – september 24 (except may 14, september 17)Time: 14:00 – 16:30Booking essential – Call 01534 853525Price: £10 Meeting point: St Luke’s Church, La Route de Fort, St Saviour (just inside Howard Davis Park)Guide: Arthur Lamy Grade: Easy - 3m (4.8k)

Dearest Mother,Have just arrived in Jersey. The voyage over from Weymouth on the SS Roebuck took nine hours, but the weather was good! Our rooms at Mr Prince’s Hotel at Havre des Pas are near the new ladies’ bathing facility. Tomorrow we shall go on a charabanc tour and the next day we may go on the train. Albert sends his love. Affectionately, Maude

Find out what Maude and Albert did on their holiday to Jersey in 1900.

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Tuesdaylillie langtry – the prince’s mistressevery tuesday from april 3 – september 25 (except may 15, september 18)Time: 10:30 – 13:00Booking essential – Call 01534 853525Price: £10 Meeting point: St Saviour’s Church, St Saviour’s Hill, St Saviour - Finish at Bath St, St HelierGuide: Arthur Lamy Grade: Moderate - 3m (4.8k)

Born in October 1853, Emilie Charlotte Le Breton was destined to lead a life that others either dreamt of, or disapproved of. Inspired by the professional beauties of the time, she had her future planned at an early age. Married at 20 to Edward Langtry, a seemingly wealthy Irish playboy, she escaped her island home and finally arrived in Belgravia in London in 1876. From the moment she was absorbed into London Society her rise to fame was meteoric: a friend of Oscar Wilde, socialite, actress, racehorse owner and successful business woman, this is the story of a ground-breaking woman far ahead of her time.

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living with the enemy – the time team special every tuesday from april 17 – october 9Time: 10:30 – 12:45Price: £7 Meeting point: Gunsite Café, Beaumont – Finish at Jersey War Tunnels, St Lawrence Guide: Tom Bunting Grade: Easy – 2m (3.2k)

Delve into life in Jersey when it was occupied in World War II. What was life like for everyday people? What did they eat? How did they know what was going on in the outside world? See original trenches built by the occupying forces as the walk passes from country lanes to woodland in an area excavated on Channel 4’s ‘Time Team’. Last stop is the famous Jersey War Tunnels; eat in the Sanctuary Restaurant or explore the tunnels for a truly evocative experience. (Lunch and entrance to the site at own expense).

murder, muck and mayhemevery tuesday from may 22– september 11Time: 19:30 – 21:30Price: £7 Meeting point: Royal Square, St Helier Guide: Tom Bunting Grade: Easy – 2m (3.2k)

By the dim light of dusk, lift the veil on the murkier side of Jersey’s capital as you find yourself in parts of town that are ‘off the beaten track’. Gruesome events and bizarre characters, oddities and quirks, murder, muck and mayhem; within this twilight world, discover the events that really shaped the island.

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Wednesdayst helier to st aubin – trains and boats and planesevery wednesday from april 4 – september 26 (except may 16, september 19)Time: 10:30 – 13:00Booking essential – Call 01534 853525Price: £10 Meeting point: Liberation Square, St Helier – Finish at St Aubin, St BreladeGuide: Arthur Lamy Grade: Easy - 3m (4.8k)

Follow the line of the Jersey Railways and Tramways Company to St Aubin and relive the sights and sounds of the age of steam. Hear about the 19th century shipbuilders, the bus service across the sands and the Bread Riots of the 1840s. Move into the 20th century as dance halls replace boatyards and our visitors start to arrive in biplanes that land on the sands. Philanthropists build parks on scrubland and renovate chapels of ease, whilst high-powered cars race along Victoria Avenue and thousands flock to the Battle of Flowers.

st aubin - in the shadow of the black hill every wednesday from april 4 – september 26 (except may 16, september 19)Time: 14:00 – 16:30Booking essential – Call 01534 853525Price: £10 Meeting point: St Brelade’s Parish Hall, St Aubin, Guide: Arthur Lamy Grade: Moderate - 3m (4.8k) one steep hill!

Take a stroll around St Aubin; once the commercial heart of Jersey and its main port. Hear about merchants, benefactors, privateers and fishermen. Find out how the village grew, the coming of Methodism, the Cod Triangle and the legend of Ghost Hill. See the old elementary school, the church of St Aubin on the Hill with its window created by Edward Burne-Jones (the Pre-Raphaelite artist), the pub where Karl Marx stayed and the ancient seat of the Seigneurs of Francfief.

st aubin at twilight – a New evening walkevery wednesday from april 4 – september 26 (except may 16, september 19)Time: 18:30 – 21:00Booking essential – Call 01534 853525Price: £10 Meeting point: St Brelade’s Parish Hall, St Aubin, Guide: Arthur Lamy Grade: Moderate - 3m (4.8k) one steep hill!

Take an evening stroll around St Aubin as the lights come on and the bars and restaurants come alive. Once the commercial heart of Jersey and its main port, now the harbour walls are lined with pleasure craft and the main evening activity is eating and drinking! Hear about privateers who ruled the local waters, fishermen who crossed the Atlantic to the Grand Banks and merchants whose generosity is still with us today.

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Thursdayforever sunset every thursday evening from may 24 – august 30 Call 07797 775696 for times, no booking requiredPrice: £10 Meeting point: La Corbière public car park, rear of Corbière Phare Restaurant, St Brelade.Guide: Pete Webb Grade: Moderate – 2.5 m (4k)

Heady feelings of romance fill the evening air as the cosmic golden fire touches the metal sea. As the present fades to dreams, wander La Lande du Ouest amid puce heather and golden gorse, and let the soft, salty air whisper stories of this ancient land. Weird, wiggly indentations penetrate the rocky shore and, in the distance, the ivory tower of light guides us west to witness and hold the day in our memory.

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Fridayweekly walks from les Charrieres hotel every friday from may 18 – september 21Time: 10:00 – 12:30Price: Free, kindly provided by Les Charrieres Hotel Meeting point: Les Charrieres Country Hotel, St Peter Guide: Remi Couriard Grade: Moderate – 4m (6.4k)

Have you heard about Jersey’s Green Lanes? As walkers, you have priority here and can wander in peace and quiet past historic water mill sites, traditional Jersey granite houses and the lush valleys in the heart of St Mary. Immerse yourself in the verdant beauty of the island’s rural centre and, at the same time, gain an insight into the lifestyle of yesteryear.

hidden heritage of st aubinevery friday from april 13 – June 29 and september 7 – November 2Time: 14:00 – 17:00Booking essential – Call 07797 768058Price: £10 Meeting point: La Haule Manor Hotel, St AubinGuide: Remi Couriard Grade: Moderate - 4m (6.4k)

From the outskirts of St Aubin, find secret views of the Bay and glimpse into the past. Begin your journey through woods near the picturesque harbour, before venturing out (when tides allow) to St Aubin’s Fort, a Tudor stronghold rising from the sands. Enter a German war tunnel hidden deep beneath the hillside and pass through private gardens, idyllic woodlands, a quaint cobbled street lined with ‘Chocolate Box’ houses and a former railway line, now a peaceful country pathway for pedestrians and cyclists.

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gorey- in the shadow of the Castle every friday from april 13 – september 28 (except may 18, september 21) morning and afternoonTime: 10:30 – 13:00 AND 14:00 – 16:30Booking essential – Call 01534 853525Price: £10 Meeting point: Gorey Pier bus terminus, St Martin Guide: Arthur Lamy Grade: Moderate - 3m (4.8k) one steep hill!

Its fascinating story stretches from the Neolithic Period to the present day, and here’s your chance to get the low-down on Gorey; the oyster fishing boom, treachery in the castle and other intriguing tales are as colourful as some of its famous residents: George Eliot, golfing legend Harry Vardon, and the man who captured the Rosetta Stone! Visit the unique Faldouet dolmen and Victoria Tower (the last Martello built in Europe) before winding your way through village lanes and following the route of the Jersey Eastern Railway to end at the Pier.

gorey at twilight – a New evening walkevery friday from april 6 – september 28 (except may 18, september 21)Time: 18:30 – 21:00Booking essential – Call 01534 853525Price: £10 Meeting point: Gorey Pier bus terminus, St Martin Guide: Arthur Lamy Grade: Moderate - 3m (4.8k) one steep hill!

Enjoy Gorey as the sun goes down and hear about the mighty Mont Orgueil Castle, King John’s stronghold within sight of France. Visit the unique Faldouet dolmen created by the first settlers then stroll among the tiny fishermen’s cottages and churches that make up the village. Head back to Gorey with its many pubs and restaurants along the route of the Jersey Eastern Railway.

Sundayst helier – occupation to liberationevery sunday from april 29 – august 12Time: 10:30 – 13:00Price: £5 Meeting point: Jersey Tourism, Liberation Place, St Helier Guide: Martin Walton Grade: Easy – 2.5m (4k)

Jersey was occupied by the Germans throughout World War II. Visit sites around St Helier’s Harbour with poignant reminders of events from both the Occupation and Liberation of the Island. Hear what really happened during those fateful days.

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behind enemy lines Call 07797 775696 for times, no booking requiredPrice: £10 Meeting point: Front entrance, Howard Davis Park, St Helier - Finish at Liberation Square, St Helier Guide: Pete Webb Grade: Easy - 2 m (3.2k)

How it began and why Jersey was late for the Liberation. An exploration of Jersey’s World War II German Occupation visiting the War cemetery and the lonely grave. Stories of heroism and collaboration. Who made the deciding factors to many German commands? Stories of prisoners and escapees. Was Churchill right in not defending the Islands? And, not forgetting, Jersey’s own ‘Dunkirk’.

April 1, 9, 15, 22, May 6, 11, 20, September 23, 30, October 7, 21, 25, 29

forever summer Call 07797 775696 for times, no booking requiredPrice: £10 Meeting point: Lych Gate, St Lawrence Church, St Lawrence Guide: Pete Webb Grade: Moderate – 3.5 m (5.6k)

A walk in summer is to immerse yourself in morning meadows and the mystery of nature. Explore valleys and wooded côtils; smell and touch Jersey’s nature in deep, glorious countryside. Pink, Jersey granite farmhouses take you back to yesteryear, and bygone memories, as bubbling brooks meander to valley bottoms and lakes adding soft sounds and contentment to this beautiful walk.

April 2, 17, May 1, 9, 22, September 25, October 2, 9, 23

Walks on specific dates

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forever Nature Call 07797 775696 for times, no booking requiredPrice: £10 Meeting point: The Oyster Box, near St Brelade’s Bay bus stop, St Brelade Guide: Pete Webb Grade: Moderate – 3.5 m (5.6k)

The high and the low of the natural world in an exotic location of heath, common and cliffs. An SSI that is flowing with nature from beach to a hidden nature rock-garden with views swirled with sea air. Your mind is lost in mesmerising vistas that make you want more and more of this magical dream as one scene changes to other mind tingling vistas. The moment is now to treasure and keep.

April 3, 6, 12, 20, 25, May 4, 8

forever goldenCall 07797 775696 for times, no booking requiredPrice: £10 Meeting point: War Memorial near St Brelade’s Church, St Brelade’s Bay Guide: Pete Webb Grade: Moderate - 3 m (4.8k)

Soak up Jersey’s golden corner of sunsets and pinky-gold coloured ancient granite; the land of wild sculptures made by the wind and man. Allow your senses to drift back in time and meet the achievers of this ‘gem’ in the sea. Experience the gold coloured cliffs stretching down before you as you savour the creamy sand of the beaches and the azure blue of the bays and touch the rare flora at your feet.

April 4, 18, 24, May 2, 23, September 26, October 3, 10, 24

st helier – the old Quarter Call 07797 775696 for times, no booking requiredPrice: £10 Meeting point: Liberation Square, St Helier Guide: Pete Webb Grade: Easy - 2 m (3.2k)

Literally, the old and ancient part of St.Helier with surprises around every corner as we weave our way through the heart of this old town. Its development from the early 19th century offers many surprises as we discover the effects of migration and the trading community; and the discovery of one woman’s persistence in getting what she wanted from the States of Jersey - much to our benefit today.

April 5, May 25, September 28, October 5, 22, 26

Corbière lighthouse – seeing the lightBooking essential – Call 01534 448877 or pop into Jersey Tourism Price: £12 (includes a donation to RNLI)Meeting point: Lower car park by cottages, La Corbière, St BreladeGuides: Sue Hardy and Sheila Mallet Grade: Easy – 1m (1.6k) + steps!Private group bookings on request

A rare opportunity to see inside the famous lighthouse of La Corbière. Explore the dramatic headland with your guides and be entertained with tales of tides and shipwrecks, the building of the lighthouse and the men who kept Watch for over 100 years. Cross the causeway, uncovered at half tide, and climb up the spiral staircase to the lantern room to discover the intricacies of 19th, 20th and 21st century technology, and to enjoy spectacular views. Times advised when booking.

April 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 22, 28, May, 5, 6, 7, 9, 20, 21, 26, 27, June 4, 5, July 7, 8, 21, 22, 23, August 4, 5, 6, 8, 18, 19, 20 September 1, 2, 3, 4, 15, 16, 19, 21, 28, 29, 30Sunset Tours – April 29, May 11, 12, 13, July 28, 29, September 8, 9

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rock pool rambles Times advised when booking Booking essential – Call 01534 448877 or pop into Jersey Tourism Price: £7 Meeting point: La Rocque Harbour Slip, GrouvilleGuides: Sue Hardy and Sheila Mallet Grade: Easy – 0.5m (0.8k)

Discover the wet and wobbly world of rock-pools and the strange creatures who call the incredible tidal habitat of Jersey’s prime RAMSAR site ‘home’. Find out what colour a prawn is…before it’s put on your plate! Discover who lives in which shells, which are vegetarians and who is hunting its prey. Say ‘Hi!’ to a crab, ‘Hello’ to a starfish and meet many other wriggly, wiggly, weird and wonderful creatures. You’ll be amazed at how tough most of these seemingly fragile sea-creatures are! Shoes for paddling are recommended. Be prepared to get wet to the knees; bring a bucket and/or net - or just yourselves. Unaccompanied adults welcome!

July 19, 20, 31, August 1, 2, 3

the oyster trailTimes and departure point advised when bookingBooking essential – Call 07797853033 or email info@jerseywalkadventure.co.uk Price: £12.50 adults, £6.25 childrenGuides: Derek Hairon and Trudie Trox Grade: Easy – 2m (3.2k) you may get wet feet!Web: www.jerseywalkadventures.co.uk

Visit the oyster and mussel beds off La Rocque Harbour. Hear about the fascinating history of the cultivation of shellfish in Jersey, the biggest in the British Isles. At the end of the walk sample oysters, which chefs consider an absolute delicacy.

April 5, 12, May 21, June 2, 10, 24, July 1, 24, August 6, 22, September 15, 30, November 18December 10

Marine Tours

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walk with the stars at Your feet Times and departure point advised when bookingBooking essential – Call 07797853033 or email info@jerseywalkadventure.co.uk Price: £14.50 adults, £7.25 childrenGuides: Derek Hairon and Trudie Trox Grade: Easy – 2m (3.2k) you may get wet feet!Web: www.jerseywalkadventures.co.uk

As night descends and the ocean recedes, star like shapes of luminous green (bio-luminescence) begin to twinkle and sparkle in a few special spots off the south east coast. Expect to get your feet wet -maybe up to the knees - as you discover and experience the uniqueness of this area. In just a few hours the ocean will return and cover your footprints by up to 40ft. Walks are in small groups. Note: The amount of bio-luminescence can vary.

April 16, May 16, 18, June 15, 16, 30, July 14, 29, August 14, 27, September 12, 25, October 24, 26, November 10, December 22

wild vegetables of the ocean Times and departure point advised when bookingBooking essential – Call 07797853033 or email info@jerseywalkadventure.co.uk Price: £14.50 adults, £7.25 childrenGuides: Derek Hairon and Trudie Trox Grade: A gentle walk in the intertidal zone, expect to get your feet wet up to your knees!Web: www.jerseywalkadventures.co.uk

Inspired by Asian and Irish traditions, modern chefs are increasingly using seaweeds in their recipes; Seabass on a bed of Bladderwrack or Dulse and smoked fish tart. For centuries Jersey’s seashore has been highly valuable to farmers as a source of fertiliser for the Jersey Royal Potatoes. Cosmetics, food flavourings and medicine utilise the remarkable properties of algae. Join us on a guided walk on the seabed in search of these remarkable plants. Learn about their culinary and medicinal uses along with the history of seaweed gathering. All around Jersey a harvest of sea vegetables is waiting to be foraged to enrich our daily cooking – or an invigorating bath.

May 22, July 20, September 4, 16

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moonwalks on the seabed – various routesTimes and departure point advised when bookingBooking essential – Call 07797853033 or email info@jerseywalkadventure.co.uk Price: £14.50 adults, £7.25 childrenGuides: Derek Hairon and Trudie Trox Grade: Varies depending on routeWeb: www.jerseywalkadventures.co.uk

Walk the gullies and gutters, cross sand bars and rock pools to discover Jersey’s very own wilderness area. Revel in the stillness and expanse of an area that is covered twice a day by the ocean. Participants should be prepared to get wet to the knee (and sometimes higher!). Other dates and times are possible depending on the tides. More dates may be added subject to demand. Please check the website for more details. Please note: due to the speed the tide rises you should not venture into this area unless you have local knowledge.

seymour towerApril 6, 10, 24May 5, 8, 9, 24, 25June 4, 21, 23, 25 July 4, 5, 9, 22 August 2, 4, 7, 17, 23 September 3, 14, 29October 2, 20, 28November 3, 11December 2, 30

icho towerApril 9 June 5 August 20 September 17October 18November 16December 15

family walk towards seymourJune 6July 25August 3, 19September 2October 30

beyond the tower - to karame beacon/violet bankApril 8May 6August 21October 17November 15

two towers walkApril 7May 7 September 18October 16

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moonwalks and marine explorations with andrew syvret from sea JerseyTimes and departure point advised when booking Booking essential – Call 07797 718472or email andrew@seajersey.com Price: walks vary from £5 - £15Web: www.seajersey.com

Forget the rest of the world for a few hours and take a wander with the Island’s most experienced seashore guide, marine biologist Andrew Syvret. Experience some of the most remarkable marine habitats on the planet, follow coastal footpaths, visit iconic landmarks, watch precious wildlife and sample our culture - with a true local. Andrew has been showing visitors and residents alike ‘the other half of Jersey’ for over seventeen years. Join him on either a Moonwalk to Seymour or Icho Towers, a Two Towers walk covering over 5 miles and visiting both towers, a Lunatic Nightwalk that heads out to the towers around midnight, his West Coast Odyssey walk from Grosnez to La Pulente or a gentle introduction to maritime Jersey on a stroll to La Corbière Lighthouse. To learn more, check out the website.

moonwalks April 6, 9, 21, May 5, 6, June 2, 3, 4, 17, 23, 30, July 1, 5, 7, 8, 21, August 3, 4, 16, 18, 19, 20, September 1, 2, 15, 16, 29two towers April 7, May 7, September 17, 18lunatic Nightwalk April 6, 8, May 5, 6, June 2, 3, 30, July 1, August 2, 31, September 1, west Coast odyssey April 14, 28, May 9, 13, June 21, July 22, August 5, 22, September 30 la Corbière April 11, May 19, June 16, 24, July 15, 29, August 8, 23

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les Écréhous - discover a wild beauty Times and departure point advised when bookingBooking essential – Call 07797853033 or email info@jerseywalkadventure.co.uk Price: £55 adults, £45 childrenGuides: Derek Hairon and Trudie Trox Grade: A good agility is required, e.g. climbing down a 3ft ladder and walking over bolder strewn areas.Web: www.jerseywalkadventures.co.uk

Les Écréhous are a hidden treasure mid-way between France and Jersey; a site of unique interest and protected as an international Ramsar wetland site. Amble between the cluster of former fishermen’s cabins on La Marmotière and walk over huge sand bars which are submerged under many metres of ocean twice a day. Experience a nature of extremes and remarkable birds as well as fascinating plants and creatures of the sea in a bizarre landscape.

Travel to the reef by charter boat (withinside seating) and explore with your guide the exceptional nature and history of this miniature world. You may see dolphins en-route to the archipelago or a seal close to the reef. Les Écréhous has featured on BBC’s Coast and Countryfile.

May 19, 26, June 17, July 8, August 18, September 1

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Walking with the National Trust for JerseyDiscover the varied and extensive work of The National Trust for Jersey on a series of walks. The Trust has devised several programmes of walks for everyone to enjoy, escorted by experienced and knowledgeable guides and volunteers. Choose from Stepping Out, Ranger Rambles and Surf and Turf walks. All walks are free to members, and a minimum donation required of £5 for non members.

Stepping Outfabulous flowers saturday april 14Meet: Ouaisné car park, St. Brelade at 14:30 Join botany expert Tina Hull and take a closer look at the Island’s most beautiful spring flowers at one of the Island’s richest and most diverse nature reserves, Ouaisné. With habitats ranging from coastal strip, dune slacks, woodland, pond and marsh, it truly is one of the most unique and special areas in the island. This walk is sure to leave you with a spring in your step.

how the ouest was ouen saturday may 12 Booking essential – call 01534 483193. Details of times, parking and where to meet is advised when booking.

Join coastal guide Andrew Syvret to explore the upper shore at the northern end of St Ouen’s Bay. Take a stroll along the strandline amid the flotsam and jetsam, preferred habitat of the beachcomber, whilst learning about the evolution of our largest bay, in the shadow of the historic sea defence’s that have made our west coast what it is today.

landscape through the lens saturday June 9 Booking essential – call 01534 483193. Details of times, parking and where to meet is advised when booking. A walk with Tricia Kennedy, who was awarded the Associateship of the Royal Photographic Society, which will focus on both buildings and landscapes of Grève de Lecq, for example: The Barracks, Le Câtel Fort and the beach environment.

flock on the rocks saturday July 14 Meet: Devil’s Hole car park, St. John at 14:30 Enjoy a rare opportunity to meet and greet the Manxhorn sheep of the north coast in the company of their shepherd Aaron Le Couteur from C.S. Conservation. Learn about the very special individuals within the flock as well as their role in regenerating our beloved north coast.

marvellous mothssaturday august 11Booking essential – call 01534 483193. Details of times, parking and where to meet is advised when booking. Lights camera, action! Join Roger Long, Chairman of the Société Jersiaise Entomology Section, at dusk for a summer evening of capturing and identifying our beautiful moths. If you have identification books then bring them along as we are sure that there will be a few surprises along the way.

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birds on the edge saturday september 8 Meet: Sorel Point upper car park (at end of cliff path), St. John at 14:30 The cliff tops along the Island’s north coast are amongst the most spectacular scenery in the Channel Islands. These rugged cliffs are home to seabirds at their base as well as songbirds inhabiting the land at their tops. Sadly, following the abandonment of farming along much of this wild area, the diversity of wildlife has dramatically decreased. Join Dr. Glyn Young, Conservation Biologist at Durrell, to walk along the cliff path to see those birds that survive and learn about exciting plans to restore the area and return the formerly resident Red-billed chough.

wonderful woodlands saturday october 13Meet: Mill pond car park, St. Peter’s Valley, St. Peter at 14:30 Autumn is a time of great change for the island’s woodlands, not only for the wildlife they contain but for their management as well. Join Jon Parkes, the National Trust for Jersey’s Senior Ranger, to learn how the Trust manages its woodlands as well as the opportunity to see the tree that has the ‘official’ title of Jersey’s largest Beech.

the sunday town stroll with John mallett sunday November 4Meet: Entrance to Green Street car park, St. Helier at 14:00

From a few thatched fishermen’s huts on marshy land to the bustling metropolis that is now a major international finance centre, St. Helier has gone through quite a transformation. Join John Mallett and discover that underneath this transformation of Jersey’s main town is a long history of rich and quirky stories that are waiting to be told on this gentle walk.

wader watching saturday december 8 Meet: Big Vern’s car park, St. Ouen’s Bay, St. Ouen at 10:30

Binoculars at the ready - Join Jon Horn, the National Trust for Jersey’s Lands Manager, for a gentle walk around one of our most important wetland sites, looking for the charismatic winter birds that are our waders. Please make sure you dress for the weather with Wellington boots a must.

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Ranger Ramblesst ouen’s pond sunday may 13 & 27Meet: Car park opposite Kempt Tower, Five Mile Road, St Ouen’s Bay at 10:30 Join one of our ranger team on a gentle ramble around the habitats of St Ouen’s Pond and discover how the Trust manages this wetland wonderland. As the walk meanders through the wet meadows you will find yourself immersed in the spectacular annual orchid bloom as well as learning about other flowers and plants of the area. May is also the time when the birdlife is extremely vocal and on the walk you will get a chance to experience the harmonic warbles of the reed bed birds and, undoubtedly, get a chance to witness the majestic Marsh Harriers. May 13 is also the Orchid Field Open Day.

don paton sunday June 10 & 24Meet: Top car park of the Priory Inn, Devil’s Hole, St Mary at 10:30. There will be steep sections to this walk.

Each summer the Trust’s shepherd releases this year’s lambs out onto the coastal heathland between Sorel Point and Devil’s Hole. During this ranger-led walk you will get to meet the sheep, learn about the history of livestock farming on the coast in Jersey as well as why the Trust has reverted back to grazing to improve this beautiful stretch of rugged coastline.

Surf and Turf Surf and Turf is a series of walks led by Bob Tompkins, a local naturalist, to help us discover how the Inter-Tidal areas of the South East Coast relate to the inland marsh habitats. Booking essential – call 01534 483193. Details of times and where to meet is advised when booking.

surf - inter-tidal Zone July 22, august 19, september 16, october 14The surf walks will include 2 walks out to and beyond Seymour Tower and 2 walks to the gullies of Icho Tower. Learn about how the weather and tidal streams play a major role in forming the feeding grounds and beach scrapes used by shore birds and waders along the south east coast.

turf - grouville marsh July 8, august 12, september 9, october 7 Bring your binoculars and enjoy the stunning views of the marsh habitat and adjacent land which is rich in bird life. Explore the water meadows and the marsh woodland, as well as the reed beds and surrounding habitat, giving us the opportunity to discover and discuss many plants, insects and birds along the way.

For more detailed information simply contact the National Trust for Jersey on 01534 483193 or log on to www.nationaltrust.je

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tom bunting – blue badge guideCall: 01534 482822 / 07797 780868Email: tom.bunting@localdial.comAn experienced Blue Badge Guide providing all types of walking, driving and coach tours, from the general, unusual & bizarre, to the historical, political & educational, Tom is also a qualified and experienced teacher. This year’s regular tours include “Living with the Enemy” every Tuesday morning and “Murder, Muck and Mayhem” every Tuesday evening.

remi Couriard – blue badge guideCall: 07797 768058Email: walkwithremi@gmail.comWebsite: www.walkinginjersey.comWalking and cycling is what Remi does best! Join him to experience Jersey’s tranquil Green Lanes and breath-taking coastal views, drawing on his skills and knowledge. As an Internationally experienced artist and guide, Remi can show you unexplored paths and places not normally accessible to the public and advise on locations from which to photograph the beauty of Jersey.

Meet the GuidesLet us introduce you to some of our most popular and experienced guides whose combined knowledge should be enough to answer almost any question you would care to pose about Jersey. Many of the guides offer regular tours, but they can all be contacted to arrange private or bespoke adventures.

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martin walton – blue badge guideCall: 01534 853639 / 07797 820924Email: martinwalton@hotmail.comWebsite: www.walkingjerseyfortifications.comA Blue Badge Guide with a wide range of experience from conference coach trips around the Island and country walks to Napoleonic to German Occupation fortification walks. Martin’s experience includes the provision of his expertise and knowledge to war museums. Testimonials are available upon request.

pete webb – blue badge guide Call: 01534 858006 / 07797 775696Email: petewebb@localdial.comPete is a professional Blue Badge Guide with sixteen years of experience. He is a Member of the Institute of Tourist Guiding (London) and is currently the Chairman of the Jersey Tourist Guides Association. His ‘Walks with Webb’ themed tours cover the German Occupation, marine wildlife, heritage, history, pagan folklore and Pete’s love of wild flora. He is an Accredited Wildlife Safe Operator (WiSe) - this is a coastal and shore-based qualification, which means not only are you in safe hands, but the wildlife is too!

sue hardy – blue badge guideCall: 01534 863676 / 07797 814694Email: hardysue@hotmail.co.ukAn extremely knowledgeable guide, Sue is equally at home leading walkers or coach tours around town or countryside and in museums, castles and churches. Sue’s special areas of interests are: rural and military history and The National Trust for Jersey.

arthur lamy – blue badge guideCall: 01534 853525 / 07797 713592Email: arthur@arthurthebluebadgeguide.comWebsite: www.arthurthebluebadgeguide.comA Jersey-born, nationally published writer and photographer, Arthur is a highly experienced Blue Badge Guide providing walking, cycling, car and coach tours for individuals, families, media and corporate groups. Itineraries created and implemented!

hugh gill – blue badge guideCall: 01534 720882 / 07797 720192Email: hugh.gill@jerseymail.co.ukA full-time Blue Badge Guide with over twelve years guiding experience, Hugh is at home speaking English, German and French. Hugh’s experience in walking, cycling, car and coach tours for individuals, groups and conferences extends to all the Channel Islands, Normandy and Brittany.

kevin daly – blue badge guideCall: 01534 853917 / 07797 721279Email: admin@walkingjersey.co.ukWebsite: www.walkingjersey.co.uk Kevin is an outdoor enthusiast with years of trekking experience in Europe and Africa and is a qualified British Hill Walkers Leader. Kevin particularly enjoys leading groups in walking and cycling holidays.

derek hairon – wild life safe (wise) guideCall: 01534 853138 / 07797 853033Email: info@jerseywalkadventures.co.ukWebsite: www.jerseywalkadventures.co.uk Derek Hairon of Jersey Walk Adventures spent much of his childhood exploring the area around La Rocque harbour and now guides intrepid ’moonwalkers’ on several rambling routes across the seabed at low tide. Derek also operates Jersey Kayak Adventures, is a trained teacher of outdoor pursuits and has over 25 years of kayaking experience.

andrew syvret – marine biologistCall: 01534 485201 / 07797 718472Email: andrew@seajersey.comWebsite: www.seajersey.comBorn into a centuries old Jersey family, Andrew has salt in his blood. A natural born green communicator, Andrew often simply ‘thinks aloud’ when out and about with a group - prompted by surroundings and discoveries. Comfortable when addressing all levels of understanding from infant to post-graduate, he has already guided several thousand souls across the Island’s shores and around its coastal waters, by day and night.

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Important Notes for WalkersUnless otherwise stated, these escorted walks do not require pre-booking; just turn up on time at the meeting point to partake. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Unless otherwise stated, all routes are circular and will bring you back to your starting point. Where possible, all routes have been programmed to coincide with local bus services.

Please bring suitable clothing and footwear for your walk. Whilst many of the walks are on country lanes, some are on coastal paths, off road or on the beaches, so walking boots or stout shoes with good grips are recommended.

All persons participating in any aspect of this programme do so at their own risk and none of the guides can take responsibility for personal injury. Please note that all distances shown are approximate.

Buses It’s easy to explore Jersey using the public buses; there are a total of 19 different bus routes around Jersey, enabling you to get to and from your destination with ease. All routes leave from Liberation Station in St Helier. Here you will find the dedicated stands at which the timetable information for that route is displayed.

Travel Passes are available for 1, 3, and 5 days and most of the fleet have easy access for wheelchair users.

Timetables are free and are available from Liberation Station and Jersey Tourism. Route timetables are available at many of the bus stops around the Island. The timetable also shows a route map with all the designated stops along the way.

For information about Tickets, Fares, Unlimited Travel Passes and full Timetables, visit www.mybus.je

Shop Jersey – Jersey TourismThe Visitor Centre at Liberation Place in St Helier is the ideal first stop for your holiday. Where better than here to pick up a fantastic selection of maps, guides and publications detailing walks around every inch of the Island, some of which are free of charge. Browse the well-stocked shelves and, if you need some extra advice, talk to one of the friendly team who are always happy to answer your questions. A selection of the publications for sale are listed below:

Related Publications to purchase from Jersey Tourism

Jersey Rambles £6.95Jersey Jaunts £5.95Street Atlas Travel Map £4.50Ordinance Survey Map £8.50South West Coast Footpath Guide £2.00Stroll Around the Stones £6.10Parish Walks volume 1 £1.80North Coast Walking Routes £1.00

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For further information visit: www.jersey.com

Jersey Tourism, Liberation Place, St Helier, JE1 1BBTel: +44 (0)1534 448877 Fax: +44 (0)1534 448898 Email: info@jersey.com

All information correct at time of print – March 2012

All guided walks are the responsibility of the individual guides – Jersey Tourism cannot be held responsible for any subsequent changes or cancellations.

walkJerseyDates for your

Diary 2012may 9

Liberation Day

may 12 - 19Spring Walking Week

June 23Itex Walk

June 17 - 24June in Bloom

august 9 - 10Battle of Flowers Carnival

september 13International Air Display

september 15 - 22Autumn Walking Week

december 1 - 16La Fête dé Noué

Jersey tourism and the idea works take our responsibilities very seriously.All waste materials from the printing of this guide are recycled, including aluminium plates, metal ink tins & plastic ink cartridges, the ink itself, paper, cardboard and even the wood from the delivery pallets.

THE AROUND ISLAND WALK 2 Guides, 5 days, 50 miles!JERSEY FOOD TRAILSUncover the Genuine Flavour of JerseyBEHIND ENEMY LINESAn Island Fortress - discover darker days

springwalking2012

WEEK

www.jersey.com

Saturday 12 - Saturday 19 May

autumnwalking2012

WEEK

www.jersey.com

THE AROUND ISLAND WALK

2 Guides, 5 days, 50 miles!

JERSEY FOOD TRAILS

Uncover the Genuine Flavour of Jersey

BEHIND ENEMY LINESAn Island Fortress - discover darker days

Saturday 15 - Saturday 22 September