Bike & Boat Filling FastSecure your cabin now
Duration
7 days
Activities
  • self guided walk
Accommodation
  • 3 star hotel
Meals
  • 6 Breakfasts

Price

$1020USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: WCJ

Trip highlights


  • Walking around the whole of Jersey
  • Beautiful sea and island walks, crossing bays and beaches and rugged cliffs
  • Historical interest including historic fortresses
  • Great seafood
  • Migratory bird life especially April to June
  • An extra day is recommended for nature lovers to see Gerald Durrell's Zoo

This centre based walking tour around the island of Jersey is the shorter half (80km/49 miles) of The Channel Island Way, an unofficial 177 km/110 mile trail around the accessible Channel Islands in The English Channel. Originally part of the Duchy of Normandy, William the Conqueror bequeathed the islands to the English Crown where they remained even after the mainland parts of the Duchy had been absorbed by the French Crown. Today they exist as a collection of ‘States’ under the U.K. but independent to it in many ways under a political set up called a ‘Bailiwick.’ The islands all have a separate character and could be likened to some of the nicest parts of Cornwall.

Jersey has long been a favourite place for discerning tourists and there are some fantastic long sandy beaches, beautiful undulating cliff paths leading to tiny coves with sparkling rock pools. The cliffs are a riot of colour in spring and early summer with sea pinks, gorse and trefoils. There are forts and castles of some description right the way around the island, mainly dating back to the 1400s-1860s. Huge fort constructions were also created by the Nazis during their occupation of the islands in World War II. North Jersey in particular is firmly established on bird migratory routes.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Fly or ferry to Jersey, then take a taxi direct to your hotel or use the island's reliable bus service. Accommodation: Best Western Royal Hotel. One of the principal hotels in Jersey, the Best Western Royal Hotel is rated as 3* by the AA and is ideally located only a few minutes walk from the pedestrian shopping areas of St. Helier. This traditional 89-bedroom hotel boasts a range of upgrade rooms from executive, balcony or patio access and suites. For the convenience of guests free WiFi is provided throughout the hotel and there is a small car park. With restaurant and bar everything is at hand.

Meals:  Nil

This first day is a walk of two halves, striding out of St.Helier passing marinas and modern coastal developments, you can either walk along the beach at low tide, or follow the coastal promenade passing imposing Elizabeth Fort and past miles of creamy sand to St. Aubin. This was Jersey’s main harbour before St. Helier was developed. After this warm up and maybe some refreshment, leave the seaside to ascend the cliffs to the well preserved Nazi fortifications at Noirmont. There is some nice cliff walking until the enticing St. Brélades Bay which is probably the most popular beach on the island, with its historical church and ‘Fisher’s Chapel’. More cliff tops follow to the extreme south western tip of the island at La Corbiére with its famous lighthouse and views all the way to Newfoundland! Turn the corner and finish at a beach café at the south of St. Ouen’s Bay, once again facing miles of sandy beach like we started the day. The return bus takes approx 45 min (depending on traffic).

Meals:  B

At all but the higher states of tides, you can stay on the beach and walk the first few kilometers across the glorious sandy St.Ouen's Bay. To the west there is nothing but ocean as far as Canada. However, if you are restricted by tide, weather or inclination to the sea wall path, there are some interesting features including a small nature reserve which is the home to a few of Jersey's indigenous species, more defensive towers and a World War II museum in a former Nazi bunker with lots of interesting artifacts. The landscape changes when you reach the far end of the bay and you are forced to ascend into the heather and gorse carpeted cliffs. You then pass around a remote headland which has been managed to try to slow and stop the growth of bracken around the island and thus improve the area for nesting birds. The cliff walk takes you round to a Nazi range finding tower and to the remains of Medieval 'Le Chateau de Gros Nez' sitting isolated on a cliff. It then passes the beautiful small beach at 'La Grève de Lanchon' before heading beside coast and fields to finish at the delightful sandy bay at 'La Grève de Lecq.' The return bus takes approx 40 min (depending on traffic).

Meals:  B

The hardest but arguably most beautiful section of the walk. A couple of miles of tarmac walking but nearly all on coastal footpath, which relentlessly undulates around the coves and bays of northern Jersey. The land-seascape views are gorgeous in the right light and views to Guernsey, Herm, Sark, Alderney and the coast of France; tidal reefs and races; old forts and watch towers; heather and gorse, butterflies and birdlife. The walking has a more remote feel than other days, with just the small seaside village of Bonne Nuit and a couple of pubs to gain refreshment. There are interesting geological features including, sea stacs and a collapsed cliff called 'The Devil's Hole'. Hopefully the weather will be at your back! You are never really that close to the cliff edge to feel exposed, although this of course is subjective. There are some rougher sections with a lot of undulations. A tiring but fulfilling day.The return bus takes approx 50 min (depending on traffic).

Meals:  B

Another beautiful day, now rounding the north eastern point of the island, and heading south. From Bouley Bay, the epic cliff walks continue, dropping down to the beautiful and picturesque little village and harbour at Le Rozels. From here there is a bit of quiet road walking inland, until a descent into the bay at Fiquet, passing by a breakwater into St. Catherines Bay. Perhaps it is time for an ice cream and if the tide is low, a re-acquaintance with beach walking, passing some strategic towers, the final part joins the road around headland north of Gorey and to the impressive medieval castle of Mont Orgueil. It is worth spending up to 2 hours ascending and descending the multitude of steps to visit the chambers in this well preserved citadel. Finally drop down to the little fishing and boating village of Gorey below the castle. The return bus takes approx 30 min (depending on traffic).

Meals:  B

At low tide you can walk much of the way from Gorey to St. Helier along most of the beaches. The first section involves an attractive walk observing Mont Orgueil diminishing into the distance across sand, sea and passing an old tower called Fort Henry. There are a few headlands that you can't easily get round as well as rough, weedy and rocky sections of beach and private properties, so in places you will be on the coastal road and pavement. As you go along, the coastline gets more built up. If not walking on the beach there is a couple of miles of walking along seawall and sandy marram grass, but mostly you are on the coast road. Attractions include the long beach at Royal Bay of Grouville, The Harbour at Platte Rocque and the Lido (tidal swimming pool) at Havre de Pas - you might want to bring swimming costumes if it is warm, but check the tide levels (it is totally underwater at high tide). Finally there are the many defensive towers along the way. Return to Liberation Square in central St. Helier to complete your circuit of Jersey.

Meals:  B

The tour finishes after breakfast. Bus or taxi to airport or ferry terminal.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 6 breakfasts
  • 6 nights accommodation normally at a 3 star standard hotel on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities.
  • Digital information pack including route notes & maps
  • Emergency hotline
  • GPX Files

  • Lunch, Dinner and drinks
  • Entrance fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip
  • Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls
  • Bus journeys during the tour
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Guide - this is a self guided holiday

Accommodation


Grading

moderate  

Moderate. This is a self guided walk with average daily stages of around 5-6 hours (not including rests or visits to the castles enroute). There are many ups and downs as you would expect in a coastal region, and walking poles are definitely a good idea, however the paths are fairly well defined. A good level of fitness is required and the trip is considered suitable for experienced walkers. Map reading skills are essential and you may need to use a compass at times in order to check the path. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, and jogging, two to three times a week for at least three months prior to your departure.


Departure dates

Daily

Notes

H
High Season
M
Mid Season
DN1
Mid Season 2024: 1-31 May & 17 Sep - 16 Oct | High Season 2024: 1 Jan, 1 Jun - 16 Sept & 17-31 Dec

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1020USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Mid Season Single Supplement 2025USD$520
  • Mid Season Solo Traveller Supplement 2025USD$560
  • Single Supplement 2025USD$590
  • Solo Traveller Supplement 2025USD$590
  • High Season Surcharge 2025USD$650
  • High Season Surcharge 2025USD$650
*Prices listed are per person

Frequently Asked Questions

It is very hard getting one night stays on Jersey, and no where is too far away from St.Helier, so with a bus service accessing all all the start and finish points of the walks, it does make sense and makes the tour more economical as regards accommodation and without baggage transfers

No, about a third, you will still have the delights of guernsey, Herm, Sark and Alderney

Generally easy to follow, but some are quite rough with many ascents and descents on the way to coves and beaches. We will send you GPX files, to help you find your way of course and you will have maps to use.


Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

Similar trips

Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips