Jersey Holidays

Jersey is one of the most appealing destinations in the British Isles for a relaxing beach holiday. This guest post from a local resident explains why...

The joy of spending a sunny day in Jersey is that, as your mood takes you, your surroundings can change with you. On an island which measures only nine by five miles, you can choose a favourite beach for different times of the day.

Early in the morning, set off for the wonderful Archirondel Bay where you can swim whilst the sun rises in the East and lights up a picture of the French coastline. Look north and view the fishermen setting up their lines for the catch of the day on the dramatic vista of St Catherine's Breakwater. Once you have worked up a morning appetite, visit the Archirondel cafe which offers welcoming service and food. This can be followed by extra large ice-creams at St Catherine's Breakwater; an essential stop for those who appreciate the dairy produce of the world-famous Jersey cow!

With a full stomach, why not move onto the North coast and walk along the cliff path from Rozel to Bouley Bay? In the bracing sea air, relax and enjoy the rugged costal scenery and gaze out into the clear deep blue sea of the Channel. This is a unique chance to truly escape the hustle and stress of modern life and find at least one corner of the British Isles which still offers peace and tranquillity.

As the afternoon moves on, perhaps head west to St Ouen's Bay. Exposed to the elements, this is the beach for adventure sports. Join the locals as they ride the waves from across the Atlantic, but beware for the tides and currents are strong and care must be taken at all times to keep within the lifeguard zones. Stay on firmer ground and enjoy a beachball game; this is such a large beach that it never feels overcrowded. If you are there when the tide is high watch as the waves crash over the sea walls, with the watchful eye of Corbiere lighthouse in the distance.

As the sun sets, and your day comes to an end, head to the ever popular St Brelade's Bay. Whether you want to relax and enjoy a pizza with the children or indulge your fine dinning appetite, this beach offers it all. The views at sunset are spectacular and with the charming Parish Church and medieval Fisherman's Chapel only a short walk away you can go and explore them to complete your final adventure of the day. As the sun sets over the Corbiere peninsula, you can look forward to another perfect Jersey day.

1. St Ouen's. This magnificent bay takes up nearly the entire west coast of the Island. It is a majestic sweep of sand with numerous beach cafes and the opportunity to surf where lifeguards are present. On a hot summer's day, it compares favourably with the great beaches of western Australia. Driving up and down the Five Mile Road which frames the bay is a quintessential Jersey experience. Legend has it that the lost Manor of La Brecquette, swept away by storms in medieval times, lies drowned beneath the sea just off St Ouen's Bay.

2. St Brelade's. This cosy sweep of sand is the hub of many a Jersey holiday. Boasting numerous hotels and restaurants, this south-facing beach offers golden acres which merge with nearby Ouaisne at low tide. The parish church of St Brelade's is a famous Jersey wedding venue with stunning views of the beach. Also overlooking the bay is arguably the most perfectly located Pizza Express restaurant in the British Isles. Make sure you follow the trail past the Fisherman's Chapel and discover the stunning and pristine little enclave of Beauport Bay.

3. St. Aubin's. This vast, curvaceous bay is framed by lights and was likened by Queen Victoria to the Bay of Naples. It affords panoramic vistas of St Helier and contains two splendid historical forts which can only be reached at low tide - Elizabeth Castle and St. Aubin's Fort. The historic fishing port of St Aubin itself is one of the most charming on the Island and rivals Guernsey's St Peter Port for its natural setting.

4. Archirondel. Famous for its stunning and stark Red Tower, this is one of the most evocative and beautiful Jersey beaches.On the secluded east coast of the Island, it offers extensive views of the Cotentin peninsula in France on the horizon, with St Catherine's breakwater to the north and Gorey Castle to the south.

5. Rozel Bay is one of the most precious, unspoilt and charming fishing villages on the Island. Magnificent steep green fields cascade down into a perfect little harbour. Eat at "The Hungry Man" and enjoy the restful ambience of one of the most lovely sites in Jersey.

6. Plemont Bay. On the rugged and steep cliffs of the north coast you will find this gem of a beach. Descend the vertiginous cliff path to sample the golden sands (which are completely covered at high tide) then enjoy an ice cream at the perfectly positioned cliff top cafe. Across the water are often spectacular views of Sark, Herm and Guernsey - perhaps even Alderney on a clear day. Nearby lies Grosnez Castle, a long abandoned medieval monument. It is a classic romantic destination at sunset as the sun sets over the western ocean.

7. Portelet Bay. A pristine and secluded cove, this bay features the tidal island of Ile au Guerdain on which the monument known as Janvrin's Tomb is constructed. The islet is reached by a sandy causeway at low tide, but take care not to be stranded there as the tide comes in! Care should be taken on all Jersey beaches as the tide can advance very quickly, in some cases faster than a man can run. The Channel Islands are famous for having one of the largest and most impressive tidal ranges in the world - yet another feature that marks them out as a truly unique holiday destination.

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