Walking in Jersey

Jersey is renowned for its beautiful coastline and countryside and what better way to explore it than by walking.

Country Lanes

It may surprise many that there the island has 45 miles of coastline and with clear water and dramatic cliffs, this must be the island's greatest treasure. However there is also a network of Green Lanes winding through ten parishes where pedestrians and cyclists have priority over cars (max speed limit is 15mph). Many Green and water lanes date back hundreds of years and are home to many varieties of rare wild flowers, including orchids

Follow the walks featured in the walking guide along the country lanes with farmhouses scattered here and there and high Bank hedges; it feels a completely different world. Hedges are cut back in early summer but before then are awash with the colour of wild flowers. You may also see red squirrels during your walk.

Cliff Walks

Devil's Hole

With sweeping bays in the south, by contrast the north coast has some of the most dramatic cliffs in the world and most are accessible to the public. They are recognised as sites of Special Scientific interest as well as being an important bird area by the RSPB. With 100 metre high cliffs and away from the hustle and bustle of life, you can enjoy the sound of the birds and waves crashing on the rocks.

Whatever the season, Jersey's cliffs are a pleasure to walk along, with the mass of spring flowers, the yellow gorse and pride sunshine and blue sea in the summer, the gold of Autumn and the crisp breezes of winter.  

The cliffs in Spring time are especially beautiful. The yellow gorse combine with mass of white hawthorn flowers. You will also find bluebells, which although normally as woodland flower, seem to thrive on the cliffs. Wild garlic, celandines, sand crocus and forget-me-nots add to the colourful scenes.

Ensure you have a good pair of walking shoes and take it in easy stages especially if you are not as fit as you should be. You will however find many delightful cafes along the way to provide refreshment. There are also free guided walks organised by the Environmental Services Unit which are worth taking advantage of. These occur twice a week between May and September. They are informative and are at a comfortable pace.