My adopted parish ... St Brelade
Welcome to my Parish of St Brelade.
Please take an E-walk (electronic walk) with
me around the twelve miles of the most beautiful
and interesting coastline and countryside.
(My wife said that I will not have much exercise walking this way )
Legend has it that St Brelade prayed for land whilst searching
for the Islands of the Blest. An island arose from the sea on
which he celebrated Easter. As he departed so did the island.
It was an enormous fish sent in answer to his prayers.
Reg Langlois - email reg@reg-garden.com
La Corbiere Lighthouse

I took the photograph above when I was accompanying the BBC film crew in 2003 as the parish's floral
coordinator. They were at La Corbiere in Jersey filming an episode for the BBC's 'Gardeners World'
programme and the film was shown at the Guild Hall in London in front of our hosts, the Britain in Bloom
national floral competition, organised by the Royal Horticultural Society. Max de la Haye, the constable
of the parish, and I collected the Bronze award for our class, 'Small Coastal Resort', from BBC's
Gardeners World Monty Don.
|
I have enjoyed taking these photographs, please enlarge them by clicking on them.
Take a walk clockwise around the coastline and inland of the Parish of St Brelade
Sunrise
Starting at La Haule
La Haule is situated in a sheltered bowl. Looking inland, you can see magnificent residential
homes through the trees. Looking towards the sea when the tide is out, the golden beach with
dozens of sunbathers reaches right down to St Aubin's Fort. When the tide is up, La Haule Bay,
because it is so sheltered, is like a mirror and is transformed into a recreational area. Speed boats
and ski boats are launched, water skiers prepare themselves and the whole area becomes alive.
Boats must be kept at a safe distance from the beach at all times.
Sit on the sea wall and be amused by the activities. Look out to sea where, on the horizon,
there are dozens of fine motor cruisers, sailing yachts and water skiers.
The start of our walk at La Haule is along the newly-laid brick-paved promenade
There are a few guesthouses of excellent quality, whose owners will have spent a lot of time
and money making their property very attractive. Their gardens will be covered with hanging flower
baskets and boxes. Much credit must be given to these people as they give a great deal
of pleasure to the many who pass by.
St Aubin
St Aubin hosts a string of smart bistros, restaurants, pubs, cafes and kiosks.
To be continued
St Aubin's Bay
St Aubin's Bay covers the central part of Jersey's south coast and has a long, unbroken sweep of sandy
beach stretching from St Helier's Harbour to St Aubin's Harbour. Only the highest of tides covers all its soft
and golden sand and, at low tide, the sea retreats several hundred yards to open up an enormous expanse
of beach. South facing, it is in full sun along virtually its entire length from sunrise to sunset. The bay
is very sheltered from prevailing westerly and easterly winds. Although the last few hundred metres
of sand between La Haule and St Aubin's Harbour are permanently wet, the remainder of
the beach dries out rapidly. Bathing is safe at all states of the tide but care is needed when it is
high and reaches the sea wall. The beach slopes very gently and rough conditions are rare during the season.
The Bay is popular with local windsurfers and hobie cats.
Water skiing and jet skis are available from La Haule, as are wakeboards, banana rides and beach volley ball.
These are also popular at Beaumont. Although close to a densely populated area, the beach is so long that it
rarely becomes crowded, except close to the main car parks in high season when a short stroll will
lead to an uncrowded stretch of sand.
St Aubin's Fort
Trains
Steam train
Road train
Le Petit Train
Le Petit Train from St. Helier to St. Aubin during the Summer months and is
powered with a petrol engine that pulls four carriages along the promenade
around St Aubin's Bay. It is very popular with both visitors and residents of the Island.
Reclaimed Land
All of St Aubin's harbour and most of the village has been reclaimed from the sea, from what is
now the Royal Channel Islands Yacht Club at the south west corner of the harbour right through
to the top of the slipway at La Haule. Without reclamation there would not be anything along that
stretch except a sandy beach such as there is along the coast between La Haule and Beaumont.
Walking
Walking has become one of the most popular means of recreation in recent years.
St. Brelade offers walkers many miles of safe, scenic pathways, both along the coast and inland.
Many of the pathways around our coast are maintained by hard working inmates of our local prison
and Public Services. They keep them clean and clear of over growing vegetation. Due to the warmer
climate in Jersey, this is year round work.
To be continued................
Railway Walk/Corbiere Walk.
This walk will take you through the heart of our parish. Starting at St Aubin, it
leads you through a pretty valley with small houses and cottages, many adorned
with climbing plants and hanging flower baskets. You will pass beneath small granite bridges
and wonder at the variety of flora and fauna along the walk, noticing how
the plants change from the shaded area, where they are tall and broad leafed, to the small, thin
leafed plants found in the dryer, sandy soil as you continue towards Corbiere.
This walk is excellent for wheel chair users.
Running alongside the sea wall at La Haule is a cycle lane, wide enough for cyclists and walkers
Whether you are a keen cyclist or just prefer to see, hear and smell the environment around you in a way
that only pedal power can offer, Jersey is an island made for cycling. There are hundreds of places to visit
in St Brelade, whether along the coast or inland and, although you may find it extremely hilly, you
will be rewarded with beautiful views that you may never have seen before. Set out from the the
Parish Hall at St Aubin, with its 18th century harbour, the fine merchants' houses along the Bulwarks and
the Old Court House, where privateers shared out the spoils from
plundered French shipping.
Proceed from the Parish Hall up the Corbiere Walk, until you reach the point
where the walk
passes above a lane (past a small farm on the right). Wheel your bike down the steps onto the lane and,
leaving the farm to your right, turn left at the top of the lane and ride up the hill. Notice the unusual
direction stone on the corner. At the next T-junction, turn left and immediately right into
Rue des Fosses a Mortier, then turn right by the farm walk. Take the first left, Rue des Landes,
sign-posted to St Peter . Cross the main road by the Rugby Club, and into the road
marked 'No Through Road' which leads to a track passing behind the Airport runway. Jersey Airport is
one of the busiest in the world.
This is a bit of advice that I would like to pass onto you when you are cycling:
Stop at yellow lines Do not ride on pavements Do not ride bicycles off road or on any of the cliff paths
Do not disobey One way, Keep left, No entry and other road signs Children must wear a
helmet and adults are advised to wear one Remember, you need lights to ride at night it is
the Law. When approaching a pedestrian, use your bell to warn of your approach particularly if the
pedestrian is elderly and may not hear you coming Keep to speed limits, particularly on cycle
tracks which are used by walkers Ensure that you and your child can be seen by other road
users, particularly at night Do not cycle on the beach, particularly if you have hired a bike.
The sea and sand can damage your bicycle and you will lose your deposit if you do nor comply.
Always lock your bike (or lose it!) Where possible use cycle parking If you have a mechanical
problem, pull clear of the traffic before attending to it When overtaking another cyclist always
ring your bell, check behind you and signal Always signal your intentions well in advance of turning,
overtaking, slowing down or stopping
Green Lanes.
15MPH. Can you imagine being able to walk, cycle and drive around our
beautiful parish lanes at such a low speed? Some of our roads have been designated
as 'Green Lanes'. The charm and historical interest of many of the Islands minor roads is derived
from their ancient origin. We know from early records that all roads above four feet in width were
under Royal supervision and that Jersey had adopted the Norman custom of classifying roads
by width so that we find them variously called via regia, cheminium regis, semita regis, in other
words ranging from the Kings Highway to the path or sentier. There were also certain rights
of way, sometimes across fields such as the Chemin du Moulin and the Chemin des Morts (used for
carrying a coffin from a house to a church).
To protect these quiet country lanes, Jersey has introduced a network of
over 45 miles of Green Lanes.
These quiet country lanes have a speed limit of 15 mph and give priority to walkers, cyclists and
horse riders. Green Lanes exist in all but two of Jerseys twelve parishes and can be identified by
a distinctive Green Lane road sign.
|
St Aubin's Harbour
Belcroute Bay
From St. Aubin, climb the hill by way of the Grande Route de St. Brelade until the left hand turn to La Route de Noirmont. Follow this road for about a mile until you come to another left hand turn to Le Chemin de Belcroute which is a very winding road that takes you down to the bay itself. There is parking for a small number of cars close to the slip, but turning room is restricted. Belcroute Bay is fine for fishing. It is West of St. Aubins harbour and it lies in the pretty bay of Belcroute where there is a small slipway giving on to clean sand, but to the right of the beach the shoreline becomes rocky and extends right around to Noirmont Point. At low water it is possible to fish this area on a mobile basis, but great care must be taken to avoid being cut off by the incoming tide as the cliffs above are a dangerous climb. Spinning with plugs and artificial lures is very successful here, with clear water conditions at first and last light the best times to try.
Species
of fish. Pollack, and several other species, particularly at night. These rocks will become cut off by the high tide, so a close watch is needed to guarantee a safe exit. There are many species of fish. Bass are the main target for those fishing the rocks to the right of the beach. From the slip itself and the rocks to the left, a number of species follow the tide on its way to St. Aubins bay including Sole, Bass, Mullet, and Dogfish. Fishing tackle Standard spinning rods and reels should be used to cast shallow diving lures from the rocks where fish will be feeding in the gullies. Surface poppers work well in settled conditions, and can often induce vicious takes from hungry Bass, as well as Pollack and Mackerel.
and can produce great sport on light tackle. Worm baits, and frozen sand-eel, work well from the rocks to the left of the slip for several species. Good luck fishing!
Noirmont Point To go there from St. Aubin take the A13 towards St. Brelade. Look for a left hand turn, the B57, at the top of the hill above St. Aubin, which is the Route De Noirmont and will lead right to the headland itself. Parking is in the car park on top of the promontory, and this also provides an excellent picnic spot for any non- anglers. There is a track that leads down to the lighthouse, which although quite steep, is relatively safe. The rocky platform of the light is best for bottom fishing, with the rocks and gullies either side of the mark suitable for float fishing and spinning. The stunning views ensure it is a favourite for locals, walkers, historians and twitchers alike. This massive headland dominates the western end of St. Aubins Bay and is guarded by a lighthouse below to warn shipping of the dangers that lurk there. The powerful tidal flow passes very close to the outcrop of rock at the foot of the mark and allows the angler to place his bait in a prolific feeding area that is frequented by many species. The mark is fished two hours either side of low water to allow one to reach the outer platform and return before the tide cuts it off from the shore. The rock that provides a base for the light also provides an excellent fishing platform for the angler who can either bottom fish, or cast plugs into the turbulent flow. From the headland above the climb down to the mark looks quite daunting, but in truth it is easily attainable by anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. The area is subject to occasional rogue swells, and the angler should remain alert at all times to the prevailing conditions and the sea state.
but access and egress can be tricky. Fishing from low tide up can be tremendous with very large Bass always on the cards, but particular attention should be paid to the incoming tide to avoid being cut off.
that feed on the bait that gathers there to shelter. Bass, Pollack, Mackerel, Garfish, Bream, and Conger canal be targeted with confidence, and Wrasse and Mullet are also on the cards in the gullies. Fish bait Fish baits such as Mackerel, Pouting, and Sand-eel will catch most species, with worm and green shore Crab best for the Wrasse. Float-fished fish strip will account for Gars and Mackerel, especially when combined with minced fish ground bait introduced regularly. Mullet will also be attracted to this shirvy, as it is locally known, and can be caught on bread flake or Mackerel strip. Two and three hook paternostered squid strip is the best option for Bream that can run to well over three pounds. Bass and Pollack will take medium to heavy lures and spinners cast into the flow, with plugs and Yans of around 150 grammes working
well. War Memorial Located on the headland next to Portelet Bay, Noirmont has been bought by the States of Jersey as a permanent war memorial. It is easy to see the strategic importance of this headland to the occupying forces, and it is due to the Channel Islands Occupation Society which has maintained the bunkers and emplacements since 1977 that this part of the Islands modern history is well preserved and open to the public.
Command Bunkers
Portelet Bay There's quite a climb down steps from the cliff top to Portelet beach, which helps prevent this very attractive and popular south coast location becoming too crowded. South facing, the beach is very sunny and sheltered by the cliff behind. It has soft, golden sand. Well worth the walk down the long flight of steps and the walk back up at the end of the day. Very safe bathing. Don't get caught on the Ile au Guerdain in the centre as the incoming tide surrounds it, unless you are confident of being able to swim ashore. The tower on the islet is known as Janvrin's Tomb.
Janvrins Tomb Portelet Common Portelet Common presents a mix of dramatic sea views and a habitat typical of an area subjected to the prevailing southwesterly wind. The common has been managed for nature conservation since the 1980s and is a proposed Site of Special Interest. The habitat is a mixture of thick gorse cover, dwarf shrub heathland and lichen-rich grassland. The Common lies 54-61m above sea level and covers an area of some 31 hectares. On the reserves northern edge there is a panoramic view over-looking another reserve, LOuaisné Common, where the habitat is quite different to that of Portelets elevated plateau. Portelet Common .....The Human HistoryThere is an internationally important archaeological site situated below the slopes on the north facing side of the Common. La Cotte de St Brelade is one of the major middle Palaeolithic sites in Europe. Finds from the site confirm that man has been present here for many thousands of years. The remains of Neanderthal man, Woolly Mammoth and Rhinoceros have been uncovered by archeologists over the years. Such is the importance of the site that public access is not permitted. Portelet Common has been tenanted land for hundred of years. The tenants grazed their sheep, cattle, goats and horses here until the 20th century. This traditional form of land management has played a major role in forming the habitat we see today. The tenants no longer exercise their right to graze the Common, subsequently, management is essential in order to control evasive species such as Bracken, Bramble, Holm Oak and Birch. Granite quarrying prior to the First World war has contributed to the present shape of the reserve and work carried out by German forces during the occupation, when constructing fortifications, also had considerable impact on the area. Portelet Common .... FloraPortelet Common supports some 125 plant species and at least 30 of these have restricted distribution either in the British Isles or on Jersey. The dwarf-shrub heath and heath-litchen grassland areas are particularly rich in plant species. There are four species listed in the British Red Data book, three of which are found in these habitats - Dwarf Rush, sand Crocus and Early Sand Grass. Other species of note include Green-winged Orchid, Heath Pearl wort, All-seed, Autumn Squill and the Jersey sub-species of spotted Rockrose. Such plants are just part of the wildness of this very special place. Portelet Common ..... FaunaAround the perimeter of the common the cliffs provide ideal nesting and roosting sites for a number of sea birds and waders. Among the most common are the gulls. Three species breed regularly, Greater and Lesser Black-backed Gulls and the herring Gull. Amongst the crevices and ledges of the lower cliff faces, Shags, Oystercatchers and the Rock Pipits can be seen most times of the year. Ravens will often appear on the thermals in early summer. On the plateau, the thick areas of gorse provide an ideal habitat for Dartford Warbler, Linnets and the occasional Stonechat. Up draughts of air from the cliffs also encourage the Kestrel to hunt the steep slopes and heath for a variety of small mammals and insects.
Nature Reserve La Cotte de St Brelade Ouaisne Bay Ouaisne adjoins St Brelade's Bay and is connected at low tide. Access is only from the eastern end where the car park is situated or from St Brelade's Bay . The beach faces south-west and is sunny and sheltered. Some patches of lovely sand, but much remains rather wet after the tide has receded. Very safe bathing at all states of the tide.
Ouaisne Common LOuaisné Common is one of Jerseys richest and most diverse nature reserves, the area was once a dune system but, since the construction of a defensive sea wall during World War II, the dunes have stabilised and are gradually progressing to heathland. The area contains large blocks of Gorse, dwarf shrub heath, open sand, grassland and wetland. The reserve boundary features mature Willow Carr in several areas and there is a large pond and reed bed on the eastern edge of the site. To the west the site is bounded by a sea-defense wall built in World War II.
Ouaisne Common ....... The Human HistoryA little south of the Common is La Cotte; a cave formed when the sea level was some 18m higher than it is today. Excavations here have produced traces of human occupation dating back 80,000 years. Over many centuries the tenants of the Common held the right to graze cattle, cut Gorse, for fuel and fodder and Bracken for bedding fuel and thatching. The rights of the tenants of LOuaisné Common were published as late as 1889. Today the management of the Common helps provide a balance between the rich diversity of flora and fauna that exists here and the more gentle recreational activities pursued by the community. Ouaisne Common ...... FloraA total of 163 plant species have been recorded on the Common and this may be attributed to the diversity of habitats. Included are at least 5 species listed in the British Red Data Book. Compared to nature reserves of similar size in Jersey, its species is unparalleled. Rarities include; Marsh St Johns-wort, Lesser Skullcap, Cross-Leaved Heath and Greater Spearwort. Ouaisne Common ...... FaunaAmong the Gorse thickets and Willow at the heart of the Common are freshwater slacks that provide the Islands last remaining natural breeding site for the Agile Frog Rana dalmatina. Captive breeding takes place at a number of compounds around the Island for later reintroduction to other potential sites. The Gorse provides ideal habitat for Dartford Warbler, Meadow Pipit, Linnet and Stonechat. Birds of Prey include Kestrel, Sparrow hawk and occasionally, Peregrine Falcon. Reptiles include the Slow Worm, Green Lizard and Grass Snake and, although the Rabbit is the dominant wild mammal, Lesser White-toothed Shrew, Common Shrew, Bank Vole and Wood Mouse are also present.
Martello Tower
St Brelade's Bay This is Jersey's busiest resort beach. But thankfully it never becomes quite as crowded as those other places and it's much more beautiful, with its tiny jetty and seaside parish church at the western end. South facing, the beach enjoys a long day when the sun shines, although the western end becomes shaded in late afternoon. The bay is very sheltered from everything but onshore breezes. There is soft, golden sand along the entire length of the beach. Very safe bathing at all states of the tide. It is a fun beach everything from beach volleyball and trampolines to pedalos and other water-borne craft. There are many cafes of varying sizes at several locations along the beach, as well as beach kiosks, restaurants, bars, shops and other facilities Sir Winston Churchill Park You
will see why we are proud of our beautifully kept parks, especially the public Winston Churchill Memorial Park from where you can view the whole
of the well known St Brelade's Bay.
St Brelade Parish Church As it appeared before the restoration in 1903 I did not take the pictures of the church above
Fisherman's Chapel Bouilly Port Beauport Beauport is one of Jersey's most delightful beaches. A veritable sun trap on the south coast it could easily become overcrowded but the long trek down a fairly steep path from the car park at the top of the bay helps keep it from becoming too busy. South facing and surrounded on three sides by the cliff, the beach is sheltered from all but winds from due south. The beach loses the sun in the late afternoon. Soft, golden sand after the initial pebbles makes Beauport ideal for families. Safe bathing at all states of the tide. At high tide the beach slopes fairly rapidly. The steep climb down to the beach, followed by the inevitable climb back at the end of the day deters sufficient people to keep the beach from becoming overcrowded.
Beauport Battery 1817 Beau Port Cromlech Les Creux Les Creux Country Park Officially opened in December 2000 the park gives visitors the opportunity to experience a special part of Jerseys heritage. A smooth gravel path takes you from the hustle and bustle of the main road on La Route Orange to the quiet of Les Creux Country Park. Stairs lead down to a wooden bridge, then the path snakes up to Les Creux bowling green and its imaginative public car park. Visitors to the park now have two pathway options to choose from as they cross over the headland in the direction of Beauport. One pathway takes you through strawberry fields towards Mont Es Croix. It runs along working farmland and at one-point splits a ploughed field, the rich earth starkly contrasting with the bright graveled path. Woodland will eventually grow in this corner of the park. The second path leads towards a wetland area, over which another wooden boardwalk has been built to ensure dry feet. The two paths then combine and reach Route Des Champs. Over the road the visitor has a network of paths to choose from head east towards St Brelades Bay, south down to Beauport or west along to La Grosse Tête and La Lande Du Ouest. The coastal paths all connect with existing routes leading out of the park. Many paths have been improved in the area and Beauports car park has received a healthy face-lift, complete with benches. The distinctive dry granite walls have been restored and impressive standing stones confidently point the way. A green lizard, the
parks emblem, has been carved into many of the stones.
Fiquet Bay La Moye La Moye Point La Moye Golf Club La Rosiere
Cobiere Point The coast of Jerseys south-western corner is rather rugged and can be extremely dangerous for shipping although it wasnt until 1874 that La Corbière lighthouse, a quarter of a mile off shore from La Corbière point, was first lit. The lighthouse was the first lighthouse in the British Isles to build in concrete and its light is visible for eighteen miles in clear weather. The lighthouse is connected to the shore by a causeway that is covered at high tide. The rush of the tide around this part of the coast can be very dangerous although despite this, it is a beautiful place whether in broad daylight or at sunset and from there you can look across at the long expanse of beach at St Ouen's Bay. The light is no longer manned except for maintenance. It has been changed over to be fully automatic This area is rocky and can be rather treacherous with its strong swell. Not suitable for bathing. Probably one of the most photographed spots on the whole of the island, the lighthouse at
Corbiere stands guard over the western approaches to Jersey and warns shipping of the dangers
of the Jailers reef that lies in wait for the unwary. Located at the southern end of St. Ouens Bay,
the point is subject to fierce tidal runs and large swells and the rock that forms a platform for the
light is cut off at high tide. Either side of low water however, the area is fishable with a large
degree of caution, but can at times produce some wonderful sport and be well worth the effort
needed to access the mark. Although other species including Conger and Wrasse can be
caught here, the whole area screams Bass, with most anglers choosing to fish a variety of lures
in the boils and turbulent gullies that surround the light, and the rocks on either side. There is a
slipway out to the lighthouse that is very popular with tourists, who are warned of the incoming
tide by a siren sounded some time before the area gets cut off. The Atlantic swells that sweep
across the bay can be huge, but the most dangerous are the rogue swells that can appear in calm
conditions and sweep over the area. Although the actual rock platform itself fishes well, anglers
are probably safer fishing the ground located either side of the start of the slip, which is more
easily accessible, and can be vacated quickly if conditions take a turn for the worse.
Conger and Huss are present in numbers over the rough ground, although very strong tackle is
required to stand any chance of landing them. Bass and Pollack provide the main target species,
and can be caught on a variety of lures. Specimen sized Wrasse can be taken from the gutters and
gullies in the area when they become fishable in settled conditions. Standard plugging rods and
fixed spool reels loaded with ten pound mono, or braid with a mono leader, are best for spinning
and float fishing. Heavy beach casters required for bottom fishing in the rough ground.
La Cobiere Walk Petit Port La Pulente La Braye Dunes The sand dune system at the southern end of St Ouens Bay, is known as Les Blanches Banques and is recognised as a Site of Special Interest. More than 400 plant species have been identified here. Millions of crushed seashells helped to form these dunes making this a calcium-rich environment, ideal for a number of specialised plants. Marram grass is abundant and helps bind and build the dunes. Burnet rose is a familiar sight, providing a surface fabric, which tends to hold the dunes together. The dunes also provide an ideal habitat for the green lizard. The leeward side of the dunes provide protection for plants. The dwarf pansy can be found here and the lizard orchid presents a stunning contrast to the tiny ground-hugging species. The miniature marvels of the dunes, the lichens, mosses and tiny flowering plants are often best appreciated on hands and knees with a magnifying glass.
Les Mielles This area of coastal plain inland from St Ouens Bay stretches the full length of Jerseys western seaboard from La Pulente in the south to LEtacq in the north. The natural history of Les Mielles occupies a number of different habitats. Flat, marshy land and thick reed beds surround St Ouens pond, Jerseys largest area of natural fresh water. Bird life is plentiful here all year round and just to its north, a small wet meadow is a haven for five species of orchid and their hybrids. Bird hides, interpretation centres at Frances Le Sueur Centre and Kempt Tower as well as dedicated country rangers all ensure that this national park is protected and enjoyed to the full.
La Rocco Tower Les Landes Coastal heathland is the most distinctive and spectacular aspects of Jerseys wild environment. Developing largely on exposed cliff tops, heathland stretches for almost the entire length of Jerseys northwest and southwest coastline. Located on the northwest coast, Les Landes is Jerseys largest single expanse of maritime heathland. It covers an area of 160 hectares and is bound to seaward by 3km of rugged granite cliffs. The reserve contains a variety of habitats supporting rarities such as the Dartford Warbler and the plant life features Cross-leaved Heath, Spotted Cats Ear and many other rare species. The reserve was designated a Site of Special Interest (SSI) in 1996. Les Landes .....The Human HistoryThere is evidence that man has used Les Landes for at least 5,500 years. La Cotte de la Chevre in the east, is one of the few remaining middle Palaeolithic occupation sites in northwest Europe. Le Pinnacle, an impressive geological feature was occupied during the Neolithic period, the Bronze Age and by the Romans. Grosnez Castle, constructed in the 14th century, was designed as a medieval refuge during sea raids. Gun emplacements, bunkers and observation towers were constructed as part of Hitlers Fortress Europe (1940-1945). Grazing areas for sheep and cattle and the collection of Gorse and Bracken by the local community for fuel and bedding has helped shape the habitats we see here today. Les Landes ......FloraDominant plants include Common Gorse, low-lying Western Gorse, Heather and Bell Heather. In addition, the reserve supports over 200 species of heathland plants, several of which are considered rare in Britain. The Gorse is controlled to prevent it dominating the thick carpet of heather and gaps between the patches of Gorse provide niches in which other plants can thrive. The Heather is in full bloom at Les Landes during July and August. The rich purple hues of millions of tiny flowers are in rich contrast to the bright yellow blossoms of western Gorse. Les Landes ...... FaunaThe wetland area at Le Canné de Squez attracts a variety of dragonfly species and is an important breeding site for the Common Toad (please do not disturb this area). Look out for Green Hairstreak butterflies in sheltered areas and from the cliff path a variety of seabirds can be seen at all time of the year including the occasional Gannet from the Garden Rocks colony off Alderney. The Gorse provides cover and nest sites for Dartford Warbler, Linnet and Stonechat. Kestrel, Raven and Peregrine Falcons are recorded here regularly too.
La Lande du OuestLa Lande du Ouest is an integral part of the dry coastal heathland lying above the cliffs along the greater part of the southwest coast of Jersey. It was designated a Site of Special Interest in 1996 and the rich flora and fauna is considered an important contribution to the islands landscape and biodiversity. The heathland has developed over millennia and mans interaction with it, by using it as a rich source of food, fuel, bedding and cattle grazing, has shaped the landscape we see today. La Lande du Ouest .... The Human HistoryThere is evidence of early human occupation of La Lande du Ouest. A flint scatter site, where stone tools were made, has been here dating back to the Mesolithic period (c.7000 BC). There is also what is believed to be an early Bronze Age burial site, the remains of which can still be seen at La Tables des Marthes. In the 19th Century the area was a major source of granite and the remains of the quarry workings and its magazines can still be seen. There are also the remains of old quarry cottages, a stone crusher and loading piers. The quarry, where the Desalination Plant now stands once supplied high quality pink granite for the Thames Embankment in London. During the 20th Century, a number of German fortifications were constructed on the reserve including two large bunkers by La Corbiere lighthouse car park. These are occasionally opened to the public. A large signal tower overlooking La Corbiere now houses Jersey's maritime radio station. La Lande du Ouest ....... Flora116 plant species have been identified showing the rich diversity of flora on the reserve, Many of the plants are extremely rare on the British mainland and although less so in Western Europe, some species are at the edge of their northernmost range in Jersey. In early summer the cliffs are dusted with Ox-eye Daisy, Thrift and Sea Campion cling to rocky outcrops and the deep yellow flowers of Prostrate Broom contrast sharply with the surrounding green-grey foliage. Among the rarer plants such as Autumn Squill, Dwarf Rush, Sand Crocus and Yellow-horned Poppy, Look out for Spotted Rockrose too. This delicate, low-growing flower blooms in the morning and casts its petals by noon. The heath also supports a variety of lower plants including mosses, lichens and liverworts. La Lande du Ouest .... FaunaA number of small mammal species throve on the heathland including Rabbits, Mice, Shrews and Voles. Green Lizards can also be found beside the footpath basking in the sun. For the bird watcher; Dartford Warbler, Stonechat, Meadow Pipit, Linnet, Raven and Kestrel are recorded regularly in the reserve. There is also constant activity out to sea, Shag, Cormorant, a variety of gull species and occasionally Fulmars and Terns can be seen from the footpaths.
St Ouen
Most Jersey residents and many visitors consider St.Ouens beach the best of its kind. Miles of beautiful sandy beach, washed twice daily by the waves rolling in from the Atlantic Ocean stretch for five miles from end to end. This is a paradise for surfers, but with room and facilities for everyone. The beach is exposed to the Atlantic along its entire length and the surf can be magnificent - which is fine for those who are experienced, but poor swimmers should take care. Even the most accomplished can be swept off their feet by the currents, so obey the warning signs and flags, take careful note of which sections of beach are restricted. Surfing to match anything in the world, windsurfing, sand yachting, kite flying and motor racing several times during the summer. This is the action beach. There is a large cafe at Le Braye, several restaurants and pubs in various locations, ice cream vans in season at the most popular spots and other beach kiosks. Often the island's busiest beach, but it rarely shows because there is so much room and such extensive car parking. Popular with surfers and wind-surfers, this five mile long Atlantic facing beach is a genuine enigma in that it is fished so rarely by local anglers. The golden sands of the strand lead on to rock gullies and reef formations that teem with bait of all sorts and divers report regular sightings of large shoals of Sole, Plaice, Mullet, and Bass close to shore. Low water fishermen enjoy tremendous catches of Lobster and Crab, and yet despite the overwhelming evidence in its favour, the beach is subject to virtually no angling pressure. Visiting anglers well versed in the techniques suitable to this type of mark would surely enjoy consistent catches of many species, as well as having an un-tapped area for bait gathering. At the northern end of the bay is the LEtacq reef and headland that is popular with Bass fishermen who spin and plug from the slip and in the gullies close to shore, and at the southern end the Rocco Tower is a Napoleonic structure that is accessible at low water and can be fished through the night in safety. In short, the beach presents a wonderful opportunity to anglers who are prepared to experiment with various tactics at different stages of the tide, particularly at night. Wading is generally quite safe, but there are areas that are subject to undertow and cross currents, and fishing alone is therefore not to be recommended. Fishing at high tide from the sea wall often produces very large Bass, but the wall is subject to swells breaching over its length in very rough weather. The bay is a nursery area for many species and therefore is subject to the attention of predators such as Bass and Pollack which take advantage of the massive levels of natural bait present. Flatfish of several types also feed well on the vast beds of Lugworm found throughout the whole length of the beach. Spear-fishermen regularly report sightings of shoals of very large Thin-Lipped Mullet, but as yet none have fallen to rod anglers in any numbers.
St Aubin
|
|
St Aubin became the main town in Jersey from around 1680, because it was the principal port in the island. Larger ships could now stay here instead of St. Malo.
|