Jersey Gems

THE ISLAND might have been made for walkers. It’s ideal for slow strolls across the sands, energetic cliff-top hikes and rambles on woodland trails.

Jersey Tourism has been organising Spring and Autumn Walking Weeks (May and September) for the past ten years, with all walks featured in the official programme free of charge. Some routes allow access to private land and spectacular vistas that can’t be seen from cars.

The Around Island walk is done over five days and covers the entire 43-mile coastline.

Island eating 

MUCH of Jersey’s food produce is world-renowned. Jersey Royal potatoes are first harvested in early April. Jersey cows are the source of quality dairy products and fine beef. Also on the menu are Jersey Jewel tomatoes, Jersey black butter and excellent seafood. For the best of what Jersey has to offer, look for the Genuine Jersey mark – the guarantee of local provenance.
Produce carrying this distinctive mark has been reared, grown and caught in Jersey, or created by local businesses.

Island wildlife

FOUNDED by writer and naturalist Gerald Durrell, the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust provides a 32-acre sanctuary to more than 130 endangered species – more than 1,400 mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Conservationists work closely with the animals to better understand what is required to ensure they survive in their natural habitats, and the information is shared with colleagues working on wild animal projects worldwide. The park is open year-round.

Island festivals

Jersey Food Festival, May 18-26: Culinary delights from Michelin-starred dishes to Genuine Jersey produce. Packed full of foodie activities from foraging walks and chocolate tastings to cooking demonstrations and produce tours.

June in Bloom Floral Festival, June 16-23:

Long sunshine hours, rich fertile soil and the temperate climate contribute to produce Jersey’s abundance of bright and fragrant flowers, from the beautiful lavender fields to the most delicate blossoming orchids. Floral activities range from guided walks to horticultural talks.

Jersey Seaside Festival, August 4:

The festival makes the most of Jersey’s beautiful coastlines with a day of traditional games at Havre des Pas. Live entertainment, music, local art and crafts and al fresco dining.
Beach Polo, September 20: Four teams will compete on the sandy sweep of St Brelade’s Bay.

Tennerfest, October 1-November 12:

The ultimate festival for foodies on a budget, Tennerfest celebrates the gastronomic delights available across The Channel Islands. More than 170 restaurants on Jersey and Guernsey will be offering meals for £10. For those with bigger appetites, £12.50, £15 and £17.50 options will be available.

La Fête dé Noué, November 30-December 15:

Jersey lights up with a full programme of activities. Late-night shopping, street entertainment, carol concerts, Christmas parades and guided walks covering the island’s history and natural environment.

To read more about Jersey Gems in our Spring magazine click here