A Long Weekend in Jersey: Clean Beaches, Charming Parishes & A Devil in the Hole
St Brelade – Beaches & a Gentle Start We started at St Brelade’s Bay, a wide sweep of soft golden sand that looked like it had been combed clean overnight. The water was calm and glassy, with families dotted about enjoying the morning sunshine. At the far end we found the tiny Fishermen’s Chapel, a centuries-old stone chapel that’s beautifully preserved and still in use today. It set the tone for the whole trip: peaceful, immaculate, and full of quiet character.
St Ouen – Big Skies & Sea Air Driving west, we arrived at St Ouen’s Bay. If St Brelade was gentle, St Ouen was wild. The Atlantic rolled in with big waves and surfers zipped across the breaks. We walked the dunes and soaked up the vast skies, it’s the kind of place where you just want to stand still and take it all in. And, like everywhere on the island, it was unspoilt.
A Devilish Detour – St Mary Heading north, we couldn’t miss Devil’s Hole in St Mary. The path down was tidy and well kept, opening out to a dramatic sea-carved crater where the water thundered below. Before you get there, a cheeky devil statue greets you at the entrance, a fun touch to balance the drama of the cliffs. Afterward, we treated ourselves to a stop at La Mare Wine Estate, just nearby. Sitting in the vineyard garden with a chilled glass of local white was the perfect way to round off the adventure.
St Lawrence – Countryside Charm Inland, St Lawrence was all about peaceful lanes, granite farmhouses, and a slower pace. Every hedge was clipped, every lane spotless — it felt like stepping back in time. On the way, we came across one of the island’s smaller independent vineyards. A quick tasting turned into a longer pause (as they often do!) and gave us another chance to sample Jersey’s growing wine scene.
St Clement – Small but Scenic Next came St Clement, one of the island’s smaller parishes. At low tide we wandered out across the rocks, poked around tidal pools, and spotted tiny crabs clinging to the seaweed. Even here, with the sea pulling back to reveal half the seabed, everything looked neat and cared for.
Trinity – Green & Peaceful Trinity showed us another side of Jersey’s countryside, all winding lanes and lush greenery. Just when we thought we couldn’t possibly have another glass of wine, we stopped at another vineyard tucked away in the parish. A light rosé, a seat overlooking the vines, and the sound of birdsong all around, it was one of those perfect travel moments.
Grouville – Castles & Coastal Views Over on the east coast, Grouville gave us one of the trip’s highlights: Mont Orgueil Castle. This huge medieval fortress towers above Gorey Harbour, and exploring its staircases and battlements felt like stepping into history. The views from the top were incredible, fishing boats bobbing in the harbour below, the curve of Grouville Bay, and France faintly visible on the horizon. The harbour itself was spotless, with pastel cottages and flower boxes completing the postcard scene.
St Helier – A Lively Finish We wrapped things up in St Helier, Jersey’s capital. After days of parish-hopping, it felt lively and full of energy: market stalls buzzing, the harbour busy with boats, and Victorian buildings standing proud. And yet, like everywhere else, it was strikingly clean and well looked after. We toasted the end of our trip with one last glass of wine overlooking the harbour, a perfect finish to a wonderful long weekend.
Practical Tips for Visiting Jersey Getting Around Jersey may be small (9 miles by 5), but to make the most of it you’ll want a car. The lanes are narrow, but driving between parishes is easy and distances are short. Public buses are reliable too if you prefer to leave the car behind. Best Time to Visit Spring and summer (May–September) are ideal, when the vineyards are open, flowers are in bloom, and the beaches are at their best. But autumn brings quieter lanes and cosy vineyard tastings too. Wine Stops • La Mare Wine Estate (St Mary): The largest and best-known, with tours, tastings, and a lovely café. • Local vineyards in St Lawrence & Trinity: Smaller, family-run vineyards often welcome visitors for tastings. Check ahead, as opening times can vary. Exploring the Parishes Each parish has its own personality: • St Brelade – family-friendly beaches • St Ouen – wild surf and dunes • St Lawrence & Trinity – countryside calm • St Clement – scenic shoreline • Grouville – history and castles • St Helier – markets and bustle • St Mary – Devil’s Hole and wine How Long Do You Need? A long weekend is enough to cover plenty of ground, but four or five days would let you explore at a slower pace (with more vineyard time).
Final Thoughts Seven parishes, three vineyards, endless beaches, and even a devil in a hole! Jersey gave us a weekend that was both relaxing and full of adventure. What stood out most wasn’t just the scenery (though it’s stunning), but how well preserved, clean, and cared for everything felt. Jersey may be small, but it delivers in a big way, especially if you like a good glass of wine with your views.
