Go off-the-beaten track this spring in Jersey

1.     Go back to the Ice Age at La Cotte

Did you know that over two billion years ago, before the Ice Age, Jersey was connected to mainland France? With its jagged rock formations and steep cliffs that plunge into the sea, the geography of Jersey is certainly impressive, and has been literally shaped by history. The dramatic weather conditions of the Ice Age carved out the island that you see today, something that can be explored on a two-hour walking tour of La Cotte. Walk in the footsteps of mammoths, pausing along the way to learn about the island’s Ice Age History. La Cotte de St. Brelade, for example, is one of the most significant Stone Age sites in Europe and the huge cave system has preserved the longest unbroken record of human occupation, ranging from 238,000 to 40,000 years ago. Don’t miss the raised beaches of Belcroute which were once occupied by Neanderthals.

2. Explore the Dolmens

Despite inhabiting Jersey some 7,500 years ago, the influence of the Neolithic communities can still be seen and felt today. Scattered around the parameter of the entire island are the remains of Neolithic dolmens and graves. There are 12 main sites you can visit. The oldest of them all to have been discovered is La Sergenté, a passage grave on Jersey’s southwest coast that dates back some 6,500 years. La Sergenté’s nearest neighbour is La Table de Marthes. This site dates back to the early Bronze Age and was used more recently as a place where important documents were signed.

La Hougue Bie is arguably the most fascinating of all of the dolmens, offering a rare glimpse inside one of the top ten oldest buildings in the world. Stand in the cavern and learn of the legend of the knight that killed the dragon in nearby Normandy that gives the sacred place its name. The former burial site is topped by a chapel and a replica of a Neolithic Longhouse can also be explored here, allowing visitors a look at what life was like in the Neolithic times. In more recent history, a huge Celtic Coin Hoard was discovered here in 2012 and you can head inside the on-site museum to see an exhibition about the discovery of the treasure.

3. Sea seashells at The Fishermen’s Chapel

Stroll to the far western tip of St. Brelade’s Beach to explore the Chapelle-ès-Pêcheurs. This Fishermen’s Chapel dates back to the 6th century and a closer look will reveal that the walls are made of crushed limpet shells. Next door to the old chapel is the newer St. Brelade’s Parish Church. Stand in the churchyard to take in the fresh spring air as you look out over the pristine sand lapped by the sea.

4. Climb to the top of Mont Orgueil Castle

Visit the fishing village of Gorey to get a closer look at the imperious castle that has been looming over it for more than 800 years. Mont Orgueil Castle played a starring role in the Hundred Years’ War, coming under attack by the French numerous times. Its history seemingly palpitates from the walls as you walk the stone staircases that lead to towers and secret rooms. Admire the displays of art that show portraits of the monarchy, including the world-renowned holographic artwork of the Queen from artist Rob Munday. End your visit with a climb to the very top of the fort for views of the boats bobbing in the water below.

5. Get an insight into life during WWII

Jersey was occupied by the Germans for five years before being liberated in 1945, a period which changed both the island’s landscape and communities forever. Head over to the Jersey War Tunnels to learn the story of WWII on the island and take a tour exploring over 1,000m of tunnels some 50m below the ground. The tunnels were dug by slave labourers before being converted into a hospital in 1943. Today, the complex tells the story of those years through a collection of exhibits that provide a moving timeline from occupation to resistance to liberation.

To see more of the relics left behind by Germany, embark on the Occupation Trail. This route covers almost 60km, joining the dots between 25 forts in various states of disrepair that were ordered to be build by Hitler. Whether you choose to visit every place on the trail or walk a small section of it, you’ll no doubt finish with a much deeper understanding of the lasting effects WWII had on Jersey.