This defensive tower sits on a small rocky outcrop, about 2km offshore. It is located off the east coast of Jersey, and is accessible on low-tides, by foot, from La Rocque harbour.
The ocean tides in this area a particularly dangerous, so you would be well advised to check tide times before venturing out there, and making sure you start walking back to shore before the tide turns.
The base of Seymour Tower has space for a battery of canons. The tower itself is square, unlike most of Jersey's coastal towers which are round.
It was built as part of the island's defences after the French made an invasion landing is this area.
The tower is in the care of the Jersey Heritage Trust, and can be rented out for short stays, and activities. It has been recently fitted-out with basic facilities, such as bunk-beds and a cooker.
Tuesday, 26 February 2008
Seymour Tower
Saturday, 23 June 2007
Plémont
Plémont is a very unique and secluded cove, which can be found on the north coast of Jersey. It has views across the English Channel to the other islands, such as Sark, and a nice cafe with indoor and terrace seating. A must-see if you're visiting Jersey on holiday.
The small sandy beach is covered by the high-tide. When the tide is low, you can explore the rocks and a near-by cave.There is a cliff top footpath, this can be followed east or west. Be aware that the paths are very steep in places.
Swimming is safest on a low tide, but there is a lifeguard in attendance during the warmer months. Body boarding is possible at times.There is minimal car parking near the beach and cafe, and a larger parking area at the top of the hill.
The photo below shows a section of the cliff paths. The greenery is some young ferns.
Sunday, 17 June 2007
Jersey Oyster Farm
The Jersey Oyster Company is the largest oyster farm in Great Britain. Most of their oysters are exported to France. They also ship them to Whitstable and Colchester in the UK. Most of those find their way to tables in London restaurants.
The farm is located on Jersey's east coast, in the Royal Bay of Grouville. They also produce muscles which are served up in local restaurants.
There is evidence which shows that Jersey people have eaten oysters from these beaches for the last 6,000 years! Although, originally they would have been fished for and not farmed.
The Jersey Oyster Company was originally called "Le Société de Produits Ostréicole Jerrais" when it first started in the year 1973.
Sunday, 10 June 2007
Rickshaws in Jersey
St. Helier now has a Rickshaw "taxi" service. Right now the operator has just the one Rickshaw which operates on a fixed cycle route between the St. Helier waterfront and St. Aubin. The owner does plan to have more Rickshaws, and hopes to be able to operate a service throughout the town.Unfortunately, the one Rickshaw they have was already out and about when I took the above photo! But, you can see the other four wheeler bikes which are available for hire. These ones are self-ride.
You'll find a long cycle path which runs along the coast, at the top of the sea wall, from the waterfront to St. Aubin.
There are lots of nice cafes, bars and restaurants in St. Aubin, with views of the small harbour and fort.
If you enjoy cycling, you will be pleased to know that the whole of Jersey is accessible on a bike. But, be aware that there are many steep hills and plenty of cars to contend with in built-up areas.
Elizabeth Marina
Elizabeth Marina is Jersey's newest marina, which was opened in 1998. It has plenty of modern facilities, including electricity and water for each berth, and security cameras. Disabled access is good, with long ramps providing access to the pontoons.Most vessels in this marina are the more expensive pleasure boats and yachts. The photo below shows a pair of brand new Fairline motor yachts.
At present there is a new Radisson SAS hotel being constructed, right next to the Elizabeth Marina. This hotel won't be open until late 2007, or 2008. However, there are plenty of other hotels nearby. These include the Pomme d'Or Hotel and the Grand Hotel.
You can find out more about St. Helier's main harbour, and nearby services on this page.
The above satellite photo shows the Elizabeth Marina, outlined in red. Elizabeth Castle can be seen, not far offshore. The castle can be accessed on foot, when the tide is low. On a high-tide there are amphibious vehicles which ferry passengers to the castle.
Saturday, 9 June 2007
Rozel Bay
Rozel is situated on the north coast of Jersey, in the parish of St. Martin. This is a very small fishing port, and has quite a unique appearance and plenty of character.
The photo below was taken on a warm day in June 2007, as you can see there was a lot of sea mist around, which adds to the mystique and charm of Rozel.
The short pier, which harbours several small fishing boats, is constructed from the local volcanic rock. Several cafes, restaurants and hotels can be found here.Rozel provides for fairly safe swimming, bathing and canoeing. Just like all of Jersey's beaches the water is very clean, you might even see the odd dolphin. The water is generally quite cold, but you may find warm patches of water near rocks which have stored the heat of the sun.
