Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands, is a paradise for bikers looking to enjoy the outdoors and do their part to reduce their carbon footprint. The island is notable for its system of “Green Lanes,” paths open to bicyclists, pedestrians, and equestrians. They’re clearly marked, and you can find them off the beaten path, traversing scenic coastline trails and quiet country lanes.
Route 1, Circular Island Tour
Following the coastline around the island is the quickest and easiest way to get acquainted with it. The scenic seaside scenery, quaint villages, and green alleys of Route 1 are well marked and worth the trip. I pedaled westward along the bayside bike route from St. Helier, going counterclockwise around the island. The terrain has been level thus far, but at St. Aubin I begin to ascend through an abandoned railroad grade in order to reach the Corbiere Lighthouse.
After going through Sorel, St. John, and Trinity, the trail heads inland before eventually dropping down to the sea at the picturesque fishing resort of Rozel. I have lunch here before making the thrilling descent back to the lake at Fliquet and St. Catherine’s Breakwater. I can make out the clear outline of Mont Orgueil Castle, high above the Gorey harbor; it’s well worth a detour for a quick look around.
I’m on my way back to St. Helier now, having turned west and going through the town of Grouville. It took me most of the day, but I finally made it to my destination after cycling 50 miles. The battery almost dies at the end, but I make it back in the nick of time.
Routes 4 and 3, Jersey Zoo and Elizabeth Castle
I head north on Route 4 from St. Aubin’s Bay toward the island’s geographic center, where I want to visit the Jersey Zoo. I take Route 3 to connect to Route 3a, which takes me to the Les Augrès Manor Zoo outside of Trinity, near the island’s geographic center. The 32-acre park is dedicated to animal conservation and features beautiful parkland and water gardens.
Over 130 critically endangered animal, bird, reptile, and amphibian species call it home. Species such as the Sumatran orang-utan, the Andean bear, and the Montserrat oriole who were rescued from the smoldering volcano now enjoy large, verdant enclosures that are quite similar to their natural homes. Lemurs from Madagascar and little lion tamarinds from Brazil are able to run wild and jump from tree to tree in the forest. In addition to the aviary, there is a cloud forest where visitors can see otters, coatis, and howler monkeys.
In keeping with my goal of eco-friendly travel, I’ll be heading back the same way I came today: west along Route 3 until I reach the shore at St. Ouen’s Bay, and then retracing my steps along the coast from the day before. There is just enough time to catch the amphibious ride back to St. Helier and visit Elizabeth Castle on the bay. It was constructed in the 16th century to take the place of Mont Orgueil’s fortifications and was given the name “Elizabeth 1” in her honor. After my stay, I take advantage of the low tide and walk back to St. Helier along the causeway.
Jersey is committed to protecting the planet. They claim that they are always thinking of new methods to improve the sustainability and harmony of their island lifestyle. They plan to completely eliminate their carbon footprint by the year 2030. In exchange for filling a bucket with trash from the beach, you can get a free cup of coffee.
