The Jersey Collection; Grève de Lecq

Grève de Lecq, one of Jersey’s most popular beaches (and most beautiful, in my opinion). A childhood favourite of mine that I love just as much now, adored by tourists and locals alike! Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands and those who visit are simply inundated by beautiful bays and beaches to head to, but Grève de Lecq is really not one to miss out on.

Grève de Lecq is situated on the North Coast of the island. For years there have been disagreements about whether it lies in the parish of St Ouen or St Mary, so to avoid quibble, many have decided it is on the border between them. The beach is quite small, especially in comparison to long, stretching beaches such as St Ouen’s Bay. But it has everything to offer! Its golden sand is unique on the island and it is a sun trap for most of the day, though it does tend to lose the sun in the late afternoon, last leaving the East end. The Grève’s beautiful turquoise water is potentially the coldest on the island but well worth braving for a refreshing dip! Swimming is generally very safe here and a great opportunity to spot some of the sea creatures that flock here, such as silver fish and jellyfish.

To the West of the Grève, you’ll find the remains of an unfinished pier, whereas the East of the beach is covered in rocks, making for numerous rock pools to explore. When the tide is in, the higher rocks become the stomping ground of cliff jumpers looking for thrills, while some scale around them to reach a tiny cove called ‘Little Grève’. Be careful if attempting this – it is better to go with a guided group to avoid getting stuck or getting into trouble in the water.

If you’re not such a beach person, Grève de Lecq still offers a lot to get up to. Barracks built overlooking the beach were constructed in the 1800s and used until the 1920s. Beside these barracks, you can follow a cliff path walk up to Catel Fort, an 18th Century guardhouse. Most of the time, the site is closed to the public but you will still find stunning views and great blackberry picking. As well as that, you can continue onto a tougher walk that leads to the Devil’s Hole in St Mary. From the Grève, you can also access an Iron Age site from behind the barracks or find a nice forest walk accessed a little further along the road, just past the Moulin de Lecq which is mentioned below.

Practically, the Grève has great facilities. Along the promenade, there are two cafés as well as a beachside kiosk, a shop and two close-by pubs that offer food, The Prince of Wales Hotel and Le Moulin de Lecq. There are toilets right beside the beach, a lifeguard service and good disabled access via a sliproad onto the sands. Dogs are allowed all year round but should be kept on the lead during certain times in peak season. There is free parking beside the main entrance and slightly up the road from the beach. Public transport users will find a frequent bus service there via Route 9 and 12.