Icho Tower - Intertidal Walk

Icho Tower

Situated roughly to the south of the slip, Icho Tower stands like a sentinel above the sea which surrounds it, within the RAMSAR Site, which is an internationally recognised and protected wetland, extending along the south east coast from La Collette in the west to Gorey in the east of the island of Jersey.

Accessible on foot only a few times a year at the lowest tides, it is not a place to be caught out by the rising tide. Due to the topography of the area, the rising sea can easily encircle the inexperienced or unwary walker or low water fisherman, and strong tidal currents can make this area treacherous. Every year people are rescued after finding themselves cut-off.

What to expect

This guided walk will take you almost 2km out to the tower along the seabed, through shallow pools and tidal streams, passing over gravel banks and shingle as we follow the tide out. Weather permitting we will stop at the tower, to explore or enjoy a snack or light refreshment if you have them.

Admire the spectacular view from the tiny islet that the tower was built on, across the expanse of rocky seabed and northwest towards Noirmont Point to northeast to St Catherine's Breakwater, past Seymour Tower and across Grouville Bay.

Change your perspective of the beach, and discover some of the superbly adapted organisms that thrive in the area, despite being left behind by the tide.

Protection of Flora and Fauna

The intertidal zone is a diverse and fragile environment, and we must do all we can to minimise the effect we have on this protected ecology if we want to protect it for future generations. By joining this walk, you are agreeing to abide by some basic guidelines: to walk with care and watch where you put you feet; to be gentle with any creatures that live in the intertidal, in and on the seabed and on or under rocks, and if you handle them do so with wet hands; to replace and rock and seaweed that may be lifted while exploring; and to be quiet and not disturb any resting seabirds or marine wildlife.

We all have a duty of care to protect this unique environment and limit the damage we cause, or allow to be caused by our actions. Please do not litter, and no dogs are permitted.

Safety Guidance

To participate in this walk, you will need to be reasonable fit, able to walk unassisted for several hours and prepared to be responsible for your own safety. Children must be accompanied by responsible adults. I carry a First Aid Kit and the Coastguard will be informed when we start and finish the walk.

Snacks and hydration

This walk is several hours long, so please bring a snack and drink. We will stop at the tower, weather permitting, for a break. Please hold onto any packaging, and dispose of it appropriately when we return to shore.

Clothing and footwear

Dress in layers, appropriate for the weather. We will be exposed to elements during the walk, and it may be chilly if it is windy. Wear wellies or other sturdy footwear that you don't mind getting wet. Be prepared to walk through shallow water, and bring hiking poles or sticks if you use them.

Potential hazards

Please arrive 10 - 15 minutes early, so that we can leave on time.

Participants will need to be able to keep up a steady pace on the way out to the Tower and on the return. The surface is uneven and at times soft. There will be rocks, sand and gravel underfoot and seaweed which can be slippery. We may also encounter creatures that bite, sting or pinch as we explore, so avoid handling them where possible. There may be shallow standing water and streams, and at times may need to wade through mid-calf depth water.

Parking, bus route and public amenities

There is a free car park between Le Hocq pub and the Parish Hall, and limited parking on the slipway opposite Le Hocq Pub. The nearest public toilets are at in the car park next to the recycling bins. Liberty Bus route No 1 stops at the top of the slip on the way to St Helier, or on towards Gorey from outside the car park, approximately every 15 - 20 minutes.

Disclaimer

Your participation in the walk is at your own risk and I shall not be held liable under any circumstances for any matter arising out of your participation. I accept no responsibility or liability for loss, damage or injury, other than for matters which I am not legally able to exclude or limit liability, and I am insured for this activity.