La Rocque

This area of the Parish of St Clement, close to the harbour is 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.

The rocky intertidal is accessible on foot at most low tides, and 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 in a circuitous route onto the exposed seabed, through shallow pools and streams, passing over sand, gravel and shingle as we follow the tide out, exploring in tidal pools along the way.

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.

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

Snacks and hydration

This is a relatively short walk, but bring a snack and drink if you want to. 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. Rain will not stop the walk from going ahead, so please be prepared.

Potential hazards

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 water.

Parking, bus route and public amenities

Parking is usually available in the car park or on the slipway opposite Seymour Pub, but there are no public toilets. The nearest public conveniences are at Gorey or La Rocque.

Liberty Bus route No 1 stops at the top of the slip on the way to St Helier, or on towards Gorey from the other side of the road, 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, and have assessed the risks.