Cycling in Jersey
Our whistle-stop tour of the west will take you to some of Jersey’s best-loved beaches, viewpoints and eateries. Bikes can be hired for the day from Les Ormes reception - all you need is a good supply of water and sun cream. If you’re planning to stay out to see the sunset (highly recommended), don’t forget a set of bike lights.
Fuel up
For this one day pedal-powered itinerary you’ll need plenty of energy, so we recommend starting off with a hearty breakfast at the Brasserie. Whether you’re after the full English, pancakes, pastries or granola, our breakfast menu has it covered!
The map
First stop St Aubin
From Les Ormes, head out of the main gate, then turn right towards St Brelade’s village along La Route De Quennevais. Join the old railway track on your left at Don Bridge bus stop (just before the shopping precinct).
Freewheel down the track for the next 3km and you’ll arrive in the picturesque harbourside village of St Aubin.
For perfect seaside views, it’s hard to beat St Aubin. It’s a lovely spot to lock up the bike, have a look around and wrap your hands around a well-deserved coffee.
Best things to do in St Aubin
- Ride a Jetski
- Explore St Aubin’s Fort at low tide
- Visit the Harbour Gallery and see some local art
- Have brunch at one of the many cafés
St Aubin to Portelet Bay
By this point your legs should be warmed up - and they’ll need to be, as you have a hill to climb! Head out of St Aubin up the main road - Mont Les Vaux - for about 15 minutes until you reach Woodbine Corner Stores. Hang a left here and continue for 1.5km until you reach the car park above Portelet Bay. Lock your bike up and head down the track to the beach on foot.
Portelet Bay is an often uncrowded, sun-drenched south coast beach, popular with locals and boat owners who often moor in the bay.
It’s a superb bay for swimming, and there are lots of interesting rocks to explore, including Janvrin’s Tomb, the tower in the middle of the bay where Philippe Janvrin, a local seafarer, was buried in 1721. There’s also a great beach café.
If you don’t fancy a swim or the weather’s not good, head another 100 metres down Le Chemin De Noirmont to explore the World War II bunkers and gun emplacements that are strewn across Noirmont common. The views from here are also some of the best in the island: on a clear day you can see the entire south coast.
Best things to do at Portelet
- Swim and sunbathe in Portelet Bay
- Explore Janvrin’s Tomb at low tide
- Grab a pizza on the beach at Portelet Bay Café
- Explore the WW2 history on Noirmont Common
Portelet to St Ouen’s Bay for an epic sunset
In summer and autumn, the sun sets at any time between 7 and 10pm, so depending on the month, we’d recommend jumping back on your bike between 4 and 7pm to make sure you bag a prime spot in St Ouen’s Bay. You won’t want to miss one of the world’s best sunsets!
To get there, head back to Woodbine Corner Stores, then turn left and follow Les Route Des Genets for 1km into St Brelade Village. Head straight across the junction past Waitrose, and take Route Orange all the way to La Moye Garage. Take a right at the garage on to La Rue De Sergente, and follow it all the way down the hill into St Ouens Bay.
Hit the brakes as you descend the hill, and take time to admire one of Jersey’s most spectacular views: miles of rugged sand dunes, golden sand and clear blue waters.
Once you’re in St Ouen’s Bay, you can choose from the following bars, diners and restaurants from which to catch the sunset - or just head onto the beach with a blanket!
St Ouen's Bay Sunset Venues
Le Braye
great restaurant-quality food with a relaxed café vibe. Make sure you sit out front to catch the sunset.
El Tico
Beach cantina with a varied menu of tasty food from around the world and a front row seat for the sunset.
The Watersplash
Sunsets here usually end up with half the bar dancing on tables! It’s a favourite party spot for locals on a Sunday, with ice cold beer and classic bar food.
Getting back to Les Ormes
Remember to leave just enough in the tank to get back up Mont a la Brun to Les Ormes. Depending on where you enjoyed the sunset, the route back is anywhere from a 15 to 25 minute cycle.
Cold drinks will be waiting in the Brasserie on arrival!