What Makes Walking to Noirmont Point the Perfect Walking Destination?
A walk to Noirmont Point is one of the most rewarding coastal strolls in Jersey. Blending natural beauty and fascinating history on a walk that is an ideal length and not too strenuous, Noirmont Point is an incredible way to experience the best of Jersey. Showcasing stunning sea views, dramatic coastline, vibrant meadows and iconic heritage sites, this walk offers all the highlights of this captivating Channel Island.
Jersey Coastal Walks
Offering a mix of dramatic scenery, rich wildlife and fascinating history, Jersey’s coastal walks offer jaw-dropping landscapes at every turn. The coastline is full of variety, from sweeping sands and glistening turquoise waters to rugged headlands and hidden coves. With so much diversity, no two walks are the same, and as the seasons change, there is also so much variety in what the coastal walks have to offer. Jersey’s coastal walks are more than just scenic sea views as you will also pass reminders of the island’s layered past, including prehistoric dolmens, war fortifications and mediaeval castles with one of the most impressive walks being the one to Noirmont Point.
The Walk to Noirmont Point
There are numerous walking routes that will take you to Noirmont Point, including the Jersey Coast Path. However, the most popular is a 4-mile route that begins at St Aubin’s Village. Following the coastal path along the bay, the walk passes sandy beaches, bobbing boats and hidden bays before gently climbing the rugged headland. Wander through the peaceful countryside and rich meadows, which in the spring and summer are particularly vibrant and picturesque. As you approach the headland, the landscape reopens to sweeping sea views as well as historic sites that are a reminder of the island’s war history. Noirmont is also home to a Jersey war memorial, a striking granite stone overlooking the bay, and Noirmont Point Lighthouse, which has guided passing ships for more than a century. From here, the views stretch across St Aubin’s Bay and over to Elizabeth Castle, making Noirmont Point a perfect spot to pause, take in the scenery and perhaps catch a stunning sunset before heading back.
The History of Noirmont Point
Nestled on a southern headland overlooking St Aubin’s Bay, Noirmont Point is a registered Site of Special Interest on Jersey’s coastline. Featuring diverse habitats that support rare plants and seabirds, boasting breathtaking scenic views and home to a number of historic sites, it is one of the most impressive headlands on the island to visit.
The most iconic landmark at Noirmont Point is the lighthouse built on a Martello Tower. Constructed in the early 1800s to defend this corner of Jersey, the Martello Tower known as La Tour de Vinde has witnessed the island’s history unfolding since the 19th century. In 1915, the lighthouse was added to identify the Silltees Reef, a mile south of the headland. In World War II, occupying forces built Battery Lothringen and a number of German bunkers as part of Hitler’s Atlantic Wall of Defence. Following the war, in 1950, the States of Jersey bought the headland, and it now serves as a memorial for those who died during the war. To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Liberation, a memorial stone was unveiled in 1970.
Things to See at Noirmont Point
The headland of Noirmont Point not only boasts incredible coastal views, woodland walks and wildflower meadows, it is also home to numerous historic sites that make it a fascinating walk.
Noirmont Point Lighthouse
If you are heading to Noirmont Point, the lighthouse is an iconic landmark that identifies this corner of the Jersey coastline. Between the years of 1810 and 1814, a martello tower was built as the most southerly point of Jersey to protect the island from the threat of Napoleonic Invasion. The tower, known as La Tour de Vinde is painted in black and white stripes to serve as a daymark for passing sailors.
With rocky outcrops that are hazardous for travelling between La Corbiere and St Helier, plus a reef approximately a mile off shore, a light was installed at La Tour de Vinde in 1915. Initially a lantern, it was later replaced by a polycarbonate lamp and now operates exclusively by solar power.
Though the tower itself is closed to the public, you can reach the tower at low tide.
Battery Lothringen
One of Jersey’s most striking reminders of the German Occupation is Battery Lothringen. Built as part of Hitler’s Atlantic Wall during World War II, Battery Lothringen features bunkers, command posts, a multi-storey observation tower and once housed huge naval guns. Visitors have the chance to explore the battery during open days when you can step inside to see the restored wartime rooms and learn about the role it played during the occupation. This coastal artillery battery is one of the most unique on the island and a must-visit if your trip coincides with an open day.
WWII German Bunkers
Noirmont Point is home to some of the most impressive and well-preserved German war bunkers on the island. Part of the extensive coastal defences built on the island during World War II, the headland was chosen for its commanding position over St Aubin’s Bay, making it a strategic site for the occupying forces. The bunkers still feature original gun emplacements, underground ammunition stores and crew quarters. Designed to withstand both naval and aerial attack, the bunkers are predominantly made from reinforced concrete.
Liberation Memorial Stone
Unveiled in 1970 to mark the 25th anniversary of the island’s Liberation from the German Occupation, Noirmont Point is home to a memorial stone that honours the Jersey residents who lost their lives during the Second World War. The headland was acquired by the States of Jersey in 1950 to commemorate the men and women who died in World War II and 20 years later, the stone was added, now receiving floral tributes on a regular basis.
Other Points of Interest Walking to Noirmont Point
A walk to Noirmont Point is as much about the journey as it is the destination, with so much to see and admire along the way.
St Aubin’s Fort
If you begin your walk to Noirmont Point on the coastal route from St Aubin, St Aubin’s Fort will be the first point of interest you see along the way. At the opposite end of St Aubin’s Bay to the iconic Elizabeth Castle, the fort sits half a mile offshore and is accessible during low tide. When the waves retreat, a concrete walkway appears, allowing you to cross. Built in 1542, the fortification has witnessed the island’s history for centuries.
Belcroute Bay
Tucked away to the west of St Aubin’s harbour, Belcroute Bay is a hidden gem that is sheltered by woodland slopes and rocky outcrops. A charming and peaceful cove that feels far removed from the bustle of the nearby village, the bay is the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a calming swim or even enjoy a spot of rock pooling.
La Hougue de Vinde
Jersey is an island renowned for its extensive collection of Neolithic sites and La Hougue de Vinde is one you will come across on a walk from St Aubin to Noirmont Point. Unlike many of the dolmens on the island, this one is less obvious and not as well preserved but remains fascinating to anyone with an interest in Neolithic sites.
Portelet Tower
Once you arrive at Noirmont Point, head to the opposite end of the headland for a view of Portelet Tower. Just offshore from Portelet Bay, the tower sits on the tidal islet of Ile de Guerdain and is often referred to as Janvrin’s Tomb. As well as its place in the island’s history as a coastal defence tower, it is also known as the resting place of sea captain Philippe Janvrin who died of the plague there.
