Les Ecrehous: A Hidden Gem in the Channel Islands
Discover the serene beauty of Les Ecrehous, a secluded paradise in the Channel Islands perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Les Ecrehous is a stunning group of tiny islands and rocks situated off the coast of Jersey in the Channel Islands. This hidden gem is perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The main attraction of Les Ecrehous is its unspoiled nature, making it a haven for wildlife and a great spot for bird watching. The clear waters surrounding the islands are ideal for snorkeling and kayaking, offering a chance to explore the rich marine life. When the tide is low, you can walk between the islands and discover the unique rock formations and hidden pools. It feels like stepping into another world as you wander around the rugged landscape. Due to its remote location, the islands are rarely crowded, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene environment. Visiting Les Ecrehous is a unique experience that combines adventure with relaxation. Whether you are a nature lover, a photographer, or simply someone who enjoys peaceful surroundings, Les Ecrehous will captivate you with its untouched beauty and charm.
Local tips in Les Ecrehous
- Check the tide times before you plan your visit as the islands are only accessible during low tide.
- Bring your own snacks and drinks as there are no facilities on the islands.
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on rocky terrain.
- Consider hiring a local boat operator to take you to the islands and provide insights about the area.
- Don't forget your binoculars and camera for birdwatching and capturing the stunning scenery.
Les Ecrehous: A Hidden Gem in the Channel Islands
Les Ecrehous is a stunning group of tiny islands and rocks situated off the coast of Jersey in the Channel Islands. This hidden gem is perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The main attraction of Les Ecrehous is its unspoiled nature, making it a haven for wildlife and a great spot for bird watching. The clear waters surrounding the islands are ideal for snorkeling and kayaking, offering a chance to explore the rich marine life. When the tide is low, you can walk between the islands and discover the unique rock formations and hidden pools. It feels like stepping into another world as you wander around the rugged landscape. Due to its remote location, the islands are rarely crowded, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene environment. Visiting Les Ecrehous is a unique experience that combines adventure with relaxation. Whether you are a nature lover, a photographer, or simply someone who enjoys peaceful surroundings, Les Ecrehous will captivate you with its untouched beauty and charm.
When is the best time to go to Les Ecrehous?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Unmissable attractions to see
Jersey National Park
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Jersey National Park, a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
The Language of Colour
Explore the vibrant world of art at 'The Language of Colour', a unique tourist attraction that engages your senses and sparks your creativity.
Bayeux Shuttle - Meehan Memorial
Explore the Bayeux Shuttle - Meehan Memorial in Sainte-Mère-Église, a tribute to bravery and a key site in World War II history.
Essential places to dine
The Hungry Man
Discover The Hungry Man in Jersey - where delicious fast food meets affordability in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bella Italia - Jersey
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Bella Italia in Jersey - perfect for families and food lovers alike.
The Boat House
Discover culinary delights at The Boat House in St Aubin - where exquisite food meets stunning waterfront views.
TGI Fridays - Jersey
Experience the best of American cuisine at TGI Fridays Jersey—where great food meets fun in St. Helier.
The Lookout Beach Cafe & Restaurant
Discover delicious dining with breathtaking views at The Lookout Beach Cafe & Restaurant in Jersey.
Pizza Express
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pizza Express in St. Helier – home to delicious pizzas and warm hospitality.
Jersey Crab Shack St Brelade
Savor exquisite seafood at Jersey Crab Shack St Brelade, where fresh flavors meet stunning coastal views in a welcoming atmosphere.
Mark Jordan at the Beach
Discover exquisite British seafood cuisine with stunning coastal views at Mark Jordan at the Beach in Jersey.
Le Moulin de Lecq
Discover Le Moulin de Lecq: A charming restaurant & pub in Jersey with stunning coastal views and delicious local cuisine.
Bonne Nuit Beach Cafe
Discover Bonne Nuit Beach Cafe - where delicious Thai cuisine meets stunning coastal views in Jersey.
The Salty Dog - Cafe, Bar & Bistro
Experience exquisite local flavors at The Salty Dog - Cafe, Bar & Bistro in Jersey; where every meal is a celebration of culinary artistry.
Les Fontaines Tavern
Discover Les Fontaines Tavern in Jersey: A cozy British pub offering delightful local cuisine and refreshing drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
La Taverne
Experience the taste of Jersey at La Taverne, where local flavors meet exceptional hospitality in St Helier.
Aromas Restaurant
Discover the flavors of Jersey at Aromas Restaurant – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Bellagio
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bellagio in St. Helier - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Liberty Wharf Shopping Centre
Explore Liberty Wharf Shopping Centre in St Helier, Jersey - your destination for shopping, dining, and local culture.
Rondels Farm Shop
Explore the best of Jersey's local produce and gourmet treats at Rondels Farm Shop, a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Durrell Charity Shop
Shop for a cause at Durrell Charity Shop in Jersey Zoo, where every purchase supports wildlife conservation and sustainability.
The Little Shop
Explore The Little Shop in St Helier for unique gifts and toys that capture Jersey's charm and creativity.
Amélie Homeware
Discover the charm of Amélie Homeware in St. Helier, where unique gifts and local artistry come together to create the perfect shopping experience.
Six roads stores
Explore local flavors at Six Roads Stores, Jersey's premier grocery destination for fresh produce and artisan goods.
Stephen Cohu Antiques
Explore Stephen Cohu Antiques in Jersey for a unique selection of vintage furniture, collectibles, and expert restoration services that celebrate history.
Maison De Jersey
Explore Maison De Jersey for unique souvenirs and corporate gifts that capture the essence of island life.
Made By Mums
Explore the vibrant world of crafts at Made By Mums in La Vallee des Vaux, Jersey – a treasure trove of handmade artistry and inspiration.
The Trading Point
Explore a charming boutique in Jersey, The Trading Point, where local craftsmanship meets unique gifts and artisanal treasures.
Les Charrien
Explore Jersey's unique gifts and local flavors at Les Charrien, where friendly service meets delightful treasures.
Manor Park Stores
Experience the local charm at Manor Park Stores in Jersey, where convenience meets community with a delightful selection of local products and friendly service.
Red Triangle Stores (Jersey Naturally at red triangle store)
Explore Red Triangle Stores, a charming general store in St Helier, Jersey, offering a diverse range of products from gardening to toys.
The Lilac Dragonfly
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at The Lilac Dragonfly, a charming gift shop in Jersey that embodies the island's creativity and spirit.
The Gooseberry Bush
Discover unique local crafts and souvenirs at The Gooseberry Bush, a charming gift shop in Jersey that captures the essence of island life.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
White Horse Pub & Dining
Discover the perfect blend of tradition and modernity at the White Horse Pub & Dining, a must-visit gastropub in Jersey.
Blue Note Bar
Discover the lively Blue Note Bar in St Helier, Jersey, where live music, cozy vibes, and delicious drinks create unforgettable nights out.
Les Fontaines Tavern
Experience authentic British and European flavors at Les Fontaines Tavern, a must-visit bar and restaurant on Jersey Island.
The Five Oaks
Discover the essence of Jersey's pub culture at The Five Oaks, a charming gastropub offering local flavors and a warm atmosphere.
The Rozel Pub & Dining
Discover the charm of The Rozel Pub & Dining in Jersey, where traditional cuisine meets stunning views, perfect for a delightful dining experience.
The Pembroke Pub & Country Kitchen
Experience the authentic taste of Jersey at The Pembroke Pub & Country Kitchen, where local cuisine meets warm hospitality in a charming setting.
The Admiral Tavern - Randalls Pubs
Experience the heart of Jersey at The Admiral Tavern, a cozy pub offering delicious food, a wide drink selection, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Vittoria
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Vittoria, a lively bar in St. Helier, Jersey, known for its diverse drinks and inviting atmosphere.
The Bacchus Bar- Randalls Pubs
Experience vibrant nightlife at The Bacchus Bar in Saint Helier, where great drinks, a friendly atmosphere, and local charm await every visitor.
Tiki Hut
Experience the tropical ambiance of Tiki Hut in St Helier, where refreshing cocktails and stunning harbor views await.
Horse & Hound
Discover the charm of Horse & Hound Pub, Jersey's favorite spot for locals and tourists to enjoy hearty meals and refreshing ales.
The Kings Bar
Discover the welcoming atmosphere and delightful drinks at The Kings Bar, a local favorite in the heart of St Helier, Jersey.
Saint Lawrence Pub
Experience authentic Jersey hospitality at the Saint Lawrence Pub, where delicious food and local ales await in a cozy atmosphere.
Robin Hood Inn
Experience the warmth and charm of Robin Hood Inn, a cozy pub in Jersey offering delicious food and drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Watchmaker
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite wine selection at The Watchmaker, a top wine bar in St Helier, Jersey, perfect for all wine enthusiasts.
Local Phrases about Les Ecrehous
-
- HelloSalut
[sa-loo] - GoodbyeAu revoir
[oh ruh-vwahr] - YesOui
[wee] - NoNon
[nohn] - Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît
[seel voo pleh] - Thank youMerci
[mehr-see] - Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi
[ehk-skew-zay mwa] - How are you?Comment ça va?
[koh-mohn sah vah] - Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
[byehn ay voo] - Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
[par-lay voo ahn-glay] - I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
[zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]
- HelloSalut
-
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
[zhuh voo-dray vwahr luh meh-nyoo seel voo pleh] - I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
[zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand] - Cheers!Santé!
[sahn-tay] - I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
[zhuh voo-dray pay-ay seel voo pleh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
-
- Help!Au secours!
[oh suh-coor] - Go away!Allez-vous en!
[ah-lay voo zahn] - Call the Police!Appelez la police!
[ah-pay-lay lah poh-lees] - Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
[ah-pay-lay uh may-dsan] - I'm lostJe suis perdu
[zhuh swee pehr-doo] - I'm illJe suis malade
[zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- Help!Au secours!
-
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
[zhuh voo-dray ah-shay-tay] - I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
[zhuh ruh-gahrd zheh-stuh] - How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
[kohm-byen sah koot] - That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
[say troh shehr] - Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
[poo-vay voo bay-say luh pree]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
-
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
[kell uhr ay-teel] - It's one o'clockIl est une heure
[eel ay oon uhr] - Half past (10)Dix et demie
[dees ay duh-mee] - MorningMatin
[mah-tahn] - AfternoonAprès-midi
[ah-pray mee-dee] - EveningSoir
[swahr] - YesterdayHier
[ee-ehr] - TodayAujourd'hui
[oh-zhoor-dwee] - TomorrowDemain
[duh-mahn] - 1Un
[uhn] - 2Deux
[deu] - 3Trois
[twah] - 4Quatre
[kat] - 5Cinq
[sank] - 6Six
[sees] - 7Sept
[seht] - 8Huit
[weet] - 9Neuf
[nuf] - 10Dix
[dees]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
-
- Where's a/the...?Où est...
[oo ay] - What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
[kell ay lah-dress] - Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
[poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray soor lah kart] - When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
[kahn ay luh proh-shahn bus] - A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
[uhn bee-yay poor]
- Where's a/the...?Où est...
History of Les Ecrehous
-
Les Écréhous, a group of islands and rocks situated about six miles off the northeastern coast of Jersey, have a storied history dating back to prehistoric times. Evidence suggests that the area was used by Neolithic people for fishing and possibly for seasonal habitation. The name 'Écréhous' is believed to derive from the Old Norse words 'sker' meaning rock and 'hólmr' meaning islet, reflecting the islands' rugged and isolated nature.
-
During the medieval period, Les Écréhous became a site of religious significance. The islands were granted to the Abbey of Valmont in Normandy around the 12th century. Monks from the abbey established a priory on the largest island, Maîtr'Île, where they constructed a small church and other structures. This ecclesiastical presence underscored the islands' strategic importance and their role in the broader religious and political landscape of the Channel Islands.
-
In the 17th and 18th centuries, the isolated and uninhabited nature of Les Écréhous made them an ideal hideout for pirates and smugglers. The islands' proximity to both Jersey and the French coast facilitated clandestine activities, including the smuggling of goods such as brandy and tobacco. The rugged terrain provided numerous hiding spots for contraband, and the treacherous waters served as a natural defense against law enforcement.
-
The sovereignty of Les Écréhous has been a contentious issue between Jersey and France for centuries. In the 19th century, both countries laid claim to the islands, leading to diplomatic tensions. The dispute was ultimately resolved in 1953 when the International Court of Justice ruled in favor of the United Kingdom, reaffirming Jersey's sovereignty over Les Écréhous. This decision has since been respected, although minor disputes occasionally arise.
-
In recent years, Les Écréhous have gained recognition for their ecological significance. The islands and surrounding waters are home to a diverse range of marine life, including seals, seabirds, and various fish species. Efforts have been made to protect this unique environment, leading to the establishment of a marine conservation zone in the area. These measures aim to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of Les Écréhous for future generations.
-
Les Écréhous hold a special place in the cultural heritage of Jersey. The islands are a popular destination for local artists, photographers, and nature enthusiasts, who are drawn to their stunning landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. Annual events, such as guided tours and educational programs, help raise awareness about the historical and ecological importance of Les Écréhous, fostering a sense of pride and stewardship among the local community.
Les Ecrehous Essentials
-
Les Ecrehous is a small group of islands and rocks situated about 6 miles off the northeastern coast of Jersey. The only way to reach Les Ecrehous is by boat. Various local tour operators offer boat trips from Jersey to Les Ecrehous, with departures typically from St. Catherine's or Gorey Harbour. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour, depending on sea conditions.
-
Since Les Ecrehous is an uninhabited and protected marine area, there are no public transportation options available on the islands themselves. Visitors typically explore the area on foot, enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility. Boats that bring you to Les Ecrehous usually stay anchored for a few hours, giving you ample time to explore before heading back to Jersey.
-
The official currency used in Jersey is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Jersey, but since Les Ecrehous has no facilities, you won’t need any money while on the islands. Ensure you have enough cash or card facilities for your boat trip and any purchases made before or after your visit to Les Ecrehous.
-
Les Ecrehous is generally a safe destination as it is uninhabited and visited primarily via organized boat trips. However, it is crucial to follow safety guidelines provided by your boat operator, especially regarding tides and weather conditions. Always wear life jackets while on the boat and be cautious of slippery rocks and strong currents around the islands. There are no known high-crime areas targeting tourists.
-
In case of an emergency while on Les Ecrehous, contact your boat operator immediately as there are no facilities or emergency services on the islands. For emergencies back in Jersey, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and to be aware of the emergency procedures provided by your boat tour operator.
-
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, including waterproof footwear. Don't wear high heels or impractical shoes. Religion: Do respect the natural environment. There are no religious sites on Les Ecrehous. Public Transport: Do follow the guidelines and instructions given by your boat operator. Don't expect any public transport on the islands. Greetings: Do greet your boat crew and fellow passengers politely. Eating & Drinking: Do bring your own refreshments if needed, but ensure you take all rubbish back with you. Don't leave any litter on the islands.
-
To experience Les Ecrehous like a local, consider visiting during the off-peak season for a more serene experience. Engage with your boat operator to learn about the history and ecology of the area. Take the time to explore the tidal pools and observe the diverse marine life. Always check the tide schedules before planning your visit, as the islands can be submerged during high tide. Lastly, remember to bring binoculars for bird watching and spotting seals, which are commonly seen around the islands.
Nearby Cities to Les Ecrehous
-
Things To Do in Trinity
-
Things To Do in St. Clement
-
Things To Do in St. Lawrence
-
Things To Do in St. Helier
-
Things To Do in St. Peter
-
Things To Do in St. Aubin
-
Things To Do in St. Ouen
-
Things To Do in St. Brelade
-
Things To Do in St. Anne
-
Things To Do in St. Peter Port
-
Things To Do in St. Sampson
-
Things To Do in St. Martin
-
Things To Do in St. Andrew
-
Things To Do in Forest
-
Things To Do in Vale