Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
tension of mainland Europe. A further settlement has been identified on the north coast
between Plemont and Grosnez, La Cotte a la Chevre. Access to this site is not straightfor-
ward, it is either a steep descent route from the cliff top or an approach by water, in either
case it is advisable to be in the company of a local guide.
In terms of Roman history there is very little evidence on the island. The only site is at the
base of Le Pinacle, on the northwest corner of Jersey. There is some evidence to suggest
that the stones on the col between Le Pinacle and the cliff were part of a Roman construc-
tion. If you have sought out this location you will be far more impressed by the physic-
al presence of Le Pinacle, a huge fossilized sea stack formed when the sea was above its
present level.
There is actually a cave running north from the southern side of Le Pinacle but to go
through it does require some specialist equipment and specific local knowledge, so in com-
mon with other activities where there is a degree of challenge and risk it is advisable to
arrange your journey through the cave with a local guide.
Scattered around the Island there are a number of passage graves, and it is recommended
to try and visit at least one or two of these sites. They tend to be on the edge of farmland
and the only evidence of their importance is reflected by the presence of some information
boards. Two of my favourites are the Dolmen du Couperon in the northeast and Grantez in
the northwest. Visit the first one at dawn and the second one at sunset, to truly appreciate
the atmosphere.
Jersey became part of what was then England in 1066 because it was part of Normandy, the
home of William the Conqueror, who became the King of England following the Battle of
Hastings. The next significant date was 1204 when Normandy became part of France but
the Channel Islands maintained their allegiance to the British Crown. As a result of their
loyalty the islands were granted a number of privileges, including being able to tax its own
