Exploring Jersey’s Rich Geological History

Step back in time and explore the fascinating geological and historical landscape of Jersey’s north-western corner with the Around L’Etacq and Le Pinacle Geowalk, hosted by the Aspiring Jersey Island Geopark. This free, guided walk will take Islanders and visitors on an unforgettable journey through over 200 million years of rock history, showcasing remarkable geological features, evidence of past climate change, and fascinating human history.

This Geowalk offers a unique opportunity to understand how both natural and human history have shaped the Island. Participants will:

• Discover geological boundaries: Learn about the major geological boundary that marks over 200 million years of rock formation, giving insight into Jersey’s geological evolution.
• Understand climate change through time: Observe features that reveal how sea level and climate change are not new phenomena and how the Island’s geology has responded to shifts in climate throughout Earth’s history.
• Explore periglacial features: Examine the fascinating periglacial features that are remnants of past ice ages, helping to tell the story of Jersey’s environmental past.
  The geowalk will also guide participants to Les Landes, where you’ll find relics of Jersey’s Second World War past, including German WW2 bunkers and guns, offering a poignant glimpse into the Island’s Occupation history.

The Geowalk provides an opportunity to explore Jersey’s human heritage, including:

• Mesolithic sites: Discover one of the Island’s important Mesolithic sites and learn how early humans once lived in the area.
• Neolithic stone axe factory at Le Pinacle: Visit this site of special interest where prehistoric people manufactured stone tools, a fascinating relic of the Island’s Neolithic past

Millie Butel, Landscape Engagement & Geopark Development Curator commented: “We are delighted to host Geowalks which are enjoyed by Islanders and visitors alike. To walk along and touch sediments that have been deposited eons ago, is an opportunity to unearth Jersey’s remarkable past. As we aspire to achieve UNESCO Global Geopark status for the Bailiwick of Jersey, we look forward to organising future geowalks exploring the unique story of Jersey’s network of Geosites.”

Nicky Mansell, Geopark Guide, added: “Jersey is very fortunate to have such visual records of its past. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a geology aficionado, or simply enjoy exploring the great outdoors, the Around L’Etacq and Le Pinacle geowalk is a perfect way to discover the Island’s unique geology, history, and the interplay of nature and humankind through the ages.”

The geowalk is suitable for all levels of walkers, offering a perfect combination of beautiful coastal views and educational exploration.

To book on the Around L’Etacq and Le Pinacle geowalk, please visit us here.