Discover Saint Brelade

Saint Brelade brings together two historic defensive sites at Noirmont, with stories from the early 19th century and the Second World War. Their construction dates and different forms offer clear points of reference when you consider which historical themes should shape your choice of holiday destination.

Two defensive sites, two eras

Battery Lothringen at Noirmont Point is a German naval installation from the Second World War. Built between 1941 and 1944, it comprises a multi-storey command tower, underground bunkers, and searchlight and gun emplacements. Its various structures give the term “installation” a concrete form: these include underground areas, the multi-storey tower, and positions for lights and guns.

La Tour de Vinde lies at the foot of the Noirmont headland. This Martello tower was built between 1810 and 1814 to defend against Napoleonic forces. Together, the two structures offer a historical comparison spanning more than a century: the tower dates from the era of the Napoleonic forces, while Battery Lothringen dates from the Second World War. This gives you a concrete point of reference for planning your trip if you are particularly interested in military history and different forms of defence.

Jersey: coastlines, trails and water

Jersey’s coastal areas vary considerably. The south has golden sandy bays, the west coast has Atlantic surf, and the north and east have sheltered coves and hidden tidal pools. The Jersey Tidal Trail is a coastal route featuring high cliffs and golden bays. These landscapes offer different points of reference for the kind of coastline you would like to experience during your stay on Jersey.

There are also plenty of ways to stay active on Jersey, including walking trails of varying difficulty. Outdoor activities along the coast include surfing, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Providers and availability may vary; if water sports are important to your trip, check what is on offer before making plans. This can help you choose an island based on whether trails, coastal scenery or water-based activities are your main priority.

Culture and food on Jersey

Jersey also offers various ways to explore the island’s history. The main buildings at Hamptonne are named after the former owner families Langlois, Hamptonne and Syvret, who lived there from the 15th to the 19th century. The Maritime Museum and the Occupation Tapestry Gallery present Jersey’s maritime history and the island’s history during the Second World War. These subjects complement the view of Saint Brelade’s defensive sites with insights into Jersey’s cultural history.

Jersey Heritage offers cultural walks categorised as coastal, countryside or town walks. Individual offerings may change, so check what is currently available before making plans. The Visit Jersey visitor centre is located at the Jersey Museum on The Weighbridge in St Helier (JE2 3NG). As this location may change, it is best to confirm it before your visit. For a taste of local food, the Flavours of Jersey: Foodie Tour with a Twist visits the Victorian Central Market in St Helier. Participants sample island produce and selected specialities there. Check before travelling to see whether the tour is running.

Choose a holiday rental based on your travel interests

When looking for a holiday rental in Saint Brelade, it helps to weigh up local highlights and island-wide themes separately. The Battery and La Tour de Vinde give you two specific historical points of reference in the area. Coastal landscapes, walking trails, water sports and cultural activities broaden the range of interests to explore across Jersey as a whole. Consider whether military history is particularly important to your choice of holiday destination, or whether other island themes will play a bigger part in your stay.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Saint Saviour, St Aubin, Grouville, Saint Peters Jersey, Saint Helier Jersey, Trinity, Rozel, St Mary's Village.

For the main travel overview: Jersey.