Grandes Rocques and Port Soif are up there amongst our favourite beaches and this walk gives you the chance to visit both. With Grandes Rocques Fort en route and amazing rocky terrain, it will be sure to keep even the most intrepid kids satisfied.
Starting at Grandes Rocques Beach
Grandes Rocques is one of our year-round favourites, whether it’s having picnics on the sand in the summer, watching the sunsets or wrapping up warm and climbing the rocks on a windy winters day, this is the beach that keeps on giving! The fort is located at the far side of Grandes Rocques beach, on the right hand side as you look at the beach.
Location
Grandes Rocques is located on Guernsey’s west coast, just north of Cobo Bay. There is ample room for parking with a car park off Rue de la Saline, and a further car park off this one, which gives closer access to the beach and footpath.
The Footpath
The coastal path sits behind Grandes Rocques beach and will take you on a lovely short walk to Port Soif, past Grandes Rocques Fort. The views are beautiful, and the route is quite flat, albeit sandy behind Grandes Rocques beach, before you get to the beach kiosk, however, you can miss this section if you join the footpath from the car park to the right of the kiosk.
Beyond the beach kiosk the gravel path is flat and takes you to Grandes Rocques Fort, however, rather than take the footpath, our girls always opt to climb over the rocks instead!…
The Fort
Grandes Rocques Fort (officially a battery but referred to as Grandes Rocques Fort) was constructed c.1779 and was armed with three 24 pounder guns. Today, no guns remain on site, however, there’s still lots to explore on multiple levels both in the fort itself, and the surrounding area. It’s a great choice for a visit with kids of all ages.
World War II
The fort was altered by the German occupying forces during World War II, and what remains is fascinating for both adults and kids. Our girls love looking out from the gun placements and the views are stunning.
Rock Climbing Fun
The area surrounding the fort is a natural playground of amazing rocks to climb. With hard and easier areas for kids of differing ages.
On to Port Soif
Follow the footpath with Grandes Rocques Fort behind you, taking the path as it branches to the left. You will walk on a path with a tall brick wall on your right.
Keep on the rocky path and you’ll come to Port Soif beach. An absolutely stunning sandy beach with a great beach cafe. If you fancy a swim you must check the tides as the beach changes at low tide, with rocks instead of water! For more information about Port Soif Beach CLICK HERE.
To return back to Grandes Rocques you can either retrace your steps or follow the coast road instead.
This walk is perfect for kids of all ages and with the bonus of two great beaches, both with excellent facilities, we hope you enjoy it as much as we do!
Address
Grandes Rocques, Rue de la Saline, Castel, GY5 7FX
Bus Routes
41, 91, 92
Dogs On Grandes Rocques Beach
Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round.
