Chausey Archipelago

The Chausey Islands are located in the English Channel, south of Jersey, but are not generally included in the geographical definition of the Channel Islands, though geologically they join with them to form a larger archipelago. The islands are popular with French visitors and almost ignored by the English – there is no ferry Chausey and other islands.


This archipelago is little more than a cluster of grey granite lumps just above the sea surface. Subject to one of the highest tidal variation in the world, it is said that there are 365 islands at low tide and 52 in high tide. Awesome! Fierce sea currents create a multitude of rocky inlets, linked by vast sandy stretches.

Only the island, Grand Ile support any population. Cars and bicycles are banned, so the pace of life is pedestrian in the best sense of the word. Even in summer time the facilities on the island are limited, so the best way to enjoy the ever changing landscape is with a good pair of boots and a packed lunch. A coastal path encircled the island and formed good beach access.

When to go: June to September. Population: Winter 10, Summer, 100. Getting there: By ferry (summer only) from Saint – Malo or Granville. You should know: The local seafood is fantastic and fresh, try the lobster, mussels and oysters. Sailing through the archipelago many islets.