The ultimate autumn walking weekend in Alderney
Alderney is made for exploring on foot.
The island may only be a few miles long, but it's walking routes take you through very different landscapes, from rugged coastal paths and wide sandy bays to peaceful nature reserves, historic forts and country lanes.
Autumn is a particularly good time to pull on your walking boots. Cooler temperatures make longer routes comfortable, while the lower sun highlights the cliffs, granite coastline and changing colours along the island’s paths.
If you’re planning a weekend break, here’s one way to combine some of Alderney’s best walks with plenty of time for good food, coffee and a bit of relaxation along the way.
Friday: Start with Alderney’s west coast
Once you’ve arrived and settled in, start your weekend with a walk along the west coast.
From Braye, head out towards Fort Tourgis and Fort Clonque, following the coastline as the harbour gives way to open sea views and Alderney’s rugged western landscape.
Fort Clonque is one of the island’s most distinctive landmarks. Built on a rocky outcrop and connected to the island by a causeway, it makes a rewarding destination for your first walk of the weekend.
Take your time along the route and enjoy the views across the Channel. Later in the day, this part of the island is also a great place to watch the sun begin to set over the sea.
After your walk, head back towards Braye or St Anne for dinner. Alderney has a good choice of pubs and restaurants, so there’s no need to rush after your first afternoon outdoors.
Saturday morning: Take on the Gannet Trail
Saturday is the day to stretch your legs a little further.
Head towards Alderney’s south coast and take on the Gannet Trail, a 4 mile route that takes around 2 hours to complete.
The walk passes through some of the island’s most impressive coastal scenery, with sweeping views across the Channel and plenty of reasons to stop along the way. The highlight is the viewpoint overlooking Les Étacs, where hundreds of gannets gather on the rocky islet just offshore.
The route also takes in the restored Napoleonic Telegraph Tower, Lager Sylt and Giffoine Headland, combining wildlife, history and some of Alderney’s best coastal views in a single walk.
There are several steep inclines along the route, so this walk is best suited to those who are comfortable with more challenging terrain. Allow plenty of time to stop at the viewpoints and enjoy the scenery.
The Gannet Trail
Stop for lunch in St Anne
After a morning on the cliff paths, make your way back towards St Anne for lunch.
The island’s main town has a good mix of cafés, pubs and restaurants where you can sit down, recharge and decide how energetic you want the afternoon to be.
It’s also worth leaving yourself some time to wander around St Anne. The town’s granite buildings, independent shops and quiet lanes make it an enjoyable place to explore before heading back out.
Sunday: Explore the Zig Zag and Bonne Terre Valley
For your final morning, swap the exposed south coast for a walk through Alderney’s countryside.
The Zig Zag route spends much of its time inland, taking you through the peaceful surroundings of Bonne Terre Valley and giving you a different view of the island after Saturday’s coastal walk.
Along the way, the route passes several interesting landmarks, including The Watermill, the Water Tower and Island Hall, with only a short section of the walk following the coast.
It makes a good choice for your final morning, combining country lanes, green spaces and local history while still giving you time for coffee or lunch before heading home.
Zig-Zag
What to bring for an autumn walk
A little preparation will help you make the most of your weekend.
Sturdy walking shoes or boots are a good idea, particularly on steeper coastal sections. Bring a waterproof jacket and a few layers so you can adapt to changing conditions throughout the day.
A refillable water bottle is useful on longer routes, while binoculars are worth packing if you’re planning to visit Longis Nature Reserve or Les Etacs to view the gannets.
Your weekend, your pace
This itinerary is only one way to explore Alderney.
You could take on longer sections of the coastal path, spend more time wildlife watching or slow things down with shorter walks between beaches, historic sites and cafés.
That flexibility is part of what makes the island so well suited to a walking weekend. You can cover plenty of ground without spending the whole break rushing from one place to another.
Plan your autumn walking weekend
Ready to get walking?
Explore our walking guides to find routes around the island, then browse accommodation and travel information to start planning your autumn break in Alderney.