Visiting Val de la Mare Reservoir in Jersey: Complete Walking and Arboretum Guide

When planning outdoor excursions across the Channel Islands, spending an afternoon exploring the western interior of Jersey often reveals landscapes quite distinct from the island’s sweeping coastal bays. Among the most peaceful natural retreats is Val De La Mare, an expansive freshwater and woodland destination tucked away in the parish of St Peter. Centred upon a tranquil body of water bordered by mature woodland, this site combines essential public utility infrastructure with thriving natural conservation. Whether you are seeking a brisk loop on foot, an afternoon admiring rare international forestry, or simply a scenic spot away from town, visiting Val de la Mare Reservoir offers an exceptional encounter with island nature.

Val de la Mare Reservoir was constructed in 1962 and represents the second largest reservoir in Jersey, holding up to 938.7 megalitres of untreated water across its substantial basin. Owned and operated by Jersey Water, the site forms a vital pillar of the island’s domestic water storage network while simultaneously serving as an expansive public amenity. The surrounding margins encompass rich wildlife habitats, quiet footpaths, and a world-renowned arboretum managed in partnership with local conservationists. To help you plan your excursion, this practical guide details everything you need to navigate the trails, discover botanical treasures, find designated parking, and follow important visitor safety guidelines.

The Circular Walking Route Around the Basin

For walkers, joggers, and nature enthusiasts, the primary draw of Val de la Mare is the perimeter footpath circling the freshwater lake. The complete circular walking route around Val de la Mare Reservoir measures 2.8 miles (4.5 km), providing a scenic loop that showcases dynamic perspectives of the water, surrounding hills, and tree canopies. Because the trail hugs the curves of the shoreline and weaves into adjoining groves, every section introduces different aspects of the local environment, from shaded copse passages to open views across the water surface.

Embarking on the 2.8-mile full circuit allows visitors to experience the reservoir’s peaceful atmosphere at an unhurried pace. As you progress along the route, the path leads through pockets of woodland, stretches of grassy verges, and elevated vantage points looking across the basin. In addition to the main loop, several connecting walking paths intersect the wider estate, allowing visitors to tailor their walk if they prefer shorter rambles or wish to focus their time exclusively within specific tree collections. Keep in mind that regardless of which specific loop you choose, sticking to the marked paths is essential to safeguard both the delicate natural habitats and public safety.

Trail Terrain and Visitor Accessibility

While the perimeter paths provide exceptional outdoor scenery, prospective visitors must consider the physical terrain before setting off. Due to the natural contours and rustic characteristics of the environment around Val de la Mare Reservoir, the walking paths are not suitable for wheelchair access. The trails feature natural earth paths, gravel, and unpaved footways that can become rough or uneven depending on weather conditions.

Furthermore, visitors are officially advised to exercise caution and watch for steep, slippery slopes, deep water, and unprotected heights during their visit. The shores slope down into deep reservoir waters, and natural gradients can become slick after rain. Water authorities caution visitors that changing water levels and submerged operational machinery make entering the basin hazardous; keeping strictly to designated footpaths ensures everyone remains safely away from steep embankments and hidden drop-offs. If you are comparing island walking paths, flatter paved routes such as the Railway Walk - St Aubin To Corbiere or the paths found at Queen's Valley Reservoir offer alternative walking profiles across the island.

Val de la Mare Arboretum and Rare Tree Species

One of the most remarkable features adjoining the water is the Val de la Mare Arboretum. Established in 1975 and situated in St Peter, this botanical sanctuary has developed into a celebrated natural gem. Jersey Trees for Life manages the arboretum’s upkeep and ongoing development under an agreement with landowner Jersey Water. Together, the organisations maintain and restore the plantings to ensure that the living collections thrive for educational and conservation purposes.

The arboretum features 12 tree collections, expanding to 14 distinct collections when including two newly developed trails. Among its most prestigious botanical treasures are four Chinese swamp cypresses (Glyptostrobus pensilis), which are the only seed-bearing examples of their species known in the northern hemisphere. The presence of these critically valuable specimens underscores the arboretum's importance to international botanical study and environmental preservation. Along with these rare cypresses, the diverse tree collections feature specimens including towering redwoods, aromatic eucalyptuses, vibrant maples, and delicate birches, representing botanical regions from across the globe nestled seamlessly into the Jersey countryside.

Interactive Botanical Exploration

Exploring the extensive groves at Val de la Mare has become even more engaging thanks to modern conservation tools. An online interactive map and database of Val de la Mare Arboretum was launched by Jersey Trees for Life, allowing visitors to view botanical details and precise tree locations directly on mobile devices while walking through the grounds. This digital initiative enables visitors to delve into the background, species classification, and conservation status of individual plantings as they encounter them along the paths.

Whether you are a seasoned botanist or simply enjoy spotting unusual autumn foliage or spring blossoms, having immediate access to the tree database transforms an ordinary stroll into an educational self-guided tour. The platform lets you navigate between the distinct geographical tree collections, identifying everything from giant redwoods to rare birch trees. Local outdoor practitioners such as Wild Edgewalker occasionally lead mindful nature sessions in these very woodlands, reflecting the serene environment and botanical depth cultivated throughout the site.

Getting There and Car Park Directions

Reaching the reservoir by road is straightforward from various parts of Jersey, with designated parking provided directly near the site entrance. Val de la Mare features dedicated visitor parking, serving as the official starting point for both the full reservoir perimeter circuit and the sheltered woodland paths winding through the arboretum. To reach the site without confusion, drivers can follow specific route approaches depending on their starting location across the island:

• From St Helier and the East: Drivers take Beaumont Hill (La Route de Beaumont) and proceed over the roundabout, continue straight along the road through St Peter’s Village, and then turn left off La Grande Route de St Pierre into the signposted top car park situated opposite the aMaizin! Adventure Park site.
• From the North: When travelling south from northern parishes, drivers turn into Route du Carrefour à Cendre from La Route de Ste Marie by Catherine Best (the windmill), follow that road to its very end, turn right onto La Grande Route de St Pierre, and then make an immediate left turn into the Val de la Mare car park.
• From the Les Landes Area: Approaching from the north-west, drivers follow the main road along La Grande Route de St Ouen before turning right directly into the car park, which sits opposite the aMaizin! Adventure Park site.

Upon arrival, visitors must park strictly within the designated car parking bays and take care never to block access gates or service tracks required by operational maintenance teams and emergency services. Vehicles remain parked at their owners’ risk at all times. Taking note of these precise navigation instructions makes planning your excursion effortless and ensures smooth entry onto the trails.

Opening Times, Admission, and On-Site Facilities

Visiting Val de la Mare is straightforward and cost-effective, making it an accessible year-round destination for both residents and travellers. Jersey Water provides free public access to its Val de la Mare site all year round, and the reservoir is open during daylight hours throughout every season. Because entry is completely free, it offers an attractive morning or afternoon outing without the need for advance ticketing or permits.

Regarding amenities, it is important to understand that Val de la Mare is maintained primarily as a quiet, natural conservation and water utility reserve rather than a commercial park. A portable toilet is available on site, conveniently located by the fisherman's hut. However, visitors should note that there are no general litter bins provided around the reservoir paths. For hygiene and environmental protection reasons, all guests must carry their rubbish away with them when departing. Leaving no trace ensures the water catchment and native flora remain pristine for everyone who follows.

Essential Visitor Regulations and Dog Guidelines

Because Val de la Mare Reservoir serves as an operational freshwater facility holding up to 938.7 megalitres of untreated water for the island, Jersey Water enforces clear safety and hygiene regulations to protect both public health and sensitive wildlife habitats. Familiarising yourself with these site rules ensures a safe, enjoyable visit while preserving the integrity of the surrounding landscape:

• Dog Walking Rules: Dogs are welcome along the trail network, but dogs must be kept on a lead at all times at Val de la Mare Reservoir. Under no circumstances are dogs allowed to enter the water. Handlers must promptly clean up after their pets and deposit all canine waste into the dedicated waste bin positioned at the reservoir entrance.
• Swimming and Water Safety: Swimming by visitors or their pets is prohibited in the reservoir. Entering the water presents severe risks due to deep sections, changing water levels, and submerged machinery, while keeping out of the water is essential for raw drinking water hygiene.
• Cycling Prohibitions: Cycling is prohibited around Val de la Mare Reservoir paths. The walking tracks are set aside entirely for pedestrian use to ensure visitor comfort and avoid damaging uneven natural surfaces.
• Angling Regulations: Fishing at Val de la Mare is restricted exclusively to members of the Jersey Freshwater Angling Association in designated locations. Casual, unlicensed, or unpermitted angling along the banks is strictly prohibited.
• Hazard Awareness: All visitors should stay on designated footpaths and exercise caution near steep, slippery slopes, unprotected heights, and deep water. Furthermore, there are no general litter bins along the paths, so visitors must carry all rubbish away.

Summary of Key Visitor Information

Making the Most of Your Excursion

A walk around Val de la Mare Reservoir provides an authentic glimpse into Jersey’s rich inland biodiversity and natural landscapes. Whether you are completing the full 2.8-mile circular walk, studying the northern hemisphere’s only seed-bearing Chinese swamp cypresses using the mobile tree map, or enjoying the serenity of the water in St Peter, the reserve offers an engaging retreat across every season. Remember to wear sturdy walking shoes, observe all safety guidelines near the water’s edge, keep your dog on a lead, and take all litter home to help preserve this cherished Jersey beauty spot for years to come.

Cover photo: Val De La Mare

By Alyssa.

Sources and further information

• Val de la Mare - Jersey Water
• Leisure - Jersey Water
• Val de la Mare Arboretum | Jersey Trees for Life
• Jersey Trees for Life launches online Val de la Mare tree map - Channel Eye

Sources checked: 2026-11-13.