For me, winter is the best time to get outside and explore. There’s something about the crisp air that just make me feel alive. And while some people might prefer to hunker down indoors during the colder months, I believe there’s no reason you can’t stay active and well outside in winter.

Living in the Channel Islands, I’m lucky enough to access some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Even on the coldest days, you can find me walking along the shore, admiring the crashing waves and enjoying the fresh air.

But if beaches aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other outdoor activities that you can enjoy in winter.

What Can One Do Outside In The Winter To Stay Well When Visiting The Channel Islands?

If you are thinking of visiting the Channel Islands in the winter or are simply looking for some inspiration on staying well during the colder months, here are my top recommendations on winter fitness and wellness.

Caving

One of my favourite things to do in winter is going caving. There are some amazing caves to explore on the Channel Islands, and it’s a great way to get moving and stay active. Not to mention, you’ll be able to appreciate the beauty of nature while getting a workout in simultaneously.

What makes it great, even in winter, is that many of the caves are warmer than the outside temperature. So if you’re looking to escape the cold for a bit, caving is a great option.

My recommendation: La Cotte de St Brelade Cave

I suggest the La Cotte de St Brelade Cave on Jersey island. This particular cave is known for its stunning stalagmites and stalactites and is definitely worth a visit.

This site is popular because of its rich 250,000 years of human history. Neanderthal fossils and artefacts have been found in the cave, making it a great place to explore if you’re interested in learning more about our ancestors.

Cycling

Cycling is another excellent way to stay active in winter, and there are plenty of beautiful routes to take on the Channel Islands. So whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or something more challenging, you’ll be able to find a route that’s perfect for you.

One of the great things about cycling is that it’s a low-impact activity, so it’s gentle on your joints. And if you dress appropriately, you can stay warm and comfortable even on the coldest days.

My recommendation: Guernsey

Guernsey is a cyclists’ paradise, with over 200 miles of cycle routes to explore. And since the island is relatively flat, it’s perfect for those just getting started with cycling.

There are plenty of great places to stop and rest along the way, so you can take your time and enjoy the scenery. And if you get hungry, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can refuel.

I recommend checking out some of the Cycle Routes on Guernsey’s website. They have a great selection of easy and challenging routes that are perfect for exploring the island.

Winter Climbing

Rock climbing is another great way to stay active in winter, and the Channel Islands offer some great options. There are plenty of cliffs and rocks to explore, and you can find routes that range from easy to complex.

You can choose between Jersey or Guernsey, depending on your preference. Although Jersey is a top choice with climbers, Guernsey also has some great options because, despite being a smaller island, there is still a lot to offer in terms of cliffs and rocks.

My recommendation: Jersey

If you’re looking for a great place to rock climb, I recommend Jersey. This island has some of the best cliffs and rocks in the Channel Islands, and there are routes to suit all levels of climbers.

One specific cliff is Noirmont Point, Jersey.

If you’re looking for a great place to climb on Jersey, I recommend Noirmont Point. This site is popular with both beginner and experienced climbers, and there are plenty of routes to choose from.

And if you need help getting started, plenty of great instructors can help you. Jersey is a great place to learn how to rock climb, and you’ll be able to find all the gear you need on the island.

I would recommend checking out the Jersey tourism website for more information on rock climbing and other activities on the island.

Winter Swimming

Swimming is a great way to stay active in winter, and the Channel Islands offer some great options. There are plenty of beaches and pools to choose from, and you can find routes that range from easy to complex.

Most people are surprised at how much they enjoy winter swimming once they try it.

It’s a great way to clear your head and get some exercise, even when it’s cold outside. In fact, swimming in the winter is not that different from swimming in the summer. The main difference is that you must be prepared for cold water.

My recommendation: the English Channel off the coast of Jersey

Swimming in the winter here is, in fact, totally regular here. And it’s a great way to get some exercise, even when it’s cold outside. Just be sure to be prepared to ‘dress’ for the cold water with accessories (neoprene gloves & socks, wetsuit, thermal caps, earplugs etc.)

You will be delighted to know of its long stretch of 48 miles of stunning coastlines and clean, clear waters. This place is a haven for swimmers worldwide and welcomes anyone who wants to try their hand (or legs) at winter swimming.

Hiking

Hiking is another great way to get outside and stay active in winter. And on the Channel Islands, there are plenty of trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.

Just make sure to dress appropriately, as the weather can be unpredictable. And be sure to pack plenty of food and water, as there are often few places to stop along the way.

My recommendation: Sark

If you’re looking for a truly unique hiking experience, I recommend visiting Sark. This small island is only accessible by boat, and it’s known for its stunning landscapes 😉

Sark is known as the “jewel of the Channel Islands”, and it’s easy to see why. The island is covered in wildflowers, and there are plenty of great trails to explore.

There are over 24 miles of hiking trails to explore, and you’ll be able to see some fantastic views along the way. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be challenging.

I would recommend checking out the Sark Tourism website for more information on hiking trails and other activities on the island.

Joining A Winter Running Group

If you struggle to find the motivation to run independently, joining a group can be a great solution. There are plenty of running groups in the Channel Islands, and they cater to all levels of runners.

You can find groups that meet regularly for runs, and you can also find groups that compete in races. So if you’re looking for a competitive edge, joining a racing group is a great option.

There are also plenty of running social groups, which are a great way to meet new people and explore the island.

My recommendation: Jersey Spartans

If you’re looking for a group to join, I would recommend the Jersey Spartans. They’re a great group of people who are passionate about running and have a lot of experience with training in the winter.

The Jersey Spartans offer various training options, so you can find one that’s right for you. They also offer races and events throughout the year, so you can test your skills and see how much you’ve improved.

I recommend checking out the Jersey Spartans website for more information on their training options and upcoming events. It would also be wise to ask them about one-off training and events for those visiting the island.

Coasteering

Coasteering is a great way to explore the coast and is a popular activity in the Channel Islands. It involves swimming, climbing, and jumping off cliffs into the sea.

It’s an adrenaline-pumping activity that’s perfect for those looking for a thrill. And it’s a great way to see the coast from a different perspective.

My recommendation: Greve De Lecq

Greve de Lecq is a great place to go coasteering, and it’s one of the most popular spots on the island. The cliffs here are perfect for climbing, and there are plenty of places to jump into the sea.

With jumps as high as 35 ft, this activity is not for the faint-hearted. But if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, coasteering at Greve de Lecq is an excellent option. This choice is quite famous for those looking for a thrill.

You can find all the gear you need for coasteering on the island, and plenty of companies offer guided tours. I would recommend checking out the Jersey Tourism website for more information on coasteering and other activities on the island.

Kayak Tours

Kayak tours are said to be one of the best ways to see the island’s dramatic coastline up close, and what better way to work up a sweat in the fresh sea air than by paddling your way around?

My recommendation:Jersey Adventure activity company

If you’re looking for a company that offers kayak tours, I recommend the Jersey Adventure activity company. They offer a range of different kayak tours, and they cater to all levels of kayakers.

Jersey Adventure activity company offers kayak tours around the island and tours to other islands in the Channel Islands. They’re a great company and have a lot of experience with kayaking in the area.

Top Tips When Doing Outdoor Fitness Activities In The Channel Islands During Winter

Dress in layers

One of the most important things to remember when doing outdoor fitness activities in the winter is to dress in layers. This will help you to stay warm, and it will also prevent you from overheating.

Wear proper footwear

It’s also important to wear proper footwear when doing outdoor fitness activities in the winter. Again, this is because you want to ensure that your feet are protected from the cold and the wet.

Many types of footwear are available, so you should find something comfortable that keeps your feet warm.

ALWAYS Bring a towel

It’s always a good idea to bring a towel with you when doing outdoor fitness activities in the winter. This is because you never know when you might need to dry off, and a towel will come in handy.

ALWAYS Bring a water bottle

It’s also essential to bring a water bottle with you when doing outdoor fitness activities in the winter. This is because you need to ensure that you stay hydrated, and water is the best way to do this.

Getting there and back

When doing outdoor fitness activities in the winter, it’s essential to think about how you will get there and back. This is because you don’t want to walk too far in the cold.

If possible, try to find a place close to where you’re staying. This way, you won’t have to walk too far in the cold weather.

Final Thoughts

The winter months may be more relaxed, but that doesn’t mean you have to put your fitness regime on hold.

For those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land, there are plenty of walks to enjoy on the islands.

There are a lot of different outdoor fitness activities you can do in the winter, and the Channel Islands is a great place to do them. There are plenty of activities to choose from, and there’s something for everyone.

So, whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or just want to enjoy the fresh air, the Channel Islands is the perfect place.

And most importantly, have fun!