Island Adventures – The Isle of Man
The Isle of Man, also known as the motor-racing capital of the world, is a wonderful holiday destination with plenty to uncover and explore – including dark skies and wild wallabies!
Designated a UNESCO world biosphere reserve, it’s perfect for holiday makers, nature lovers and walkers. With 18 national glens and a 100 mile scenic coastal path you won’t be short of wonderful days out.
For something really special visit the Ballaugh Curragh Wetland which is home to wild wallabies. These animals, native to Australia and Tasmania, have been flourishing since the 1970s when a pair escaped from a wildlife park.
Normally confined to the north of the island they have now been seen grazing and foraging in the south. There’s thought to be over 100 of these amazing marsupials, and they’re very special to spot in the wild!
For those with a real taste for adventure, you’ve certainly come to the right place; mountainous trails, long distance footpaths and a stunning coastline means there is something around every corner.
There are companies specialising in coasteering and sea kayaking where you’ll see imposing cliffs, caves and a diverse collection of marine birds and animals, including the Manx shearwater and grey seals.
For those who want to stay a while in June there is the famous ‘Round the Island Yacht Race’. On land try gorge scrambling, rock climbing, abseiling, bush craft, navigation and survival experiences.
Less extreme options include clay pigeon shooting or even a round of golf on one of the island’s nine scenic golf courses. Try a Segway tour where you can set off on two wheels, once you’ve got the knack, along the promenade, off road or along the beach. The whole idyllic island is an amazing landscape to explore and suitable for all fitness levels.
History lovers will find plenty packed onto the island’s 221 square miles, including Castle Rushen, the Great Laxey Wheel and a Victorian steam railway. There are heritage sites and interactive museums where you can discover more than 100,000 years of Celtic and Viking Manx history.
The lack of light pollution also makes it perfect for some serious stargazing. You can choose from 26 dark sky discovery sites, and from the North coast you can sometimes see the spectacular Northern Lights.
A few more points of interest:
- The island’s capital is Douglas. From here you can catch an electric tram to Laxey and Ramsey.
- Although Tynwald Hill, a four tiered hill, is a popular tourist destination, the highest point is Snaefell at 621 metres with panoramic views of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
- From Bradda Glen you can walk to Milner’s Tower, a tribute to local philanthropist William Milner’s work to help the once poor of Port Erin and the Manx fishermen.
- Make sure you fit in a visit to the atmospheric and beautiful Dhoon Glen where the island’s highest waterfall tumbles down towards the coast.
Find holiday homes in the Isle of Man.
