Discovering the Isle of Man

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Those who live outside of the UK may not have heard of the Isle of Man, even those from the UK might not know what kind of beauty it has to offer. It may only be small but considering, there is so much to see and do across all points of the island. It is totally quirky and old fashioned, but somewhat refreshing to visit for a weekend break, since it has kept so many of its traditions alive.

It's small size makes it a very easy island to get around, meaning you can see most of it over a long weekend. You can either take a ferry or fly to the island, boats leaving from Heysham twice a day, and the same from Liverpool in the summer. You arrive in the main port in Douglas, the capital. Flights leave from most major cities in the UK and Ireland, and the island's airport is located in the south of the mainland, a mere 20 minutes drive from Douglas. It is often forgotten about when compared to the city breaks on offer 'across' (a term coined by the Manx to describe the UK). But visiting its lively villages and extensive coastlines will remind you of why the British Isles is still a prime place for discovery and rural beauty.

Douglas

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Starting with the island's capital, Douglas is located on a sweeping bay of two miles and is the island's primary hub for business and entertainment. Full of restaurants and other eateries, I have to say that the quality of food on the island is first class. They are in constant competition with each other thus the standard has to be extremely good. You can amble down the promenade and reach the very pretty quay, which is simply the best location to go out for a drink with friends. Head up to the view point to admire the town and bay illuminated at night.

Peel

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Located in the west of the island, is the very popular fishing port, Peel. One of my favourite locations, there are two great beaches, the remains of a castle, and numerous narrow streets in the old town. Due to its location, it is also the prime spot to watch sunsets, especially from Peel Hill. It is a thriving fishing port with a marine heritage that spans hundreds of years. Definitely enjoy one of the kipper baps from one of the kiosks on the promenade topped off with a Davidson's ice cream- the famous, delectable local ice cream.

Port Erin

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The views from Port Erin are some of the most beautiful that the island boasts. It is flanked by two cliffs, and aligned with colourful hotels and guest-houses. Take a walk up to Milner's Tower on Bradda Head to enjoy views of the surrounding rock formations. It also boasts a super family beach with a couple of watersport centres. And last but not least, the fish and chip shop there is out of this world. It is worth visiting for that alone!

Laxey

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A special treat is riding on the island's tram from Douglas to Laxey. Laxey is a bubble of activity in the summer, somewhat similar to a Cornish village. It is also home to the largest working water wheel in the world, an impressive red and white attraction situated amidst some vast green landscape. Heading from the tram station down the town, you will pass a quaint stream and reach a gorgeous sandy beach. On a pleasant day in the summer, you could be anywhere in the world. You can also find one of the many Manx Glens in Laxey, a sloped nature park always lush green and home to the local wildlife.

The Sound and Calf of Man

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The very southern tip of the island is a popular spot with many tourists with a café offering panoramic views across the sea. The waters around the area are full of wildlife, where you can often spot seals, dolphins and basking sharks. The Calf of Man, a rocky, uninhabited island of 618 acres, can be reached by boat during the summer season. The other large rocks in this area have in total four lighthouses, and are a haven for rare bird watching.

Snaefell

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Snaefell is the only mountain on the Isle of Man and one of the only places in the British Isles where you can see Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales on a clear day. You can even take the mountain railway up to the summit, and there is a café there. It only takes about 45 minutes to reach the top and is a brilliant spot for star gazing on a clear night. The Northern lights can also be seen from some points around the island if you are lucky enough.

TT

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If you're lucky enough, try and visit the island over the TT period. For two weeks in June, it hosts the most dangerous motorbike race in the world. The island is transformed and full of international tourists that sometimes cross continents for the competition. It is a great time to visit all the sites and meet people in the bustling cafes and bars. It is also quite exhilirating to sit on the side of the road and feel the extreme gush of wind after a bike has passed at over 100mph! There is a fair installed on Douglas promenade, a great beer tent, and lots of other motorbike events and shows which take place all over the island.

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