A visit to the island is an absolute must for any nature lover. Whether you love beaches, hills, cliffs, or forests, the Isle of Man has it and does it well. My town of Port Erin in the south is home to my favourite beach, a promenade dappled with cafès, and an iconic Italian takeaway that’s more like a second home. In the summer, it feels like living on holiday (as long as you can look past the temperature of the sea).
Going further south along a dramatic coastal footpath takes you to the Sound, an iconic spot at the southernmost point of the island. There you’ll find a gorgeous cafe and a plethora of wildlife. It's the perfect place to sit and watch dramatic winter waves or see seals lying in the sun.
It's the perfect place to sit and watch dramatic winter waves or see seals lying in the sun.
Heading up to the west, however, you’ll come to Peel, a quaint town with narrow, cobbled streets. If you’re into history, Peel castle or the House of Mannanan are the best places to discover the Viking heritage of the Isle of Man and learn about Manx folklore. If you prefer relaxing in the sun, Fenella beach is covered almost entirely in scallop shells and boasts crystal-clear water, perfect for a sunny afternoon.
One of the best things to do on the island is swim, and there are gorgeous spots everywhere to have a dip. Port Cornaa is my favourite spot — a glen with a deep natural pool surrounded by forestry and waterfalls. After a swim and a walk, head to Laxey to grab a fruit crumble and a coffee and sit by the sea, or people watch on the promenade. There are countless other glens and beaches scattered around, and exploring them with a good amount of snacks is the best way to spend a day, in my opinion.
The Isle of Man might be known for motorsports and cats without tails, but it’s got so much more to offer than just that. I know I’ll always love going home, and I’ll never stop telling people to visit and see it for themselves!