ISLE OF MAN
Set in the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man is a unique destination with over 10,000 years of history. Its most famous symbols are the Manx cat and the island’s emblem, the three legs of Man whose meaning is "whichever way you throw me I stand". The island has its own currency, stamps, native tongue and miles of uncrowded beaches, enchanting glens and unspoilt countryside. The ancient Celts, Vikings and Christians left the island with a legacy of their lifetime and all around the island you will find evidence of these early settlers - Celtic crosses, medieval fortresses and Viking burial grounds. The Isle of Man is blessed with outstanding scenery and a more relaxed way of life.
The capital of the island, Douglas is very much the typical Victorian style seaside town with a curving row of impressive buildings arching along the Promenade. Although the capital is now a busy financial centre with thriving shops, cafes, bars and places of entertainment there are still many places of historic interest including the Tynwald buildings and the Gaiety Theatre.
Douglas is the starting point for the Steam and Electric Railway departing opposite ends of the Promenade and linked by horse trams which "clip clop" along the two miles of Douglas promenade - a reminder of days gone by. The steam railway has been meandering its way through the countryside since 1874 and travels from Douglas to Port Erin. The 17 mile electric tram railway travels from Douglas to Ramsey following the rugged eastern coast for much of its journey.
Not to be missed is a visit to the village of Laxey. Here you will find the impressive water wheel - the Lady Isabella.
A trip to the island's highest peak, Snafell, on the tram is well worthwhile. Its said that on a clear day you can see seven kingdoms from the top - the kingdoms of Man, England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland the sea on a really clear day , Heaven.
The Sigts
PORT ERIN The largest resort in the South and is popular holiday destination offering both hotel sand self catering accommodation. The promenade overlooks one of the most scenic bays on the island surrounded by the rugged coastline. A sandy beach that shelves very gently, which is superb for children, complements the bay.
PORT ST MARY - Just along the coast from Port Erin, Port St Mary also has a very good and safe beach for children.
PEEL - the ancient capital of the island retains a traditional atmosphere and sits prettily around its old harbour with Peel Castle on the hill above.
RAMSEY - a sleepy little harbour town tucked away in the north of the island and the end station for the electric tram.
The Walks
If you are a walker, or perhaps you used to be have forgotten the pleasure of 'putting your best foot forward' then the Isle of Man is exactly the island you have been looking for. Stunning coastal walks give views of spectacular cliff scenery covered in a profusion of flora and fauna. With 17 national glens, all with no admission charge, and a network of footpaths, the walker, rambler or even just the stroller can enjoy discovering the beauty of Man. The tourist board produces a number of local guides which have details of the best walks on the island, so you can plan your tour before you set off for the day.
The Food
The clear blue sea and beautiful countryside mean local produce is of the highest standard - lamb, crab, lobster, kippers (which are still naturally cured over oak chips) and real ales brewed like beer should be with no artificial ingredients. All around the island, cafes, restaurants, wine bars, town and country inns offer cuisines to suit all tastes whether its a quick snack or gourmet dinging. you'll also find locally produced ice creams, chocolate, mineral water and Manx Spirit.
Sports and Leisure
Whatever your sports, the island offers a host of excellent facilities and pursuits. The Isle of Man has eight superb golf courses, including Castletown Golf Links rated in the UK's top 100 courses. The island is, of course, renowned for world-famous motor cycle events both on and off the road.
Events
MANX INTERNATIONAL CAR RALLY
Two day event held every May is racing on some of Europe's fattest tarmac, covering 120 stage miles.
TT RACES
In 2007 the Isle of Man TT celebrated its Centenary. The best solo and sidecar road racers in the world raced over the 37 and three-quarter mile Snaefell Mountain Course, which outside of the racing period is open to everyday traffic. For two weeks of every year the eyes of the world focus on the Isle of Man – the jewel of the Irish Sea – as the finest road racers on the planet pit their skills against the 37? miles of public roads that form the TT circuit.
WALKING FESTIVAL - JUNE
Enjoy the best of Manx walking heritage with outstanding walks through dramatic scenery that compares favourably with any in the British Isles. Offering walks for everyone from guided tours of the towns, short leisurely explorations among the woodlands, national glens and riversides to more demanding hill and coastal walks.
TYNWALD DAY - 5th July
Manx National Day and public holiday. National service and open air reading of the laws in the in Manx and English from Tynwald Hill. Fair continues thorough the day. Evening fireworks displays in the evening.
MANX GRAND PRIX - AUGUST
Motorbike racing on the mountain circuit.
The Facts
Geography - Lying less than 60 miles off the coast of Lancashire, the Isle of Man is 33 miles long and 13 miles wide. Over 40% of its uninhabited.
Travelling Times - the Isle of Man is just a short flight from mainland UK and accessible from a wide range of regional airports or alternatively, you can travel by fast sea cat from Liverpool in around 2 1/2 hours or conventional ferry fro Heysham in around 4 hours.
Transfer times – travelling times from the airport to Douglas is around 20 minutes. For sea arrivals, the port is in Douglas just minutes from most town hotels. Transfers are not included in our packages although you may choose to pre book taxi transfers at a supplement.
Currency - The Isle of Man's currency is sterling. They do have their own coins and notes, although they are identical in size. UK Sterling is accepted in all shops, hotels etc although you may receive change in Manx Coins and notes which are not accepted in the UK!
