Isle of Man Beauty Spots: Winter Edition

Posted on December 6, 2021 by Isle of Man Steam Packet Co.

The Isle of Man’s diverse and spectacular scenery is able to astound visitors across all seasons, but in winter the stunning coastline, spectacular cliff faces and rolling hills come to life with a dramatic array of cool colours – making it the perfect setting for a scenic winter getaway.

Here are some of our top picks and must-visit beauty spots on a winter break in the Isle of Man.

North Barrule

At more than 1,800 metres high, North Barrule is the second largest summit in the Isle of Man. Located in the north of the Island, this challenging peak is well worth the steep hike with panoramic views across the Isle of Man and beyond – you can even catch a glimpse of Welsh, Cumbrian and Scottish coastlines on a clear day. In the winter months the wind can be fierce as you near the top, so be sure to wrap up.

Views of the Isle of Man from the top of North Barulle with a man in the foreground

Crank ny Merriu, Santon

This defensive promontory fort overlooking Port Grenaugh is not only steeped in history, but is also a stunning Manx beauty spot. Wrap up warm and enjoy a wintery wander and spectacular views of the surrounding coastline.

Three people wrapped up in coats on the Isle of Man coastline

Jurby Beach, Jurby

Jurby Beach on a crisp and clear winter’s day is a real treat. Located on the remote north western tip of the Island, it’s a great spot for a coastal walk with miles of sandy beach and cliff face to enjoy. Visit at low tide for a special treat; an historic shipwreck dating all the way back to a dark and stormy night in 1931.

Blue winter skies with the sea washing up against the shoreline and cliffs in the background

South Barrule

For spectacular views of the south of the Island and beyond, enjoy a walk up South Barrule on a cool winter’s morning. Rising to nearly 1,600 feet, it is a fairly steady climb which takes around 30 minutes. For the best views, tackle it on a clear day.

Green and purple landscape with blue sky and some white clouds

Great Laxey Wheel, Laxey

The Great Laxey Wheel, or Lady Isabella as she is affectionately known, is the largest surviving water wheel in the world. While the site is currently closed to visitors and not due to open again until summer 2022, her Victorian grandeur can be taken in from a number of different vantage points in Laxey and is well worth a look.

The red Laxey Wheel on a winters dayt with snow on the ground and a blue sky

Fenella Beach, Peel

This small sheltered cove in Peel on the west coast of the Island is popular all-year round. With the ancient fortress of Peel Castle as a dramatic backdrop, it’s not hard to understand why. If you’re enjoying a visit on a windswept day, pick up some fish and chips and a hot chocolate and watch the waves crash against the shore from the comfort of your car.

Bradda Head, Port Erin

Located in the south of the Island, this rugged headland overlooking Port Erin Bay is truly stunning. Home to Milner’s Tower, it offers breathtaking coastal scenery and is well worth a trip when dramatic winter skies are in place.

A tower in Port Erin overlooking the bay on a sunny day

Northern Lights, Ballaugh Beach

Home to 26 Dark Sky Discovery Sites, the Isle of Man boasts spectacular opportunities for stargazing with the Island’s low light pollution providing some of the purest skies in the British Isles. The dark nights of winter offer the best time to marvel at the stars and Ballaugh Beach – one of the Island’s Dark Sky Discovery Spots on the north west coast – is a must. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights!