Sail to the Beautiful Isle of Man
Situated within easy reach of the UK and Ireland, just a short ferry journey away, the Isle of Man is one of the British Isles’ best-kept secrets. Travel with us and you will sail into the heart of the Island’s capital, Douglas.
The spectacular scenery, from striking cliff faces and sandy beaches to picturesque glens and rolling hills, offers the perfect setting for a fantastic getaway and a whole world of new experiences. The Island packs a lot in; a rich history and proud heritage, wonderful walking and cycling routes, a fascinating sporting background, spectacular countryside, action-packed experiences and mouth-watering local produce.
With the freedom to travel by foot or take your car, motorbike or bicycle when you sail with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, you can set your own itinerary and go where you want, whenever you choose. Whether you opt for a short break or longer holiday, the Manx holiday experience can be tailored to you.
HISTORY & HERITAGE
The Isle of Man has a unique and varied heritage, which is as evident today as it was thousands of years ago. Visitors are able to step back in time and retrace the Island’s history by taking the Manx National Heritage trail and visiting some of the Island’s most iconic sites. From the magnificent medieval castle, Castle Rushen, to the splendour of the world’s largest working water wheel, the Great Laxey Wheel, it is easy to spend hours getting lost while you discover the Isle of Man’s captivating past.
The Isle of Man boasts three heritage railways which will transport you to your chosen destination in style – the Isle of Man’s Steam Railway, Manx Electric Railway and Snaefell Mountain Railway. Whether you choose to travel by steam or electric you’ll find all three railways preserved in time and operating with some original rolling stock.
A WALKERS PARADISE
Whether you want to pull on your walking boots and hike into the hills or just enjoy a gentle stroll through the countryside with the family, the Isle of Man has plenty of paths for you to explore.
The Raad Ny Foillan, Manx Gaelic for ‘The Way of the Gull’, is an almost 100-mile (160 km) coastal footpath created in 1986 to mark the Island’s ‘Heritage Year’ celebrations. Forming a complete loop of the Manx coastline and passing through varying terrain from shingle beaches to 600 feet hills and cliffs, it is perfect for those seeking a challenge. It doesn’t need to be tackled all at once either, break it down into smaller stages and enjoy the beautiful coastal surroundings at your own pace.
LEGENDARY ROADS
The Isle of Man boasts a global reputation for exhilarating motorsport events including the famous TT Races, Manx Grand Prix and Classic TT, which attract visitors from all corners of the globe.
Take advantage of one of our fantastic Motorbike Offers and enjoy a trip to the road-racing capital of the world outside of these events. You can follow the tyre tracks of your heroes and tour the 37.73-mile of public roads that make up the iconic TT Mountain course in quieter times, stopping off to see the famous landmarks where motorcycle history has been made.
NATURAL WONDERS
The Island is blessed with a stunning and varied landscape comprising lush valleys, rolling hills, sandy beaches and wooded glens, which are home to a diverse variety of local wildlife.
A visit to the Island’s official British Bird Observatory on the Calf of Man, where a range of interesting resident and migrant birds live, is a must for keen birdwatchers. It is also a hotspot for the Island’s seal population, who are often found basking on the surrounding rocks.
The Isle of Man has also been increasingly recognised for its clear waters and varied marine life dolphins, whales, seals and basking sharks. Who knows what you might spot on a visit to the Manx coast!
ADVENTURE
The Isle of Man is ideal if you fancy doing something that will really get the heart pumping. Kayaking, gorge walking, rock climbing, coasteering and paddleboarding are all popular activities which are sure to put a smile on your face.
Thanks to its diverse terrain, the Island is also a popular destination with cyclists of all abilities. Bring your bicycle – free when you travel by ferry – and ride the roads where Olympic gold medallist Peter Kennaugh and Tour de France great Mark Cavendish honed their skills, or go off road to explore mountain bike trails which criss-cross the Manx countryside.
REST & REFUEL
After all the fresh air and activity, you will need somewhere to eat and somewhere to rest.
There are cafes, pubs, bars and restaurants to suit all tastes, with menus bursting with fresh local produce. From Manx cheeses, smoked kippers and locally reared Loaghtan lamb to succulent queen scallops – or ‘Queenies’ as they are more commonly known – and a wonderful variety of sweet treats, you won’t be disappointed. You can also enjoy beer and cider from local breweries, Isle of Man-made juices and locally distilled gin.
When it comes to somewhere to stay, the Island has an extensive range of accommodation to suit your needs. Whether you choose one of the many hotels, guesthouses, apartments, cosy cottages, campsites or more unique glamping facilities on the Island, you’ll be sure to receive a warm Manx welcome. Set your own itinerary or get a helping hand from our tour operator, Steam Packet Holidays.
GETTING HERE
The Steam Packet Company sails to the Isle of Man year-round from Heysham and seasonally from Liverpool, Belfast and Dublin. Enjoy the convenience of bringing your car on board and pack everything you need for your adventure on the Isle of Man; be it your bicycles, walking gear or even the family pet!
Be sure to take advantage of one of our fantastic Special Offers. Start planning your break to the Isle of Man by ferry today at www.steam-packet.com