Credit: Visit Isle of Man
The Isle of Man is the backdrop for some of the most exhilarating activities in the British Isles. While the Island may have a reputation for its relaxed approach to life, even the biggest adrenaline junkies will find something to get their pulses raising here.
Day 1
Start your first day on the Isle of Man with a revitalising walk along a section of the Raad ny Foillan, the Island’s premier long distance footpath. At almost 160 km, it means that you can walk round an entire nation! We recommend the section between Niarbyl and Peel, giving you the opportunity to explore the beautiful Glen Maye with its rushing river and pebbly beach. Some of our other favourite sections can be found here. Alternatively, you can go on a guided walk with one of the Island’s experienced providers.
Once you arrive in the picturesque seaside town of Peel, grab yourself some food from one of the much-loved restaurants, cafes, or takeaways. A winning combination is eating The Cod and Castle’s fish and chips atop Peel Hill, overlooking the impressive 11th century Peel Castle. If you decide to walk a little further, the Peel Hill loop will take you up to Corrin’s Folly and provide you with a breath-taking view! If you fancy something a little more fancy, head to Manx Menu winning restaurant The Boatyard for a delicious meal, the queenie pancakes are unbeaten.
Next, make your way to South Barrule Forest, a haven for adventure lovers! The forest has facilities to suit every kind of adventurer, offering quad biking with Quad Bike Mania, axe throwing with Axe Throwing Isle of Man, mountain biking trails, walking trails, laser tag at Laser Mayhem, and climbing at Ape Mann Adventure Park. If you’re interested in biking but aren’t able to bring any kit with you, you can hire bikes and equipment from a number of different providers, as well as partake in their variety of tours. Once you’ve finished your activities amidst the luscious woodland, head to the forest’s Coffee Cottage for a drink and/or snack, we recommend the hot chocolate!
In the evening, head to Mad Jack’s Axe Throwing, located beside the bustling North Quay. Here, you can enjoy an evening of entertainment after being trained by one of the Mad Jack’s ‘axperts’, pardon the pun. Alongside axe throwing, you can bag yourself a tasty meal and drinks from one of the popular establishments on North Quay; JUST Pizza & Pasta, Mrs Yang’s, The Barbary Coast Grill & Bar, Kiki Lounge, Little Fish Cafe, and 14 North are all great options.
Day 2
Begin your second day with a dip at one of the Island’s stunning beaches, we recommend Chapel Beach in Port St Mary or Port Erin Beach. If you’d rather bathe in fresh water, why not try a swim at Spooyt Vane Waterfall, located in the dreamy Glen Mooar. You can also try your hand at numerous watersports! Many are offered at Port Erin and Port St Mary, including; paddleboarding, aqua biking, windsurfing, kayaking, diving, and sailing.
After all that exertion, you’ll be feeling hungry! Head to Port Erin’s Foraging Vintners Craft Winery for a refreshing beverage (try their variety of non-grape sparkling wines!) and BBQ food from Smoky Sam’s, which operates on the premises. Alternatively, head to Byron’s for a fresh pizza.
Next, hop on a invigorating trike tour and be treated to exquisite scenery as you whizz around the Island! The drivers are full of knowledge about the Isle of Man and can tailor tours to your specific interests, or you can go on one of their pre-planned tours. One of our favourites is the TT Taster Tour, giving you a taste of what the TT riders experience on the infamous course, although you’ll be going at a much more sensible speed! If motors aren’t your thing, why not go on a pony trek through the gorgeous Manx countryside with Ballahimmin Riding and Pony Trekking Centre, taking in the unrivalled views on horseback.
In the evening, why not enjoy something to eat at one of the lovely restaurants in the south; The Shore Gansey, Kellas, or Kizuna. Follow this up with a sunset walk, we’d suggest walking along Gansey Beach and the Port St Mary Promenade Walk, through Bradda Glen to Milner’s Tower, or along Castletown Beach and onto Derbyhaven Beach. Alternatively, you can have a go at Twilight-Glo Paddleboarding in Port Erin with Port Erin Paddleboards.
For more ideas on how to spend your time on the Isle of Man, check out our other itineraries here.