09 May

Slow down on the Isle of Man

Not far from the Scottish coast, framed by England and Northern Ireland, is the Isle of Man, in the middle of the Irish Sea. It can be described in many different ways, from wild and romantic to traditional to adventurous. But how this island really is, everyone has to decide for themselves.

In the months of May or June the island is no longer as peaceful as the world's most dangerous motorcycle race takes place around the island - the so-called Isle of Mann TT Races. Whoever comes to the island is first confronted with the special status. Because it belongs neither to the EU nor to Great Britain. She has a special position and is subordinated to the British Crown. You can even show your own currency with it. Another advantage that many tourists, but also "mainland British" use, is that alcohol is cheaper and you can spend the cozy evenings in the pub enjoying drinks without having to dig deep into your pockets.

As soon as you arrive, for example at Castledown Airport, you can immerse yourself in the special flair of the island and take a museum train to the capital, Douglas. The Isle of Man Steam Railway puffs its way over 15 kilometers through lush green meadows. Once in Douglas, the picturesque Yachthaden, located directly on a cliff, invites you to take a stroll along the Loch Promenade, where you can also take a horse-drawn tram past Victorian houses for over 2 kilometers. From Douglas you can wonderfully discover the surrounding area.

On the one hand, the island is known for its wonderful beaches, be they stone or sand. From here you can watch seals or dolphins as they turn their lanes. Sometimes even sharks. Both anglers and divers are enthusiastic about the island. But also as a hiker you get your money's worth and can go on wonderful day tours. Due to the seclusion, you will be overwhelmed by the starry sky at night.

There is another historic train on the Isle of Man. The Manx Electric Railway runs from Laxey towards Ramsey. Before getting on the train, it is worth taking a short detour to the largest water wheel still in operation in Laxey. From the Manx Electric Railway there is the possibility to change to another train and then go from there to the highest mountain on the island. Even if the temperatures are barely there, its name heralds somewhat colder temperatures - the Snaefell, which means snow mountain in German. Due to the Gulf Stream, the weather is very mild all year round. Legend has it that the six kingdoms, namely the Isle of Man, Scotland, England, Ireland, Wales and the sky can be seen from there when the weather is nice. In the end, you can expect a breathtaking view from here.

If you're visiting the Isle of Man with the family, there are plenty of family-friendly options to look forward to. The Mooragh Park in Ramsey offers the opportunity to sail or paddle on the lake, try out your skills on a very special golf course or at night at certain places, the Dark Skies Site, to watch the night sky. In the west of the island, Peel attracts tourists with its unique nature. Anyone interested in history will feel particularly at home in the House of Manannan. But the small cafés are also particularly quaint. If the weather permits, you can spend a day in Port Erin on the beautiful sandy beach, which is hidden between the high rocks and cliffs. Port St Mary is just as beautiful to look at.

Those who like to hike can choose Port Erin as their starting point and make their way to Bradda Glen, a nearby mountain valley. The Isle of Man Steam Railway is also on this route, with which you could return to Douglas, among other places. The hiking trail, the Raad Ny Foillan, would take a total of 161 kilometers along the coast around the entire island,

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