Man and nature exist in harmony on the Isle of
Man; in 2016 UNESCO awarded the island 'biosphere reserve status'
in recognition of a unique balance between the people and their
surroundings.
More than 250 historical sites stand in contrast
with beautiful valleys, dramatic coastline, and the island's
highest point, Snaefell. The legend goes that visitors who reach
the summit can see six kingdoms; Mann, Scotland, England, Ireland,
Wales, and Heaven.
Early Celtic influences have given the island a
distinctive culture of music, language, and dance, celebrated in
the annual summer festival of Yn Chruinnaght. Subsequent occupation
by the likes of Norway, Scotland, and England could not dampen an
independent streak, and today the island is a self-governing
dependency of the British Crown.
There are direct flights from numerous airports in
the UK and Ireland. Ferries arrive in Douglas, the capital, from
Heysham, Liverpool, Belfast, and Dublin. There are regular bus and
steam train services from the airport to Castletown and Douglas,
and even a horse tram service dating back to 1876. The 'Go Explore'
smartcard covers all bus, rail and horse tram services. The Isle of
Man may be a little off the beaten tourist track, but its status as
an offshore financial centre and low-tax economy makes it a popular
business destination.
For many, the island is synonymous with
motorbikes. The Isle of Man Tourist Trophy has become the most
famous motorcycle event in the world. This festival of motorcycling
culture is part of the fabric of the island, attracting a huge
following in May/June each year. However, for those looking to
avoid the fumes and noise of the TT, there are attractions
aplenty.
Visitors can explore the remarkably well-preserved
13th century Castle Rushen in Castletown, and get an insight into
the lifestyles of traditional Manx 'crofting' farmers in the
Cregneash Village Folk Museum. Douglas, the Victorian seaside
capital, is home to a variety of different museums. The train
between Douglas and Ramsey stops at the lovely village of Laxey,
home to the Great Laxey Wheel, the largest water pumping wheel in
the world.
Adventurous souls can explore the Raad ny Foillan
hiking trail, a 95 mile (150km) footpath hugging the coast, or
visit the Calf of Man, a tiny island just off the south corner of
the Isle of Man, which has been a bird sanctuary since 1939.
Ancient, unique, and independent, the island will richly reward the
curious traveller.