Recently I spent a few days on the Isle of Man courtesy of Isle of Man tourism to explore the heritage, culture and attractions of this hidden jewel. Imagine an island where ancient traditions, spectacular coastal scenery, fascinating history, iconic railways and warm Manx hospitality come together to create a truly memorable experience on a beautiful Island located between Ireland and the West Coast of England.
Our Brack Tours Isle of Man FAM Trip offered a wonderful introduction to this unique destination, combining some of the island’s best-known attractions with authentic local experiences, distinctive accommodation and plenty of opportunities to discover the island’s character and excellently hosted by Stuart Clague, Business Development Manager with Isle of Man Tourism.
Comfort & Manx Hospitality
Our journey began at the Comis Hotel, providing a comfortable base in Douglas, a beautiful 4 star Hotel with excellent offerings including a top Golf course, before an evening enjoying dinner and some traditional Manx folk music at The George Hotel in nearby Castletown.
The following night brought me to the Mannin Hotel; a 4 Star property ideally located in Douglas and perfectly placed for exploring more of the island. With beautifully appointed bedrooms, charming restaurant and bar it is very popular with groups visiting the island. Along the way, we also had the opportunity to visit and view a selection of other accommodation options, including the Ramsey Park Hotel, the Shore boutique hotel in Laxey, Groudle Glen Cottages and Baie Mooar Guesthouse and a big favourite of mind, the Shore Bar / Restaurant and accommodation in Port St Mary– all the afore mentioned giving us a valuable insight into the range of accommodation available for future visitors for group and FIT travel.
Step Into the Island of Man’s History
The Isle of Man has a fascinating story to tell, and our itinerary took me right into the heart of it.
From the Manx Museum and House of Manannan to the atmospheric Peel Castle, Knockaloe Internment Centre and historic Tynwald Hill, visitors can discover the island’s rich heritage and its distinctive Manx identity.
And there is plenty of living heritage too – including a visit to Ballacosnahan Farm, where we discover the unique Loaghtan sheep, before sampling local produce at the Manx Farm Shop and Robinson’s, a family run business which grew from its humble market roots into a leading Manx wholesaler and retailer of fresh food, flowers, and local produce, embracing sustainable Island life.
Railways, Mountains & Spectacular Scenery
For those who love scenic journeys, the island really delivers.
Travel aboard the Manx Electric Railway from Laxey to Ramsey, then follow it up with a visit to the Isle of Man Motor Museum, a hidden jewel for motor enthusiasts before continuing to discover more of the island’s beautiful north.
Then it’s time to head for the hills on the Snaefell Mountain Railway, offering one of the island’s signature experiences.
The railway experience continued on our final morning with the Isle of Man Steam Railway, travelling from Douglas to Port Erin in the southwest of the Island – a wonderful way to experience the island’s landscapes at a leisurely pace.
Taste the Isle of Man
Food, drink and local producers are also an important part of the journey as mentioned above.
Alongside lunches and dinners featuring local establishments, the itinerary includes a visit to Fynoderee Distillery, providing an opportunity to discover the island’s craft spirits and the story behind this Manx producer.
From Castles to Coastal Views
No visit to the Isle of Man would be complete without experiencing its spectacular coastline.
Our journey took us to Castle Rushen, one of the island’s great historic landmarks, before continuing to Cregneash Folk village and The Sound, a dramatic scenic strait at the southern tip of the island that separates the mainland from the small islet of the Calf of Man. The dramatic scenery here provides a fitting finale to our island adventure.
And before heading to the airport, there is even time for an ice cream stop in Port Erin, locally made of course – the perfect way to finish our Isle of Man experience!
Why the Isle of Man?
This is a destination that offers something genuinely different.
History. Heritage. Railways. Motor sport. Food. Local traditions. Mountains. Coastline. and above all, a strong sense of place.
For Brack Tours, this FAM trip was an opportunity to experience the destination first-hand and explore how the Isle of Man can be combined with Ireland to create exciting new touring possibilities for our customers. What stood out for me was the passion when chatting with locals, their heritage and ability to chat about their Celtic and Viking roots but above all their love of where they live.
The Isle of Man may be just a short journey away – but it feels like a world of discovery.
Come and discover the Isle of Man with Brack Tours.
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