Cottages on the Isle of Man

Although not a very large island, the Isle of Man has a beautiful coastline and a mild climate that makes it well worth a holiday. You can stay in charming and peaceful cottages in the gentle uplands close to the island's main attractions. And if you're looking to get away from it all and seek inspiration, this island offers woodland areas with magical waterfalls and golden sandy beaches surrounded by rugged cliffs that are sure to make you feel energised and alive again.

Most of the island is hilly and mountainous, so you'll be able to enjoy rural scenery just a few steps from the door. However, cottages on the Isle of Man also offer views of ocean landscapes, depending on where you choose to stay. What we can assure you is that in all properties you'll find a fresh, clean, renovated space with state-of-the-art kitchens, terraces, skylights to let in natural light and sometimes saunas and hot tubs.

Family activities on the Isle of Man include a trip to Curraghs Wildlife Park in the village of Ballaugh. The place is a great distraction for children and adults alike. It is 26 acres and is home to around 100 species of wildlife from all over the world! You can have a close encounter with animals such as adorable red pandas, penguins, squirrel monkeys, meerkats, snakes, capybaras and more. Keep an eye out for the keeper who walks one of the owls on his arm and feeds the Humboldt penguins with fish. The park also has many marked trails to explore, a children's farm and a miniature railway.

If you love exploring the depths of the water, Discover Diving is the Isle of Man's premier diving and snorkelling centre. You can explore the beautiful coastline and meet the marine life by going on a Snorkelling Safari. The clear waters will show you a variety of creatures such as freshwater fish, crabs, starfish and even seals and some wrecks. The Isle of Man also offers other water activities such as sea kayaking which will give you a different way to see the nature of the island and coasteering, an activity that combines water and rock climbing.

The Isle of Man Steam Railway dining car is one of the few remaining of its kind in the world and is an iconic Victorian piece of Manx history. The dining carriage offers a cocktail bar and a list of 14 wines, as well as fine dining and desserts that will give you a unique experience. The current southern route will take you to the island's ideal sightseeing spots and you will also have the possibility to take your bike on the train to get off and explore the best scenery!

With almost 100 miles of coastline, the Isle of Man is a great place to explore by Segway. Take the popular Segway Safari and ride for an hour through the island's beautiful forests, admire the views, keep your balance and let the machine do all the hard work! This activity is suitable for all ages and is an exciting alternative way to get around. There are also other tours such as Castletown Beach, Peel and Douglas Promenade and many more.

The Snaefell Mountain Railway is a popular excursion for tourists on the Isle of Man. Snaefell is the highest peak on the island and is a 30 minute journey by rail. Between April and October take the Snaefell Electric Railway for a six kilometre journey between Laxey and the summit. See the views along the way and enjoy a meal at the summit station café. Alternatively, you can walk up to Snaefell by taking a 45-minute walk from Bungalow train station.

Founded in the early 16th century and home to 15 acres of vibrant gardens and woodland to explore. The Milntown estate is one of the most historic houses on the island and is reputed to be the most haunted building on the Isle of Man. Get up close to the mill pond and watch the adorable ducks. Visit the garden during spring to see the large camellia and rhododendrons. The café is also a great place to hang out overlooking the estate's walled garden which offers a riot of colour.

Explore four of the island's towns in a unique way on the Isle of Man Ghost Tours. Pass through Douglas and delve into haunted hotels, graveyards and the old hospital haunted by the spirit of a nurse. In Ramsey, in the north of the island, hear tales of the haunted Gibbs of the Grove shop and a haunted ship. Then in the town of Peel explore the Castle and walk through the town's dark alleys to hear the story of a haunted school. Finally, in Castletown, immerse yourself in the story of the last Manx witch burnt at the stake.

Located in the south of the island, head to Ape Mann Adventure Park. The adventure park offers a low ropes course for children and adults, and a high ropes course for the more adventurous. Enjoy outdoor activities, zip line and balance on the wooden suspension bridges and experience one of the UK's highest sets of climbing equipment on the monkey tree! You will have great views from the top.

The Great Laxey Wheel, also known as the Lady Isabella, is the largest working waterwheel in the world! It is 22.1 metres high and was built in 1854 to pump water from the wells of the Laxey lead mines. This heritage site is located in the centre of Laxey town centre so you can see it by taking the Snaefell electric tram.