Take a walk on the wild side this autumn and discover the Extraordinary Story of the Isle of Man, the first entire nation in the world to be recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. A proud testament to the richness and scope of the Island’s awe-inspiring nature, its ancient and compelling history and the vibrancy of its culture.

Just a hassle free sail away, or a short flight from across the UK, you can feel a world away, so close to home.

Best known for its remarkable 160km coastline, the Isle of Man also boasts myriad other natural habitats, including grassland, wetland, woodland and glens, all home to a diversity of wildlife.

Wildlife Viewing Spots

From magnificent marine creatures to a huge population of visiting and migrant birds, you’ll find it all in the Isle of Man! The Isle of Man has an excellent number of vantage points where you can spot wildlife in their natural habitats – whether that’s in the serene countryside or the extensive coastline. If you’re lucky, you might even spot wild wallabies at the Curraghs in the north of the Island!

A wild wallaby sitting in the swampland at the Curraghs on the Isle of Man

If its marine life you’re after, make sure you visit The Sound at the Island's southern tip. Here you are almost guaranteed to see a large population of grey seals. A boat trip may reward you with sightings of the dolphins, whales and basking sharks that inhabit Manx waters.

A grey seal basking on a rock around the south coast of the Isle of Man

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Nature Reserves & Garden Estates

Manx Wildlife Trust looks after an impressive 24 nature reserves across the island, from the orchid-rich wildflower meadows of Close Sartfield, Ballaugh, to the dunes, heathland and shingle beaches along The Ayres Nature Trail.

A scenic landscape picture of the Ayres Nature Trail on the Isle of Man

The Scarlett Nature Trail offers outstanding views of coastal scenery, spectacular limestone and volcanic rock formations, wildflowers and plenty of birdlife, an exhilarating walk in any season.

A couple sat on some rocks at Scarlett with binoculars looking through binoculars at nearby wildlife on the Isle of Man

The historic Milntown Estate and Gardens offers 15 acres to explore, packed full of horticultural wonders. In 2020 the Milntown Estate was awarded the prestigious honour of becoming the Island’s first garden to be a Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Partner Garden.

An aerial shot of a couple walking through the beautiful gardens at Milntown Estate on the Isle of Man

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Walk the Isle of Man

Enjoying the Island’s walks can often be the best way to catch a glimpse of the varied wildlife, hugging the coastline or taking you through the breath-taking uplands.

Rugged cliffs, rolling hills, picturesque glens, hidden coves and panoramic views. These are just a few of the reasons why the Isle of Man is a walker's delight. Whether you enjoy a gentle stroll or a challenging hike, there’s a range of footpaths and trails to choose.

A group of walkers descending down a summit on the Isle of Man with their backs to the camera

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