1: Raad Daawheeyl

About

Grade: Difficult/Strenuous

Distance: 91.3 miles

Start & Finish: Old Market Hall, Douglas

This demanding but rewarding route takes you out of the Island's capital and into the tranquil surrounding countryside.

You can start the route by crossing the bridge onto South Quay and making your way to the top of Douglas Head for a superb view of the bay. A ride along the scenic Marine drive will reward you with breath taking views as you make your way south towards the Island's former capital, Castletown. In Castletown, be sure to explore the medieval Castle Rushen and stop for some refreshments.

From here you can take the road to Port St Mary then onto Howe Road which will descend to the Island's most southern tip with panoramic sea views. Arrive at the Sound and Calf of Man, one of our natural wonders, abundant in wildlife and considered one of the most scenic places in the British Isles.

From the Sound, make your way through Port Erin and start your climb to the top of the Sloc known as the Round Table. As you descend and continue along the coastal road to Dalby, be sure to take in the far reaching views of Niarbyl. Take a detour to visit the secluded beauty spot of Niarbyl, a place of great geological importance and also a peaceful bay with its rolling hills and thatched cottages. From here make your way back onto the main road which will lead you to the sunset city of Peel.

Be sure to explore Peel, which is home to a castle, museums before taking the Ramsey Road through to Kirk Michael and up to the coast Road to Jurby which is a good stop for a refreshment. From here it’s a smooth journey passing a choice of nature reserves on remote countryside roads before reaching Bride and the turning point to the Point of Ayre.

From the Point of Ayre, make your way into Ramsey which takes its name from the Norse phrase wild garlic river and was the most convenient harbour to England, Scotland, Ireland and Scandinavia, invaded by Vikings and the Scots in its time. Ride by the 2,241 foot iron Queen’s Pier which is currently under restoration or take a detour to explore the historic estates of Milntown which displays an important collection of vintage cars and motorcycles.

Exiting Ramsey and taking the eastern coast road back to Douglas on your left you can tour around the traditional hamlet of Maughold. Trundle along the country roads to find Kirk Maughold Church at its heart, one of the oldest on the Island and home to the most ancient relics and pre-Norse stone crosses.

From Maughold you can meander your way through to Laxey, taking in the Laxey Wheel and village before continuing along the coast rode back to Douglas.  

For a detailed GPX file of the route please click here.