What is a Biosphere Reserve?

Well, a Biosphere Reserve is a designated area with an ecosystem of plants and animals of unusual scientific and natural interest, which are maintained and developed with a view to conservation, learning and sustainable development.

The Isle of Man fits into this definition because of its varied coastline, biodiverse sea bed, hills that hold important peat reserves, and its impressive wetlands, including the Ballaugh Curragh Ramsar site.

For visitors to the island, this means miles of stunning countryside, coastline and habitats to explore, all managed in a way that safeguards the flora and fauna. Discover some of the very best things to see and do with out top five unmissable experiences.

Unmissable Isle of Man experiences

Stay on the Calf of Man

A small island to the south of the Isle of Man, the Calf of Man is home for many species of birds and other wildlife. You can visit for a day, but for a taste of real magic stay overnight in the traditional-style 1870’s farmhouse, which also houses the Bird Observatory.

The accommodation is basic, with shared bathroom facilities, and you have to bring your own food supplies and a sleeping bag – but the reward is staying right at the heart of Calf of Man, where you have the chance of spotting the island’s 33 species of breeding birds.

Overnight stays must be booked through the Island Escapes website.

Ayres National Nature Reserve and Nature Discovery Centre

Situated towards the north-western tip of the Isle of Man, Ayres is a national nature reserve set in an important stretch of low-lying sand dune coastline. Over 780 species have been recorded on the reserve, including plants, fungi, birds, moths, ants and spiders.

The Manx Wildlife Trust’s Nature Discovery Centre has a mass of information about the area’s birds, habitats and rare plant communities. Be sure to keep your eyes out for seals from the wooden platform, and take a walk along the signed Nature Trail, which weaves its way through the marram dunes and into the expanse of heath further inland.

Take a boat trip

The opportunity to take in the island’s aquatic life from a boat shouldn’t be missed, and there are several companies who run organised trips. Manx Sea Life Safari operates out of Peel harbour, and their excursion takes in the craggy coastline around Peel Castlenand out to the beautiful Niarbyl Bay – all with guided commentary.

Niarbyl Bay

After you’ve seen it from the sea, take a trip to visit Niarbyl Bay on land and you’ll be mesmerised by the rolling hills, the dramatic coastline and views that seem to go on forever.

Take a walk on part of the coastal path to experience the shoreline up close, and as the sun sets, look up to the heavens, as the car park is one of 26 registered Dark Sky Discovery Sites on the island.

Snaefell

You can’t visit the island without a trip to the Isle of Man’s highest mountain – Sneafell – standing some 2,034 feet above sea level. It is famously said that on a clear day, you can see six kingdoms from the summit: Isle of Man, England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Heaven.

Walking to the summit isn’t too much of a challenge, but there’s always the option of taking the Sneafell Mountain Railway to the top from Laxey, and then enjoying some refreshments in the Summit Cafe.

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