At equal distance between the British and Irish coasts, in the Irish Sea, lies a small pearl called the Isle of Man, one of the jewels of the crown. Depending solely and directly on the sovereign (today Elizabeth II), it has a large economic and political autonomy vis-à-vis its neighbours in the United Kingdom and even in the European Union, of which it is not a member. This singularity is also found in his character and his so powerful charm. It was the Celts who first marked this land with their passage, then the Scandinavian Vikings seized it and established a political system far ahead of its time. The Mannois, very proud of this glorious past, are doing everything today to perpetuate their own traditions. Tourism was in the 1920s the first economic sector, the island is today recognized for the beauty of its green landscapes, the warm welcome of its inhabitants and of course for its golf courses and its circuit of the emblematic motorcycle race, the Tourist Trophy. Going on a trip to the Isle of Man will undoubtedly be an original, unforgettable and exotic experience. The size of the Isle of Man is not very important, the country nevertheless offers many attractions and sites to visit. It is therefore wise to go there for several days or even a few weeks. The island can easily be reached by boat or plane from Scotland or neighbouring England. The climate on the island is temperate, the winter is mild but often rainy, the best time to visit these lands then extends from June to September. The drier summers are still quite cool, remember to take mid-season clothes, especially when you go into the hills. As soon as you arrive in Douglas, its capital, you will notice that here reigns an atmosphere of calm, serenity, sharing and freedom. The city of Victorian architecture is also the main port of the island and has a marina very popular with sailing enthusiasts. It was for a very long time the destination of choice for bourgeois holidaymakers in the United Kingdom, so some areas are typically seaside resorts and offer fairly high-end services. Shoppers will be delighted, a large number of stores exist and some major luxury brands have established themselves there. Prices are generally lower there than in the United Kingdom, as taxes are much lower. When you leave Douglas, you will enter the fabulous countryside very preserved. Other important cities to visit are Castletown and Peel. The best way to get there is to rent a car in Douglas and take the coastal road which offers breathtaking views. The countryside is mainly composed of moors and meadows where sheep live freely. Hills, valleys and rivers characterize this environment rich in natural beauty. The fauna and flora of the Isle of Man are indeed varied and exceptional. You may see unique birds, seals and basking sharks. The highest point is the Snaeffel mountain, only 621 metres high. The island is in fact an archipelago because it has two other small detached islands, Saint Patrick and Calf of Man. Sports enthusiasts will be able to enjoy its mild climate all year round, as many possibilities are available to them. They can cycle around the island on the beautiful marked cycle paths, play tennis, ride a horse, play golf on one of its seven courses and hike the many trails along the coast. At the water level, lots of sports at will too: diving, sailing, sea kayaking and kiteboarding. For those who prefer peace and quiet and rest, they can visit the island on one of its steam trains and swim as a family on the beautiful beaches of Port Erin and Port St Mary. There is no direct link from France to the Isle of Man, it is mandatory to stop in the UK or Geneva. Only one small airport exists in the south of the island. Attention, there are no speed limits on the island's roads.

Art and culture on the Isle of Man
The culture is truly specific to its Celtic and Scandinavian origins. Indeed its influences are noticed everywhere, tourists are invited to a return to the past to rediscover the history of the island through its many museums and sites. The craft manufactures typical products such as pottery or Scottish style fabrics or the famous Manx sheep's wool sweaters. In Douglas, you will find souvenir shops on the dike.

What to visit in the Isle of Man
Douglas, its streets, its shops, the Gaiety Theatre, the Museum of the Isle of Man (Manx Museum), Castletown and its Castle Rushen Castle.