ISLE OF MAN COASTAL PATH
THE WAY OF THE GULL
ISLE OF MAN COASTAL PATH - SELF GUIDED WALKING
HOLIDAY
SUMMARY
The Isle of Man Coastal Path, also know as ‘The Way of the Gull’ stretches 95 miles around the Manx
coast. The path crosses a mix of terrain from high cliff tops to glorious sandy beaches in the South.
Look out for rare flora and fauna on the dramatic coastline, listen to the sounds of the ever
changing local birdlife soaring above the clear blue sea as you meander along the unspoilt, shingle
beaches. Wind your way through many colourful fishing villages and nature reserves and at the end
of the day make a well deserved stop for a cool afternoon drink at one of the many welcoming island
pubs. Heading over to this tranquil island is the perfect escape from a hectic city life and this
charming island will leave you with memories to treasure forever.
The walk starts in the capital city of Douglas, a bustling seaside town steeped in Victorian history. Heading
in a clockwise direction you soon reach the south of the island where you are presented with some
outstanding views as you reach the Spanish Head. The south boasts plenty of cliff top walking and quaint
seaside villages. The west of the island is dominated by a mixture of high peaks and long sandy beaches
and a variety of contrasting scenery through the glens. The north is the most remote section of the walk and
passes through several nature reserves before reaching the peak. The final section of the walk makes its
way through Ramsay and Laxey on the east , the most populated areas of the Isle of Man, boasting friendly
pubs and great hosts all the way back to the start of the walk in Douglas.
HIGHLIGHTS
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Visit the medieval Castle Rushen in Castletown
Ride the Manx electric railway built in 1893
Visit the exotic animals at Curraghs Wildlife Park in the West
Try some of the renowned freshly caught Manx Kippers
Magnificent cliff top walks from Port Erin
WHY CHOOSE A SELF GUIDED WALKING HOLIDAY WITH US?
Macs Adventure specialise in self guided walking holidays. As passionate and regular walkers we know
what makes for an unforgettable adventure and deliver outstanding holidays with every last detail taken care
of. Great routes, breath-taking scenery and warm, welcoming accommodation can be expected.
Each holiday can be tailor made to meet your requirements. From your first contact with Macs Adventure
you will deal with a specialist who knows the region intimately. They help you to make the most of your time
with their in-depth knowledge of the route, accommodation and must-see attractions on the way.
We supply you with an informative guide book, map and info pack to guide you every step of the way. Your
baggage is collected and moved to your next accommodation, leaving you free to enjoy each days walking.
In the unlikely event you should require emergency support our office is always more than happy to help
with your queries. From the moment you decide to walk this path you can relax and look forward to an
unforgettable self-guided walking holiday.
Tour: Isle of Man Coastal Path
Code: WEIMCP
Type: Self-Guided Walking Holiday
Price: See Website
Single Supplement: See Website
Dates: April-October (Not available to book
between the 30th May—10th June)
Walking Days: 7
Nights: 8
Start/Finish: Douglas
Distance: 98 miles (157 km)
Grade: Moderate
Is It For Me?
The contrasts of land and sea makes this
walk perfect for everyone! Spoilt for choice
with coastal and moorland walking the Isle of
Man provides great surroundings to get out
and about in. With historical sites, colourful
fishing villages and several nature reserves
to visit, you really won’t be disappointed!
What’s Included?
Accommodation: Hand-picked B&B’s,
Country Inns and Guest Houses.
Meals: A hearty breakfast is included.
Lunch and dinner are not included but always
available at accommodation or nearby.
Baggage Transfer: Door-to-door
baggage transfer is included each day.
Information Pack: Comprehensive
Guidebook and Map will be supplied aswell
ISLE OF MAN COASTAL PATH
THE WAY OF THE GULL
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Starting Point: Douglas
Douglas is the capital of the island and easily
accessible by ferry from Liverpool. Before setting
off why not take some time to walk along the
sweeping bay of Douglas or to visit the Manx
museum housing many important historical
artefacts.
The Isle of man is serviced by Ronaldsway
airport and there are regular flights from
throughout the UK every day. There are regular
buses from Ronaldsway airport to Douglas
(approx. 30mins). You can also catch the ferry
from Liverpool into Douglas. (2hrs 30mins).
Douglas to Castletown—15 Miles
This first stage of the walk heads south towards
Castletown. There is a high climb to reach the
start of the Isle of Man Coastal Path but reaching
the top is worth it as the path leads you along the
cliff face and down into Port Soderick with some
spectacular views. The path heads along the
unspoilt coastline to the seaside town of
Castletown, with great views in every direction
making for the perfect start to your walk.
Castletown to Port Erin—13 miles
An easier section which really should be
savoured as the scenery and views today are
magnificent. There is a contrast of moorland and
coastal walking. As you get closer to Port Erin
you will pass through Black Head and Spanish
Head where the Calf of Man (the site of a very
important bird sanctuary) is visible to the west.
This is also a good place for a toilet stop or to
replenish energy or provisions. The footpath will
then take a rising traverse continuing onto open
moorland high above the Bay before it starts to
make its descent into Port Erin.
Port Erin to Peel —14.5 miles
Ramsey to Laxey —13 miles
This is a tough day with extensive climbing from
Port Erin up to Peel. You will tackle three
summits in remote surroundings along the cliff
edge. There is an alternative route available to
the east which runs along the lower level and we
would advise to take this if the weather or
visibility is bad. Although tough this section
offers tremendous views as you ascend and
covers a real mixture of terrains from Cliff top
walking to open moorlands before finishing at the
coast. Why not make a stop at the Milner Tower
along the path where you can climb the spiral
staircase to reach the viewing platform.
The gradient becomes a lot easier on this section
with the path being made up of a mixture of cliff
and road walking. The walking can be slightly
rocky underfoot so take care along the higher
points. The descent into Glen Cornaa is a
particular highlight of the day and if you have
time a visit to Dhoon Bay (just off the path)
makes for an extra special day. The path can be
easily accessed again from the beach.
Peel to Jurby — 15 miles
Everything changes on this section with regards
to the surroundings, the hills towards the north
lower and the walk heads out onto the beach,
even the colouring of the stone changes. The
walking is very pleasant and parts of the path
make their way onto the old railway for easy
walking. As you reach the Jurby section of
beach the surroundings become more remote
with a very peaceful atmosphere. Due to lack of
accommodation in Jurby this evening you may
have to spend two nights in Ramsay instead.
There are regular buses to and from Jurby
(please refer to travel details).
Jurby to Ramsay — 15 miles
Today takes you to the most northerly part of the
island, all the way to Point of Ayre. You can
expect mostly beach walking up to the Point of
Ayre and then as you head south towards
Ramsay the walking becomes firmer and easier.
The Point of Ayre is remote and is very open to
the elements so expect strong winds. This
section of the walk is renowned for seals,
seabirds and a variety of rare plants making the
day particularly special. Make sure you have
sufficient supplies with you today as this section
is quite isolated.
Laxey to Douglas — 9.5 miles
The last section of the walk makes its way down
into Douglas following the most populated area
of the island. Part of the path heads along the
main road and in some cases passes through the
backs of residents gardens (which they are fine
with). Even though this is the end of the walk the
views are still as beautiful as ever as you pass
over Clay head and through the Ballanette
Conservation area until finally reaching Douglas.
Finishing Point—Douglas
This circular walk ends back in Douglas where
you started. Take a stroll along the promenade or
even take time to ride the steam train round to
Port Erin for another glimpse of this beautiful
island.
We offer the Isle of Man Coastal Path based on
ITINERARIES
one itinerary but we can tailor make the walk to
suit your plans. As the walking is on high ground
you will occasionally have to walk down to the
villages below for your accommodation but we
will provide all the details in your accommodation
sheet.
ITINERARY: WEIMCP1
Description: For experienced walkers that
enjoy a challenge, this itinerary allows you to
complete the whole Isle of Man Coastal Path in 7
ISLE OF MAN COASTAL PATH
THE WAY OF THE GULL
days.
If you wish to reduce the number of nights we
can tailor your trip to your requirements.
Walking Days: 7
Nights: 8
Day
Route
1
2
3
4
5
Arrive Douglas/Overnight
Walk to Castletown
Walk to Port of Erin
Walk to Peel
Walk to Jurby (possible
overnight in Ramsay)
Walk to Ramsay
Walk to Laxey
Walk to Douglas
Onward Travel
6
7
8
9
Total Distance
Miles
15
13
14.5
15
We are always more than happy to tailor our
standard itineraries to suit. Just let us know what
you would like and we will be happy to arrange
tailor made walking holiday.
Grade
15
13
9.5
Itineraries on this walk are graded Moderate to
Strenuous as there are some steep climbs
especially between Port Erin and Peel. There
are also some long walking days which can
prove challenging.
95
Navigation
Average Daily Distance: 13.5miles
Grade: Moderate
Walking Direction
Our itineraries and guidebook describe the walk
in a clockwise direction from Douglas and this is
how we arrange the walk. Prevailing winds are
at your back and this proves the most popular
way to complete the Coastal Path. If however
you wish to walk in a anti-clockwise direction we
can arrange this for you.
Additional Nights and Extensions
Many of our clients choose to add extra nights
along the walk to sample more of the wonderful
walking and attractions available on this walk.
Douglas is a great place for an extra
overnight stop before the walk or at the end. It is
the capital of the island and makes a great base
point to rediscover those places which really
stood out to you along the path. There is a
frequent public transport service in and out of
Douglas.
Fewer Nights
Tailor Made Holidays
The route is way marked extensively and clearly
with the symbol of the gull . Whilst there are
to and from Ramsay is very easy to use.
Single Rooms
If you require single rooms we would be happy to
accommodate you although there is a single
room supplement payable.
Solo Walkers
We welcome solo walkers on the Isle of Man
Coastal Path although you should of course take
extra care in the outdoors when walking solo. A
supplement will apply to baggage transfers.
Meals
A hearty breakfast is included each morning.
Lunch and dinner are not included so you are
free to choose from the available options. Most
accommodations are more than happy to provide
a packed lunch - this can be booked on arrival.
Dinner is available either at your accommodation
or nearby pubs or restaurants.
HOLIDAY INFORMATION
Baggage Transfer
opportunities to take trails off the main path it is
easy enough to retrace your steps to return to
the Coastal Path. The map and guidebook we
provide will help you every step of the way.
Your bags will be transferred from your
accommodation as per your itinerary and moved
onto your next overnight accommodation. We
ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to
15kg per person.
Accommodation
We specifically choose the Inns, Guesthouses
and B&B’s to ensure that you enjoy every minute
of your stay. They all offer a warm welcome to
walkers, traditional hospitality and delicious local
food. We always try and book your
accommodation as close as possible to the line
of the trail.
Occasionally, in busy summer months walkers
may need to venture a mile or so off the trail as
the availability of quality accommodation can
become scarce. We will confirm this with the
booking.
Accommodation in Jurby can sometimes be
scarce in which case we would book you two
nights in Ramsay. The public transport system
Equipment
Your information pack has a detailed equipment
list which includes standard walking gear such as
good walking boots or shoes, warm and
waterproof clothes and a day pack.
PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
Dogs
Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate
walkers with dogs as many of the
accommodation providers do not accept pets.
Price
ISLE OF MAN COASTAL PATH
THE WAY OF THE GULL
Please refer to our website for up to date prices
www.macsadventure.com
Availability
This walking holiday can be enjoyed between
March—October. However we cannot take
bookings for this walk during the 30th May and
the 10th June.
Summer is when you’ll find most people either on
the trail and of course this can affect availability
of accommodation.
You can start your walk on any date that suits
your travel plans and you will find up to date
availability on our website. The Isle of Man
Coastal Path is very popular and accommodation
can get booked quickly so it is best to book as far
in advance as you are able to.
Included
 Bed and breakfast accommodation in ensuite
rooms wherever possible.
 Door to door baggage transfer.
 A detailed guidebook, map and info pack.
 Emergency telephone support from our office
in the event of a problem.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Excluded
 Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks.
 Travel Insurance.
 Transport should you need to skip a stage.
 Entrance fees (where applicable)
Getting to and from the Isle of Man
By Air— The Isle of Man has its own airport,
Ronaldsway airport . ‘Flybe’ and ‘Easyjet’
operate flights throughout the UK. There are
then regular buses that run between the airport
and the start of the walk in Douglas.
By Ferry—The Isle of Man is also
accessible by ferry from Liverpool, Heysham,
Dublin and Belfast This ferry will take you
directly into Douglas Port. (approx. 2.5 hrs. from
Liverpool)
By Car—We don't recommend travel by car due
to the environmental impact but if you do need to
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
drive we would suggest to leave your car at the
ferry port in the town where you are travelling
from as car parking on the Isle of Man is
extremely limited.
A good source of reference for travel details is
the Isle of Man official website.
We operate holidays in some of the most
beautiful areas of the British Isles and try to
HOW TO BOOK
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
Financial Security
In accordance with "The Package Travel,
Package Holidays and Package Tours
Regulations1992" all passengers booking with
Macs Adventure Ltd are fully protected for the
initial deposit and subsequently the balance of all
monies paid to us, including repatriation if
required (this insurance will not cover repatriation
to the country of origin for the passengers
outside of the EU), arising from cancellation or
curtailment of your travel arrangements due to
the insolvency of Macs Adventure Ltd
Book with Confidence. We are a member of
ABTA which means you have the benefit of
ABTA’s assistance and Code of Conduct. We
provide full financial protection for your money.
operate in an environmentally aware and
sustainable manner. We do this by following our
M.A.C.S. Responsible travel policy.
For more information please refer to our website:
http://www.macsadventure.com
ABTA Member Statement
Once you have read all the information in this
factsheet or our website, please visit our website
or give us a call to confirm availability.
You can then book by any of the following
methods:
Macs Adventure Holidays is a Member of ABTA.
ABTA and ABTA members help holidaymakers
to get the most from their travel and assist when
things don’t go according to plan. We are obliged
to maintain a high standard of service to you by
ABTA’s Code of Conduct.
 Book Securely Online:
www.macsadventure.com
 Telephone: +44 (0) 141 530 8886
 Fax/Post: Download or request a booking form
and post it to Macs Adventure, 44 Speirs
Wharf, Glasgow, G4 9TH, UK or fax it to +44
(0) 845 527 5688
Please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone on
+44 (0) 141 530 8886 or email:
[email protected] if you have any
queries and one of our expert team will be happy
to help.
For more information on ABTA, the Code of
Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to
you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30
Park Street, London SE1 9EQ, tel 020 3117
0581 www.abta.com