This English-speaking island’s charm lies not only in its stunning natural beauty but in the endless possibilities of exploring it from different approaches.

Perhaps one of the most extreme ways of admiring this often-overlooked gem’s many landscapes is a challenging hike from one end to the other.

The Raad ny Foillan, Manx Gaelic for ‘The Way of the Gull’, is the Isle of Man’s premier long distance footpath with a whopping 95 miles.

This spectacular coastal walking trail offers a comprehensive view of the Isle of Man’s beauty and character, and according to visitisleofman.com is “the perfect opportunity to walk around a complete Nation.”

The route is divided into multiple sections, each with its own unique appeal, taking walkers through sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, peaceful coves, and lush green valleys.

Along the way, visitors find scenic views of the Irish Sea, historic sites, and wildlife habitats, making it a haven for nature lovers, photographers, and history enthusiasts.

Some sections of the trail pass by ancient castles, old mining settlements, and even prehistoric burial sites, adding a rich historical and cultural layer to the journey.

While the full Raad ny Foillan trail can be completed in about seven to nine days, depending on your pace, it’s also popular for shorter segments, allowing visitors to enjoy smaller portions of the trail without committing to the entire circuit.

The trail is well-maintained and signposted, making it suitable for walkers of various abilities, though some parts can be quite challenging due to uneven terrain and steep ascents.

The path takes hikers past notable landmarks, including the iconic Calf of Man, a small island off the southern tip of the Isle of Man, famous for its wildlife and birdwatching opportunities.

Another highlight is Castletown, home to the historic Castle Rushen, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the British Isles.

Hikers can also pass through picturesque villages like Port Erin and Peel, each with its own unique character and opportunities for rest and trying local delicacies like queenies and Manx Bonnag.

Wold-famous for the Isle of Man TT or Tourist Trophy races, sports lovers may also know Isle of Man as the birthplace of Pilates.

Pilates was created by in the early 20th century by German physical trainer Joseph Pilates, who was born in Mönchengladbach, Germany, to a gymnast father and naturopath mother.

The idea for his method came to him during World War I while he was interned at the Knockaloe camp on the Isle of Man.