There are many ways to inspire the soul, but none so reviving as an island escape.
The Isle of Man, nestled within the sapphire heart of the Irish Sea, is a heavenly destination that promises the perfect pages from which to write your own adventure. A place that feels both nostalgic and new, it sets an otherworldly scene with soaring cliffs and sweeping bays, hummocky hills and waterside villages that beckon for hours immersed in tales and trails. For me and my dog, Blu, it provided an unmissable opportunity to discover a beautiful part of the world with completely fresh eyes and an untapped sense of adventure.
Setting a novel-worthy backdrop for our stay was the beautiful Riverside Cottage, a stunning cottage overlooking Port St Mary Bay and Langness Peninsula…
Riverside Cottage – A week of bliss
Situated on the southwest coast above the picturesque village of Port St Mary, Riverside Cottage sits in one of the prettiest corners of the Isle of Man. The former home of Ned Maddrell, the last native Manx Gaelic speaker, it blends historic charm with contemporary luxuries to create a magical setting for island sojourns. Welcoming up to six guests across four bedrooms, its tapestry of lovingly curated rooms and living spaces ensures comfort throughout the day. Outside, an enclosed garden framed by greenery promises a south-facing aspect overlooking the sea for dreamy spells soaked in sunshine. Naturally, this became a favourite spot for Blu, second only to the kitchen…
With its soothing tones and comfortable spaces, time spent at Riverside Cottage had a magnetic quality. Mornings became a slow ritual of sunrises over an inky sea, enjoyed from the cocoon of bed with a mug in hand. Relaxed breakfasts and leisurely lunches were crafted in the kitchen, complemented by a rich larder of Manx delights. Afternoons revolved around the garden with face tilted towards the sun, while Blu played amongst a carpet of daisies. Evenings disappeared between the pages of a book, warmed, once or twice, by the wood burner amongst the mercurial climes of late spring. Throughout it all, what I enjoyed most was the peace and the feeling of homecoming in this idyllic island retreat.
Island highlights
With several days before us, Blu and I arrived on the Isle of Man via ferry, ready to uncover all that makes this unique part of the world so special. We had never visited before, so we had the enviable luxury of discovering everything for the first time, from dog-friendly attractions and welcoming eateries to breathtaking natural landmarks.
Views – Unforgettable vistas
With undulating hills at its heart and a crown of rolling coastline, the Isle of Man boasts spectacular views at almost every turn. Whilst Blu was largely preoccupied with scents closer to the ground, my attention was often drawn to sweeping vistas unfurling across the horizon. Close to Riverside Cottage, one of the most captivating viewpoints overlooks The Chasms. A work of natural artistry, The Chasms comprises a geological medley of sea caves, gorges, and stacks, including the impressive Sugarloaf Rock, which towers 200 feet above the water.
This was the perfect spot to sit back and watch as thousands of white-feathered gulls wheeled around the cliffs and peppercorn-sized fishing boats chugged past, emphasising the scale of the coastline. Everchanging in shifting lights and weather, other favourites included the reaching vistas from atop Milner’s Tower, Niarbyl, and The Sound – all residing within easy reach of Riverside Cottage.
Attractions – Best places as rated by Blu
The Isle of Man is home to a number of dog-friendly attractions, including both natural and cultural highlights. This meant that exploring with Blu was a breeze, and the days easily floated by accompanied by the pitter-patter of excited paws. With nearly a hundred miles of coastline, the island is especially sought-after for its dog-friendly beaches and coves. Reached from a network of paths from Riverside Cottage’s doorstep, Perwick Beach welcomes dogs all year and exudes Treasure Island vibes backed by verdant cliffs. Meanwhile, on the northwest coast, Ballaugh Beach made for an excellent road trip and revealed a wide expanse of sand and shingle where Blu launched into ecstatic zoomies across the shoreline.
At the northernmost tip of the Isle of Man, Point of Ayre is a must-visit attraction, overlooked by the candy cane-striped Point of Ayre Lighthouse. An important National Reserve and breeding site for endangered and ground-nesting birds, it’s an amazing place to visit to look out for local wildlife. Given its ecological importance, it’s best to keep dogs on leads, but there are lots of footpaths that you can trace around the reserve to safely enjoy the area together. A trip on the Snaefell Mountain Railway was also an unmissable treat and a particular favourite. A Victorian-era electric railway, it carried Blu and I to the summit of Snaefell, ready to find the island’s highest point and panoramic views of ‘the Seven Kingdoms’.
Walks – Our favourite trails on the Isle of Man
If you’re a fan of walking, then the Isle of Man is sure to inspire. From its salt-jewelled cliffs and wide bays to its sylvan glens and undulating hills, it has something for all seasons. Even after several days on the island, I had barely scratched the surface of all that it had to offer. Embracing the elements, which ranged from bright sunshine to revitalising winds and spirited showers, Blu and I set off in search of new trails to explore. Close to Riverside Cottage, a walk from Port Erin along Bradda Head and up to Milner’s Tower was particularly memorable and rewarded with striking views across Port Erin Bay and the Calf of Man.
For slow strolls, a loop around Langness (“long point”) Peninsula and Lighthouse offered a great place to absorb the scenery. While not too far away, Scarlett Point was equally enchanting for moments entwined in history and nature. That said, a personal favourite arrived in the form of Cronk Ny Arrey Laa. Easily accessed from The Sloc, we navigated a steady path uphill towards a cairn-topped pinnacle, where incredible views unveiled across the southern coastline, hills, and cliffs that seemingly dropped straight off into the sea. Translating to “Hill of the Day Watch”, it’s little wonder this scenic spot was once used as a lookout post – though today there’s considerably more chance of seeing kestrels, hen harriers, and meadow pipits than marauding Viking ships.
Places to Eat – A taste of Manx cuisine
For those seeking the finest flavours, the Isle of Man serves a smorgasbord of places to eat and drink. The Shed in Laxey was one of our first destinations, an award-winning beachside café overlooking the water on the prom. The Shore in Gansey was a welcoming favourite, with a timber-beamed restaurant filled with happy chatter and delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. The views over Port St Mary Bay vied for attention, while Blu was thrilled with the succulent morsels that were slipped from my plate for her own delectation.
With a mixture of indoor and outdoor seating, both Black Dog Oven in Peel and Smokey Sam’s in Castletown are popular dog-friendly restaurants on the Isle of Man, winning favour from Blu for their adoring staff and tasty tidbits. Meanwhile, for curating flavoursome meals at home, both the Isle of Man Farm Shop at Glen Helen and The Deli at Tynwald Mills were island go-to’s. Stocked with the very best of Manx cuisine and artisan delights from further afield, both of these gems were perfect for picking up moreish treats, from the freshest seasonal fruit and veg to Isle of Man salts and gins. All of which were readily sampled.
Moments – A reminder not to rush
With Riverside Cottage offering the perfect base from which to explore and a world of wonder to uncover, our island escape was an unforgettable experience. The kind of place to keep thinking about long after the holiday is over, the only sadness was closing the door of Riverside Cottage and embarking home again – yet the moments and memories made along the way were more than enough to spark future chapters of Manx discovery. Above all, a stay at Riverside Cottage provided a blissful reminder not to rush and to enjoy the luxury of each moment – resting in the present and embracing the wonder of adventures yet to be written.
