Just 40 minutes from the UK is the Isle of Man, the first entire nation designated as a UNESCO Biosphere. Dubbed Britain’s answer to Tasmania, the island is full of rare wildlife, rugged coastlines, and barely trodden beaches, making it perfect for a quiet getaway.

With a population of just 85,000 and a careful balance of community and countryside, the island can feel quite spacious, even during a busy time of the year. Located in the sea between the UK and Ireland, the Isle of Man can be reached either by plane or boat, meaning even those with a phobia of flying can visit this beautiful destination.

Those looking for a walking holiday can trace the entire shoreline on the Raad ny Foillan coastal path, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, moving between cliffs, coves and fishing villages with sea views at every turn.

And the rugged coastlines of Niarbyl Bay and the Calf of Man feel more like the Australian island of Tasmania than they do an island in the Irish Sea.

Taking to TripAdvisor, a recent visitor to Niarbyl Bay wrote: “Niarbly Beach offers an idyllic setting for walking and exploring, perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

“The beach’s unique rock formations provide an intriguing landscape to discover, with plenty of tide pools and hidden nooks.”

While another added: “A real dreamy gem on the island with picturesque scenery of the coast and Irish Sea, there is also a walk along the coast that heads south and a little stone pebble beach, complete with a sea cave and a lovely old thatched cottage on the shoreline.”

The island’s wildlife is another highlight of any trip, including the tailless Manx cat and the rare four-horned Loaghtan sheep, alongside seals, seabirds, and the occasional basking shark.

The Isle of Man is also a favourite for stargazers, with 26 official Dark Sky Discovery sites and exceptionally low light pollution. And occasionally, the Northern Lights are even visible from the island.