Local walkers of any standard are being encouraged to explore parts of the Isle of Man they may have never seen and join in on any of the events being staged during the Isle of Man Walking Festival which takes place over the Bank Holiday weekend between April 28th and May 1st.
“This is not just a weekend for visiting experienced walkers,” said festival organiser Sue Dennis. “There are lots of short, easy routes and we would warmly welcome any locals, no matter what their experience, to come along and join in, even if it’s just for one of the walks.”
She added, “The festival’s varied programme offers something for every type of walker, from those wanting to soak up some Manx heritage on a leisurely stroll to seasoned hikers after something a lot more strenuous.”
Walks over the holiday weekend take place all over the Island, so there is bound to be one – or more – to suit any individual interests. In the evenings there are a number of optional social events to meet fellow walkers and enjoy the local food and drink.
All walks are led by experienced guides and it’s an opportunity to learn more about the Island and its history and nature. Sue Dennis added, “Who knows, you may even stumble across a new favourite walk in the process, or somewhere beautiful you have never seen before.”
Routes are highly varied and include places such as the Herring Way, the coastal footpath, glens, plantations, the May Day celebrations at Cregneash, Laxey Wheel, various towns and villages, the Fairy Bridge, the Camera Obscura and also the chance to see wild wallabies.
There are only a few rules - the minimum age is 16, walkers are expected to wear appropriate clothing and footwear and no dogs are allowed on the walks, as some of the routes involve crossing farmland.
Walks in the Isle of Man are unique as the Isle of Man has a bit of everything on each route, covering a wide diversity of scenery. Some of the routes start on a beach and then go to the summit of a mountain, taking in fantastic countryside and glens in between, which is unique for walking festivals in Britain.
There are also targeted routes for different sections of the coast and countryside and specific attractions. All walks start and finish using public transport – either buses or railways.
The cost is ?8 per walk, or ?30 for the four days. Two of the walks are now fully booked - the Friday Western Coast and Saturday’s The Walk That Has It All.
Entries close in mid April.
• Further information is available the Walking Festival Facebook page (IOM Walking Festival) or the website www.visitisleofman.com where you can download the festival brochure.
