Tucked away in the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man is home to superb natural beauty and a very unique history.

Most people who visit this island come for the TT, a wild (and very famous) motorcycle race which happens every year, but my guess is that not a lot of those people think it's possible to walk around the whole place.

The Raad ny Foillan (or the ‘Way of the Gull’) is the true main event for us. An epic 100-mile coastal path that circles the entire island. One of the most underrated long-distance hikes in the British Isles if we can say so.

Our boy Ciaran has completed this loop and just wrote the definitive guide so you can do it too.

Hiking the Raad ny Foillan: What You Need to Know

The Isle of Man sits in the Irish Sea between Britain and Ireland. It's small enough to feel intimate, and wild enough to surprise you at every turn.

This coastal path runs the full perimeter of the island, passing through everything from dramatic sea cliffs and sandy beaches to quiet fishing villages and ancient Celtic sites (oh, and a solid dose of pubs, ofc).

Here are a few of the key details before you go:

The Basics

• Total distance: ~100 miles (160km)
• Typical time: 7 to 10 days, depending on pace, you could do it in 4 but you'd be rushing.
• Difficulty: Moderate. Some steep coastal sections, but nothing technical.
• Best season: May to September for the most reliable weather and longest daylight hours.

Practical Tips

• You can reach the island by flight from several UK airports. There's a ferry too from places like Dublin and Liverpool :)
• The path is well-maintained by the Manx government and free to walk.
• Wild camping is permitted in many areas along the route (the Isle of Man has a relatively relaxed approach to this), but hostels, B&Bs and such are available in the main towns. Most hikers do a bit of a mix.

Ciaran's full guide covers some of the hike's main highlights, what to pack, and all the practical info you need to plan this trip.

Travel far. Spend less. Live more.​​
- The Broke Backpacker