From France to Isle of Man, make those travel wishes come true with a short boat trip over the sea
STUNNING countryside, wondrous wildlife, gorgeous beaches, family adventures and activities . . . all on our doorstep.
Even if we cannot fly after lockdown is lifted – or you simply do not want to – a world of options for a fabulous holiday are waiting to be discovered.
So pack up the car, drive to a ferry port and sail off to one of our nearby isles or neighbouring countries. Here, Trisha Harbord gives you a flavour of six destinations.
Isle of Man
SOMETIMES the best discoveries are right under your nose. That is how tourism bosses on the Isle of Man are selling the island to holidaymakers, hoping to lure them to this treasure in the Irish Sea.
It is best known, of course, for the annual TT motorcycle races on the mountain course. But the island is truly a destination for all seasons, rich in history, culture and attractions.
With 100 miles of coastline, you will find spectacular views and sandy beaches around every corner. The rugged landscape is perfect for hikers, walkers and cyclists.
The peaceful countryside is a haven for wildlife, too – including the native tailless cats and wild wallabies.
Meanwhile, the western coast is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Isle of Arran
IT’S known as Scotland in Miniature because the Isle of Arran has a little bit of everything – mountains, beaches, forests, glens and a famous single-malt whisky.
Check out: Self-catering apartments at The Shorehouse, Brodick. See and .
Isle of Wight
IMAGINE the kids’ excitement when you tell them you are off to Dinosaur Island. On the Isle of Wight, they can walk on the sands where neovenator, Britain’s largest-ever beast, thundered along 125million years ago.
The island, 23 miles long, is a treasure trove of dinosaur footprints, especially at Hanover Point along Brook Beach. Take a fossil walk with an expert then marvel at lifesize moving dinosaurs at the Blackgang Chine theme park.
There are more footpaths and bridleways than roads, plus 60 miles of coastline, so cyclists and walkers are spoiled. You can even take a West Wight alpaca for a leisurely stroll.
Guernsey
NEVER mind the Med – Guernsey is a great alternative, with glorious sands, scrumptious fresh seafood and dolphins swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
The Channel Island is just nine miles long by three miles wide, yet boasts 27 beaches and watersports galore, including sailing, surfing, paddle-boarding and kayaking.
Ireland
HIT telly drama Normal People is boosting Ireland’s plans to entice holidaymakers after lockdown ends. Millions are watching the love story filmed in the Emerald Isle – which had expected a flood of tourists to celebrate Galway being named 2020 European Capital of Culture.
Many of those events will now be held in autumn and winter, even early next year. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were given a taste of the entertainment, including arts festivals, circus skills, sports and music when they visited the city of Galway pre-lockdown.
Located on Ireland’s rugged west coast, two and a half hours cross-country from Dublin, it has a bohemian feel, with live traditional music on streets and in pubs.
It is a mix of old and new – medieval city walls integrated into a modern shopping centre in Eyre Square. Cruise along the Corrib River and take a walking tour, to see where Ed Sheeran filmed a video with Saoirse Ronan for his hit song Galway Girl.Or follow in William and Kate’s footsteps by popping into the Tig Coili pub for a pint of Guinness.
Special treat: Drive through the lush landscape of Connemara and eat mussels and salmon from Misunderstood Heron, a food-truck cafe on the shore of Killary Fjord.
Ferry time: Irish Ferries Holyhead-Dublin 3hrs 15mins.
Check out: Ballyconneely Holiday Cottages in Connemara National Park. See and.
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