Never been to Isle of Man before, so a brand new experience. Looks a lot like Ireland, but is it's own unique little place. Only 85K inhabitants who live on a race course/island. The race, of course, is the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy for motorcycles and is often called one of the most dangerous racing events in the world. (Wikipedia)
A tender port, as were most of the ports here in Ireland. Note the row of Victorian apartment buildings along the promenade.
We took the Manx Electric Railway excursion. Departing from northern end of the beach, it goes north to meet with the Snaefell Mountain Railway.
The Laxey Wheel, world's largest working water wheel at 72 feet diameter. It was built in 1854 to power the mining operation on the mountain.
Manx farms (if you live here you are a Manx...not a Manner or Man)
Some sheep were grazing along the line of the train, and would take off running away from the train as it approached. But they ran along the tracks rather than off to the side.
The Snaefell Mine -- lead and zinc. No longer in operation.
Signs of the TT race
Electric railway at the summit
We boarded a bus for most of the return trip, and followed the motorcycle course for a part of it. It looks like fun and certain death to me.
Of course, there are amateurs out there on the course all the time.
The entire promenade if fronted by Victorian apartment buildings.
Memorial to lifesavers
Tower of Refuge -- actual lifesaving station in the harbor, can be reached by walking at low tide.
Looks familiar but a little different
Street art
Isle of Man flag, with three legs representing 'birth, life, death'
And back to the ship
A tender port, as were most of the ports here in Ireland. Note the row of Victorian apartment buildings along the promenade.
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