Calf of Man - Yn Cholloo

Calf of Man (Yn Cholloo) covers an area of about a square mile and is off the southwest of the Isle of Man from which it is separated by a stretch of water about 700 yards wide called the Calf Sound (Yn Cheyllys). The name ‘calf’ is derived from the Old Norse word ‘kalfr’ which means a small island close to a larger one.

Between the Calf of Man and the mainland Isle of Man is a small islet called Kitterland/Famman Kitterland which is home to a colony of seals. The Calf of Man is a bird sanctuary and under the ownership of Manx National Heritage. It is home to a breeding population of Manx Sheerwaters.

To the southeast of the calf is a small islet called Yn Burroo and to west The Stack. About a mile southwest is Chicken Rock which is the most southerly part of Manx national territory.

The Calf of Man Visitor Centre and Café overlooks the Calf Sound and has information on the wildlife and history of the area.

This part of the island really needs to be visited. The contrast in colours between the different shades of green against the rocks, then the deep blue sea against the light blue sky was breath taking. We found it difficult to leave, helped by the opportunity to take tea and view the Calf from the large viewing window of the café that looks south toward the small island.

Getting there

The Island can be visited by boat from Port Erin (Purt Chiarn) or Port St Mary (Purt le Moirrey) depending on season, weather and tides.

The café is reached by following the A31 south from Cregneash.