The Isle of Man has been named among the top five best stress-free island road trips in Europe by global car rental company Avis.
The island ranked fifth in Avis’ study, which analysed 40 European islands to identify destinations where visitors can enjoy scenic drives without the pressure of busy roads, challenging terrain or lengthy journeys.
The research looked at factors including average road elevation, electric vehicle charging availability, island circuit distance, tourist density, terrain type and key road-trip landmarks.
Avis said the Isle of Man offers a calm and enjoyable driving experience thanks to its scenic coastal routes, peaceful countryside and low traffic levels.
The company said: ‘Rounding out the top five is the Isle of Man, offering scenic coastal routes, peaceful countryside and low traffic levels and is the only UK island in the top 10.
‘Despite taking around four and a half hours to complete a full circuit, its uncrowded roads and varied landscapes make for a calm and enjoyable driving experience.’
Croatia’s Pag Island topped the rankings with an index score of 72.6, with Korčula and Brač also featuring in the top three.
Gozo in Malta placed fourth, praised for its compact road network, quiet lanes and short driving distances between attractions.
Avis said the research was designed to identify islands suited to families with young children, nervous drivers or those looking for a more relaxed holiday experience behind the wheel.
Avis analysed nine data points as part of the research, including island size, tourist density, maximum elevation, terrain type, EV charging locations, key landmarks, full-circuit drive time and average summer temperatures.
The Isle of Man was the only British island to feature in the top 10.
Avis’ full research and methodology can be found on its website: https://www.avis.co.uk/drive-avis/driving-guides/european-island-road-trips#