Shetland Islands Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure to the Shetland Islands with our comprehensive travel guide featuring highlights, major attractions, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Shetland Islands

Located in Scotland, United Kingdom, the Shetland Islands boasts of stunning landscapes, rich culture and heritage, and a unique blend of traditions. The archipelago of over 100 islands is situated in the North Atlantic, around 100 miles from the Scottish mainland and provides a great escape for travelers seeking a peaceful and laid-back vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Shetland Islands

The Shetland Islands cater to all types of travelers, from history enthusiasts to outdoor adventurers. Here are some of the must-visit places in the Shetland Islands:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Shetland Museum and Archives - This museum showcases the rich history and culture of the Shetland Islands with a wide range of exhibits including artifacts, artworks, and photographs.
  • Muness Castle - Built in 1598, the castle is one of the best-preserved examples of a 16th-century tower house in Scotland.
  • Jarlshof - An archaeological site dating back to 2500 BC, Jarlshof has ruins from different periods including the Bronze Age, Iron Age, Norse, and Scottish.
  • Scalloway Castle - A historic castle located in the village of Scalloway, the castle was built in the 17th century and is now a popular tourist attraction.

Natural Attractions of Shetland Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hermaness National Nature Reserve – Home to over 100,000 seabirds and a beautiful lighthouse, the reserve offers breathtaking views of the North Sea.
  • Sumburgh Head - Located on the southern tip of Shetland, the head is an RSPB reserve that offers panoramic ocean views and excellent opportunities for bird watching.
  • St. Ninian’s Isle - A tombolo beach that connects the Isle to the mainland, St. Ninian’s Isle is an ideal place for a relaxing day out.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shetland Islands

With its scenic landscapes, the Shetland Islands offer a range of hiking and biking trails that provide the perfect opportunity to explore the archipelago. Some popular hiking and biking routes include:

  • Shetland Way - A long-distance hiking trail that covers 140 miles, the trail runs through some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Shetland Islands.
  • South Nesting Nature Reserve Path - A fun and easy trail that is suitable for all levels of hikers, this path winds through heather-covered moors and rocky outcrops.
  • Eshaness Coastal Walk - A scenic walk that offers stunning views of towering cliffs, churning waves, and the rugged coastline.

Best Things to Do in Shetland Islands: Activities and Tours

  • Boat tours – Take a guided boat tour along the coast and explore stunning sea caves, towering cliffs, and hidden coves.
  • Whale watching – Shetland Islands is known for its rich marine life, and a whale watching tour will give you a chance to spot some of the majestic creatures that call the archipelago home.
  • Fishing - Shetland Islands is a popular destination for anglers with many different species of fish to be caught such as haddock, cod, and salmon.
  • Pony trekking - The Shetland pony is a popular breed of ponies found throughout the archipelago, and taking a leisurely pony trek is an excellent way to explore the islands.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shetland Islands

If you’re planning to spend a week in the Shetland Islands, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Lerwick and visit Scalloway Castle
Day 2 Visit the Shetland Museum and Archives and Hermaness National Nature Reserve
Day 3 Take a whale watching tour and visit Sumburgh Head
Day 4 Go fishing or pony trekking in the morning, and in the afternoon, take a boat tour
Day 5 Visit Jarlshof and St. Ninian’s Isle
Day 6 Go hiking in the Shetland Way
Day 7 Visit the Shetland Textile Museum and explore the local markets

Food and Drink Scene of Shetland Islands

Must-Try Dishes

  • Smoked Salmon - Known for its exceptional quality, the smoked salmon in the Shetland Islands is a delicacy that you shouldn’t miss.
  • Reestit Mutton - A traditional dish made by brining and drying mutton and served with potatoes and turnips.
  • Porridge with Beremeal - A wholesome and nutritious dish, porridge with beremeal is a tasty breakfast option.

Local Beverages

  • Shetland Reel Gin - Produced by the local Shetland Reel Distillery, the gin is crafted using local botanicals, including juniper, heather, and angelica.
  • Valhalla Brewery’s Simmer Dim Ale - Valhalla Brewery is known for crafting some of the finest ales in the Shetland Islands, and their Simmer Dim Ale is a must-try for visitors.

Where to Stay in Shetland Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, there’s plenty of options when it comes to accommodation in the Shetland Islands. Here are some top choices:

  • The Lerwick Hotel - A four-star hotel located in the heart of Lerwick town, the hotel offers modern amenities and is an ideal base for exploring the island.
  • Transvaal House - A historic guesthouse situated in the village of Aith, Transvaal House offers comfortable rooms and traditional Scottish breakfast.
  • The Shetland Hotel - A three-star hotel located on the outskirts of Lerwick, the hotel is known for its excellent views and hearty Scottish breakfasts.

What to Buy in Shetland Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Shetland Wool Sweaters - Made using the wool from the native sheep, the sweaters are warm, durable, and come in many different styles and colors.
  • Shetland Jewellery - Shetland Islands is known for its intricate and beautiful handmade jewelry that features Celtic and Norse designs.
  • Shetland Fudge - A delicious treat made using locally sourced ingredients such as cream and butter, Shetland fudge makes for a sweet souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Shetland Islands

The Shetland Islands have a rich culture and traditions that are deeply rooted in Norse and Scottish heritage. Some customs that you might encounter during your visit include:

  • Fire Festivals - Held in the coldest and darkest months of the year, the festivals celebrate the end of winter and the return of the sun.
  • Up Helly Aa - A Viking-themed festival held annually on the last Tuesday of January, Up Helly Aa involves a torchlit procession and the burning of a Viking longship.
  • Knitting - Knitting is an integral part of the Shetland culture and has been passed down from generation to generation.

Best Time to Visit Shetland Islands

The best time to visit the Shetland Islands is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is milder, and the days are longer. However, travelers should be prepared for unpredictable weather at any time of the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shetland Islands

Do:

  • Be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the locally made foods and drinks.
  • Make sure to pack appropriate clothing for the weather.

Don’t:

  • Disturb the wildlife or their habitats.
  • Litter the island by leaving behind any garbage or trash.
  • Ignore the weather warnings or advice from the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shetland Islands

The Shetland Islands are generally a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should take precautions against theft, especially in high-traffic areas such as tourist attractions or crowded streets.

Health in Shetland Islands

There are no major health concerns or specific vaccinations required for visiting the Shetland Islands. However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance and check with your doctor before traveling.

Getting to Shetland Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shetland Islands

  • Sumburgh Airport - Located in the southern tip of Shetland, Sumburgh Airport is the main airport in the archipelago and is served by regular flights from Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.

Bus Stations Near Shetland Islands

  • Lerwick Bus Station - Located in the heart of Lerwick town, the bus station operates buses to various destinations across Shetland.

Other Options

  • Ferry - There are regular ferries from Aberdeen to Lerwick, and from Lerwick to other islands of the archipelago.

How to Get Around in Shetland Islands

The most popular way to get around the Shetland Islands is by car. However, visitors can also make use of public transport such as buses or taxis or even opt for cycling or walking to explore the islands at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Shetland Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Orkney Islands - Located around 50 miles off the coast of Shetland, Orkney Islands offer a great escape for travelers who want to explore more of Scotland’s unique islands.
  • Faroe Islands - Shetland Islands are also an ideal starting point for visiting the Faroe Islands, located around 200 miles away in the North Atlantic.

Conclusion

The Shetland Islands are a hidden gem in Scotland, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. A visit to the Shetland Islands is a must for anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-track travel experience. With this comprehensive guide to the Shetland Islands, you can plan your perfect vacation to this gorgeous archipelago.

Puffins ( Puffins ("Tammy Nories") at Sumburgh Head The Northlink ferry approaches Lerwick The Northlink ferry approaches Lerwick Inter-island flights and ferries are year-round Inter-island flights and ferries are year-round Fishing boat off Shetland Fishing boat off Shetland Esha Ness Esha Ness Tombolo to St Ninian's Isle Tombolo to St Ninian's Isle Mousa Broch is 1900 years old Mousa Broch is 1900 years old The longship ablaze at Up Helly Aa The longship ablaze at Up Helly Aa Scalloway Castle Scalloway Castle Johnnie Notion's Böd, Northmavine Johnnie Notion's Böd, Northmavine Skuas attack if you approach their nest Skuas attack if you approach their nest


    Fair Isle
    Out Skerries
    Unst
    Walls