Fair Isle Travel Guide

Discover the stunning Fair Isle in Scotland, filled with breathtaking natural attractions, rich cultural heritage, and delectable local cuisine. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Fair Isle

Nestled in the Shetland Islands of Scotland, Fair Isle is a hidden gem that never fails to amaze its visitors. This remote island is a paradise for nature lovers, bird watchers, hikers, and anyone seeking an authentic Scottish experience. With its rugged coastline, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Fair Isle provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern world.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about visiting Fair Isle, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Fair Isle

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Fair Isle Museum The Fair Isle Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the island’s past, showcasing traditional Fair Isle knitwear, handicrafts, and tools used by generations of islanders.

St Boniface Kirk St Boniface Kirk is a beautiful church that dates back to the 18th century. The church is located on a hill overlooking the island, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Natural Attractions of Fair Isle: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

South Lighthouse The South Lighthouse is one of the most popular attractions on the island, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and sea. The lighthouse is located on the southern tip of the island, and visitors can enjoy a stunning hike to reach it.

Fair Isle Bird Observatory Fair Isle is renowned for being the breeding ground for a variety of rare birds, making the Fair Isle Bird Observatory one of its must-visit attractions. The observatory is a haven for bird watchers, offering tours, and talks to learn more about the birds on the island.

North Haven Beach North Haven Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand that provides a perfect picnic spot or sunbathing location. The beach offers excellent views of the surrounding landscapes and the sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fair Isle

Fair Isle boasts some of the most beautiful hiking and biking trails in Scotland. Below, we’ve listed some of our favorites:

Hiking Trails

The South Light walk This scenic walk takes you past the South Lighthouse, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.

Ward Hill Ward Hill is the highest point on Fair Isle, standing at 156 meters. This hike is challenging, but the views from the summit are breathtaking.

Biking Routes

A road trip around the island on a bike Renting a bike is a great way to explore Fair Isle at your own pace. The island has only one road, which makes it easy to navigate.

Best Things to Do in Fair Isle: Activities and Tours

Fair Isle Heritage Centre

The Fair Isle Heritage Centre is a great place to start your Fair Isle adventure. This center provides a wealth of information about the island’s history, culture, and customs. You can also book tours and walks from here to explore the island’s stunning landscapes.

Traditional Fair Isle Knitting

Knitting is a traditional craft in Fair Isle, and learning how to knit is an excellent way to discover the local culture. The Fair Isle Heritage Centre offers knitting workshops where visitors can learn how to knit a traditional Fair Isle pattern.

Sea Kayaking

Sea kayaking is a popular activity on Fair Isle, with a variety of kayaking tours available. Paddle through the crystal-clear waters to explore the island’s hidden coves, sea stacks, and caves.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fair Isle

If you’re planning to stay on Fair Isle for a week, we recommend the following itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Fair Isle and check into your accommodation. Visit the Fair Isle Heritage Centre to learn about the island’s history and culture.
  • Day 2: Explore the beautiful Fair Isle Bird Observatory and take a guided tour to learn about the island’s birdlife.
  • Day 3: Hike to the top of Ward Hill for stunning views of the island.
  • Day 4: Rent a bike and explore the island’s stunning landscapes at your own pace.
  • Day 5: Take a sea kayaking tour to explore the island’s hidden coves and sea stacks.
  • Day 6: Visit the Fair Isle Museum to learn about the island’s traditional history and handicrafts.
  • Day 7: Relax on North Haven Beach and take in the stunning scenery.

Food and Drink Scene of Fair Isle

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fair Isle Smoked Salmon
  • Traditional Cullen Skink Soup
  • Local Seafood Platter

Local Beverages

  • Real Ale, made in the island’s own brewery
  • Highland Park Whisky, crafted in the nearby Orkney Islands

Where to Stay in Fair Isle: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Fair Isle Lodge Fair Isle Lodge provides guests with comfortable accommodation, delicious local cuisine, and stunning sea views.

South Lighthouse The South Lighthouse offers guests the unique opportunity to stay in a historic building with stunning panoramic views of the sea.

What to Buy in Fair Isle: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Traditional Fair Isle Knitwear
  • Local Artwork
  • Handmade Crafts

Local Culture and Customs of Fair Isle

Fair Isle has a rich cultural heritage that is still evident in daily life on the island. The islanders are friendly and welcome visitors with open arms. When visiting the island, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Fair Isle

Fair Isle is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is between May and August when the weather is milder, and the island is lush with wildflowers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fair Isle

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Take care of the environment
  • Visit the local attractions and support the community by purchasing locally-made products

Don’t:

  • Damage the environment
  • Visit bird nesting sites during the breeding season (April – August)

Safety and Health

Safety in Fair Isle

Fair Isle is a safe place to visit, but visitors should take sensible precautions to ensure their safety. Hiking on the island can be challenging, and visitors should be in good physical health before undertaking any hikes.

Health in Fair Isle

There are no medical facilities on Fair Isle, so visitors should bring any necessary medication with them. In case of an emergency, visitors can be evacuated to the nearby Shetland Islands by helicopter.

Getting to Fair Isle: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fair Isle

Kirkwall Airport, in the nearby Orkney Islands, offers flights to Fair Isle on a regular basis.

Bus Stations Near Fair Isle

There are no bus stations on Fair Isle, but visitors can take a ferry from the mainland, and then take a taxi to their accommodation.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a private mini-bus tour from the mainland to Fair Isle.

How to Get Around in Fair Isle

There is only one road on Fair Isle, and the best way to get around is by foot, bike, or by taxi if necessary.

Where to Go Next from Fair Isle: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The nearby Shetland Islands offer a wealth of things to see and do after visiting Fair Isle, including exploring the capital, Lerwick, visiting the local distillery, or hiking in the stunning Shetland landscapes.

Conclusion

Fair Isle is a truly unique destination that offers visitors a glimpse into a world rich in culture, scenic beauty, and custom. With its stunning natural landscapes, friendly locals, and delicious local cuisine, there is something on Fair Isle for everyone. Plan your next adventure with our comprehensive travel guide and discover this ultimate hidden gem of Scotland!

Ferry Ferry "The Good Shepherd" Coastline near Malcolm's Head Coastline near Malcolm's Head A Fair Isle pullover A Fair Isle pullover Stairwell of the South Lighthouse Stairwell of the South Lighthouse