Shetland Islands

Shetland Islands Holiday

The Shetland Islands are an archipelago located in Scotland, famed for their remote beauty. There are over 100 fragmented islands, set more than 100 miles north of the Scottish mainland.

Mainland is the largest of the islands, with an area of 374-square metres and it is here that most tourists base their stay. Tourists that visit the islands can spend their days exploring the rugged landscape which fringe the oily North Sea.

One of the things that makes these islands so distinctive is the changeability of the light. They are variously illuminated at different hours of the day, cutting a dramatic setting for the surrounding glens, hills and lochs.

Capital of the Shetland islands is Lerwick, which is a hark back to reality after exploring the wind ravaged treeless islands. However, a short drive a few miles out of the capital soon brings tourists back to mother nature at her most raw.

Shetland Islands Location

There are two ways tourists can get to the Shetland Islands: by air or by sea.

Those who choose to travel by boat can take Northlink Ferries’ passenger and vehicle transport service which operates between Aberdeen and Lerwick, calling in at Kirkwall and Orkney on the way. The service operates up to twice a week, depending on the time of year. It is an overnight crossing, so passengers are advised to bring sleeping bags with them, as cabins are not provided.

Alternatively, Symril Line operates weekly ferries to Lerwick from Denmark and Iceland.

Those travelling by air can take a flight to the Scottish mainland from Sumburgh Airport to an airport just outside of Lerwick. Flights also operate to nearby Aberdeen.

Why Visit Shetland Islands?

The Shetland Islands offer tourists the chance to escape from the modern day hustle and bustle and get back to Mother Nature at her best and most ragged. A perfect trip for ramblers, the Shetland's offer beautiful landscapes, contrasting between jagged outcroppings and the beautiful flowing sea and plant life.

While visiting the islands, tourists should be sure to pay a trip to Lerwick. The capital is a bustling hub of life, and its grand Victorian buildings are a sight to behold.

Established in the 17th century, Lerwick is known for becoming Europe’s largest herring town in the 19th century and today it is a major base for those who work on the North Sea oil rigs.