October 28, 2023

Shetland Itinerary

We took a last-minute trip to Shetland in November 2021, even though the best time to visit and hike this stunning island is during the summer, from May to September when days are bigger in the northern hemisphere. We got a taste of early winter in this heavenly landscape. The Scottish hospitality and the breathtaking beauty of Shetland made it a memorable adventure. I long to revisit this otherworldly island time and time.

We rented a car in Lerwick and explored the Shetland Islands. Public transport is also available as an option.

Day 1: Arrival in Lerwick

  • Arrive at the airport.
  • Transfer to the accommodation at 25 Westerloch Drive, Lerwick.
  • Check-in to the accommodation.
  • Take some time to settle in and relax after the journey.

Day 2: Lerwick Exploration

  • Explore Lerwick, the largest town in Shetland.
  • Visit local attractions, such as the Shetland Museum and Archives, Clickimin Broch, and Fort Charlotte.
  • We had the opportunity to spot seals at Victoria Pier.
  • Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant to taste Scottish cuisine.

Day 3: Unst

  • Check out the Lerwick accommodation.
  • Drive to the ferry terminal in Toft (30-minute drive).
  • Take an early morning ferry to Unst (make sure to book the ferry in advance).
  • Check into the accommodation in Unst.
  • Explore Unst, including the Hermaness Nature Reserve and the Unst Heritage Centre.
  • Puffins can be spotted in summer on the cliffs of Hermanness Nature Reserve. Due to the unpredictable weather, hiking, and waterproof shoes are a must for this beautiful walk. A spectacular view of the Norwegian Sea from the cliffs and hike until you spot the lighthouse.

Day 4: Unst/Yell

  • Spend the day exploring the island of Yell, which is accessible by ferry from Unst.
  • Visit local landmarks and enjoy the scenic beauty of Yell.
  • Easting Beach, Unst: A pristine beach surrounded by a magnificent landscape! It is fun to watch the play between the wind and the waves.

Day 5: Northmavine

  • Check out of the accommodation in Unst.
  • Drive back to the Toft ferry terminal (30-minute drive).
  • Take the ferry back to the Shetland Mainland.
  • Check into The Brae Hotel in Brae.
  • Drive to Eshaness Lighthouse.

Day 6: Fethaland or Westerwick and Culswick Broch

  • Trekking in Fethaland gives the sensation of stepping onto an alien world. This unforgettable experience will hold a permanent place in my heart. Don’t forget to explore the seal-inhabited beach. Please follow the signs located at the Isbister village’s far end for a walk to the Fethaland lighthouse.
  • Explore the Westerwick area, and consider visiting Culswick Broch.
  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of the North Mainland.

Day 7: Tingwall

  • Check out The Brae Hotel.
  • Drive back to Lerwick (40-minute drive).
  • Check into the accommodation at Norlande in Tingwall.
  • We did a beautiful walk at Lunaness.

Day 8: Central Mainland

  • Explore the Central Mainland area, including the towns of Scalloway and Burra.
  • Visit Scalloway Castle and explore Minn Beach and Meal Beach.

Day 9: Bigton – Sumburgh

  • Check out of Norlande in Tingwall.
  • Drive to Bigton (30-minute drive).
  • Check into the accommodation at Bigton.
  • Places to visit: St Ninian’s Beach, Spiggie Beach. Seals can be seen on Rerwick beach, just look down from the road.

Day 10: South Mainland – Sumburgh

  • Explore the Sumburgh area, including Jarlshof, Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, and the RSPB Nature Reserve.
  • Consider revisiting any sites you particularly enjoyed.

Day 11: Departure

  • Check out the accommodation in Bigton/Sumburgh.
  • Travel back to Lerwick for the departure.

Notes: Please make sure to book the ferry tickets in advance and check the ferry schedules for Unst and other islands. Also, consider making restaurant reservations where necessary. It’s a good idea to set aside a spare day for relaxation or in case of rainy weather.

A journey to Shetland will leave you in awe!

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