Shetland
Closer to Norway than mainland Scotland, the one hundred or so islands of the Shetland archipelago are easily accessible, yet are a world away in character and culture.
Home of the Vikings and for so long part of the Norse Empire, the islands and islanders have retained their traditional heritage, which can be seen in the unique craftwork, the music which fills local pubs and halls, and in the fire festival of ‘Up Helly Aa’ which celebrates the Viking legacy. Awe-inspiring scenery, abundant wildlife, world-class seafood and convivial natives complete the picture in Scotland’s very own ‘land of the midnight sun’.
Follow in the footsteps of travellers who have been coming to these northern lands since prehistoric times and you be sure to expect a warm reception from the famously friendly locals. Visit Neolithic Mousa Broch, one of the best-preserved prehistoric buildings in Europe and the tallest still standing broch, or round tower, in the world.
Explore the extraordinarily well-preserved runs of the ancient settlement Jarlshof, dating back some 5,000 years, that was re-discovered in 1897 after a violent storm washed away the soil covering the site.
In January you can, join in the revels at the annual Viking festival of ‘Up Helly Aa’ - the world's biggest fire festival. Witness a torchlight procession where Vikings drag a longship through the streets and set it alight in spectacular fashion, before joining in the night of revelry.
These dramatic celebrations are matched by the islands' breathtaking natural wonders. Shetland is the perfect place to get active, whether walking, windsurfing, fishing, cycling, scuba-diving, sailing, surfing or kayaking. If that’s not for you, just enjoy the peace and quiet of the great outdoors.
Find yourself at the most norhtly point in britan at Hermaness National Nature Reserve and spot an exciting variety of wildlife like whales, otters and seals, and well over a million birds including adorable puffins. The scenery is dramatic, with stupendous cliffs, jagged sea stacks, rocky shores and golden beaches.
The sunsets are spectacular, the Northern Lights can be astounding and in midsummer there are 19 hours of daylight, meaning it never really gets dark!
