Scotland's Shetland Islands
Experience Overview
Discover the many charms of the Shetland Islands on a small group adventure featuring dramatic coastlines, towering sea cliffs, wildlife and history. Stay in Lerwick – home to the Shetland Museum & Archives, a collection of exhibits that paint a colourful picture of medieval and modern times on the island. Scenic drives in a private minibus will take you to the rugged landscapes of Eshaness and Muckle Flugga – the most northerly inhabited point in the United Kingdom – where you can spot local wildlife like puffins, seals and otters. End your days in atmospheric pubs with friendly locals and experience the magic of the Northern Scottish Isles for yourself.
Highlights
- Visit Shetland for stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and a unique blend of Norse heritage and vibrant culture. Settle in Lerwick, charming, historic capital, with narrow, winding streets and a picturesque harbor.
- Learn of Shetland’s Norse history dating back to the 8th century, with Viking settlers shaping its culture, language, and place names. The heritage is seen in archaeological sites and traditions as well as the Shetland Museum.
- Uncover the ancient ruins of Jarlshof, a remarkable archaeological site, before hiking to Sumburgh Head for breathtaking coastal views and seabird colonies.
- Keep a lookout for sea and native birdlife on a private daytrip to Hermaness Nature Reserve and Muckle Flugga Lighthouse – the most northerly point in the United Kingdom.
- Discover Eshaness, where dramatic sea cliffs, crashing waves, and rich history make it a must-visit destination.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1684
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Public transport,private vehicle and on foot.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: BWSL
Starts: Lerwick, United Kingdom
Finishes: Lerwick, United Kingdom
Duration: 6 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (5),Accommodation: Guesthouse (5 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2,461 ($410 /day)
Itinerary
Welcome to Scotland! Meet your guide and fellow travellers at 6 pm at the guesthouse. If you arrive in Shetland's largest town earlier, take a stroll along the harbour to get a feel for the place. Founded in the 17th century to service Dutch herring fleets, Lerwick is rich in history, with charming streets and historic buildings to explore. Ask your guide for some dinner recommendations, and perhaps end your first day at a local pub, soaking in the atmosphere.
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, meet to catch the public bus to Sumburgh, where we’ll begin a scenic hike to the historic Jarlshof site, rich in archaeological discoveries from the Iron Age to the Vikings. As we explore this fascinating site, we’ll learn about the ancient settlers who once called this land home. Continuing along the rugged coastline, we make our way to the Sumburgh Head lighthouse, where we’ll delve into the area’s maritime history, from early Iron Age inhabitants to the lighthouse keepers who protected sailors for centuries. After a day of stunning coastal views and historical exploration, we return to Lerwick in the late afternoon, leaving you free to explore. Start by taking a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to get your bearings, then try out one of the town's many bustling eateries.
Included Activities:
- Sumburgh - Jarlshof and Sumburgh Head Hike
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Start your day with a visit to the Shetland Museum, where your guide will take you through this captivating cultural hub that celebrates the islands' rich history and heritage. With engaging exhibits and world-renowned collections, the museum takes you on a journey through Shetland’s past, from its ancient Norse origins to its maritime legacy. The islands' unique traditions, craftsmanship, and wildlife are also beautifully showcased, making it a true must-see. Later, join your guide for a walking tour of Lerwick, exploring the town's most notable sights. As the capital of Shetland, Lerwick grew rapidly during the 1800s herring boom, becoming a bustling port. Its name, "Harbour of the Cairn," reflects its strategic maritime location. Over time, Lerwick has developed into a vibrant town, blending Scottish and Norse influences. Today, its narrow streets are lined with historic buildings, offering a glimpse into its rich maritime past. The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the lively harbour town at your own pace, perhaps visit the Lerwick Brewery to sample some local ales. For dinner, relax at one of Lerwick’s cozy pubs.
Included Activities:
- Lerwick - Leader led Walking Tour
- Lerwick - Shetland Museum Tour
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, we’ll embark on a private minibus journey to the Hermaness Nature Reserve, where we’ll hike to the Muckle Flugga Lighthouse, the northernmost point of the United Kingdom. In fact, Shetland is actually closer to Norway than to mainland Scotland, located just 170 miles north of Scotland and around 200 miles from Norway. This proximity is reflected in Shetland’s strong Norse heritage, with the islands having been part of the Norse Kingdom for centuries before joining Scotland in the 15th century. Muckle Flugga Lighthouse is located on Muckle Flugga, a small rocky islet off the coast of Unst, the northernmost island in Shetland. Built in 1854, the lighthouse stands at the edge of the cliffs, guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the North Sea. Its strategic location was particularly important during the Crimean War, when it helped protect British vessels. Returning to Lerwick late afternoon.
Included Activities:
- Shetland - Hermaness Nature Reserve and Muckle Flugga private trip
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, travel by private minibus as we head north to Eshaness for a scenic hike. Eshaness is a rugged and stunning coastal area in Shetland, known for its dramatic sea cliffs, volcanic history, and abundant wildlife.
As you walk, keep an eye out for seals and otters that inhabit the area.
Geologists believe that Eshaness was once a volcanic area, with its dramatic cliffs and rocky landscape formed by ancient volcanic activity. It’s a fascinating example of how natural processes have created Shetland’s unique scenery. For your final evening meal in Lerwick, consider joining your group at a local eatery to share stories from the week and enjoy a memorable meal together.
Included Activities:
- Eshaness - Coastal Hike
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
With no activities planned for the day, your adventure will conclude after breakfast. If you'd like to extend your stay on the islands, contact your booking agent in advance to arrange additional accommodation. For those wishing to continue exploring Scotland, consider joining one of our other adventures on the mainland or the Orkney Islands, just reach out to your booking agent for more details.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Rosanna - Traveled, September 2023
Don’t take this trip. It’s not a 2 . Its a 5 and unless you are a fast walker you quickly become a pariah
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/15/2023
Annette - Traveled, September 2023
My husband and I did a tour to Shetland mid September 2023. Everything about this trip was amazing. We had an excellent tour guide - Fiona. The activities were well planned. and we were lucky to have perfect weather and a great group of fellow travellers. There was a good mix of walks, hikes, museums, looking at nature, free time and custom bus tours. Be prepared for some walks that are long uphill and or on rocky terrain. We highly recommend this tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/09/2023
Michael - Traveled, July 2023
A great experience travelling around the Shetland Islands.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/30/2023
Joanne - Traveled, June 2023
Not the usual Intrepid standard. Disappointed by accommodation in Lerwick considering price of tour. Consider upgrading to a cabin on the overnight ferry. The highlights were day trips with Jill (from a local Shetland company) to Eshaness and Muckle Flugga, and seeing puffins up close.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/26/2023
Tracy - Traveled, May 2023
Being the first of its kind, it didn't accurately describe the type if activities too much hiking, level if fitness should be 3 not 2. Needed transport for around the place without us walking for ages to dinner etc in cold rainy weather. Would have liked more cultural visits eg crofts local artisans maybe a home visit? Also not much time for doing my own thing. But 6 days until long I guess. Mungo.. lovely guy but more suited to climbing, hiking tours.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/27/2023
Jennifer - Traveled, May 2023
This trip was ok. The scenery was lovely. I loved seeing so many tiny lambs. The local bus driver and guide was lovely. Not a lot was included in this trip. Accommodations in Lerwick were lacking.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/04/2023
Crystal - Traveled, May 2023
I loved visiting the Shetland Islands. I had been looking forward to this trip since we went to mainland Scotland and the Orkneys last year. The walks and sightseeing were terrific. It was very cold and windy at the northernmost point so dress warm for that day! We had a great group and leader. The Noss seabird watching boat trip on our first day in Lerwick was so worth it. We took lots of photos! It was a wonderful itinerary, and we enjoyed it so much.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/02/2023
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