Activities

Despite its northerly location, the Shetland Isles enjoy a temperate climate, warmed by the Gulf Stream, with long hours of sunshine in the summer and low humidity. There is less than half the rainfall of the West Highlands of Scotland and virtually no midgies. The wind however can sweep you off your feet at times – as will the views. The pollution-free air creates a special quality of light which, coupled with the backdrop of spectacular scenery and wealth of wildlife, makes the outdoors a must. Whether you are a photographer, painter, birdwatcher, wildlife enthusiast, angler, walker, horse rider, climber, watersport fanatic, sailor, diver, archaeologist or sightseer, the invigorating Shetland air will give you a delicious sense of euphoria that will enrich your holiday experience.

If a rush of adrenalin is what you are after, then windsurfing, waterskiing or perhaps cliff climbingmight fit the bill. Intrepid explorers can do so by mountain bike or rambling or indeed by pony. There are enough unexplored tracks, footpaths, secluded coves, hidded bays and secret caves to make Shetland a real and exciting adventure.

There are hundreds of bays and inlets which are better explored by yacht or dinghy, and locally chartered boat trips around the islands of Bressay and Noss provide the opportunity to view the sheer cliffs from a different perspective. These boats take you so close to the towering stacks and the maelstrom of thousands of screaming birds that you feel you should step off and join them. The experience is truly an exhilarating one.

Shetland has some of the best wild brown trout fishing in Britain, and there are over 350 well stocked lochs to choose from. Sea angling, in perhaps the richest fishing grounds in Europe, provides thrilling sport and big catches, including record breaking skate and shark in addition to cod, halibut, haddock, mackerel, catfish and tusk. Boats and tackle can be hired locally.

The crystal clear waters make the sub aqua habitat attractive to experts and beginners alike. Colourful marine life, sharing the ocean with ancient and recent wrecks, provide a rewarding experience for diving enthusiasts who can also hire equipment and tuition locally.

Horse riding and pony trekking are a good way to get off the beaten track, and the first class road network and low volume of traffic means that even driving becomes a stress free leisurely pursuit.

And if you do prefer to be indoors, there are plenty of leisure centres and swimming pools, museums and exhibitions, crafts, festivals, fiddle music and hostelries. The natives here are friendly, and they pride themselves on their warm Shetland welcome.