Shetlands
Travel Scotland Guide to Shetlands
Shetland is so far removed from the rest of Scotland it can only be shown as an inset on maps. In fact, it is easier and quicker to get there from Norway than it is from London. This seems entirely appropriate, for Shetland is historically and culturally closer to Scandinavia than Britain. Many of its place-names are of Norse origin, and people here still celebrate ancient Viking festivals, such as Up Helly-Aa.
Introduction | Lerwick | Around Lerwick | Central Mainland | The Westside | South Mainland | Fair Isle | North Mainland | Whalsay and Out Skerries | Yell,Fetlar and Unst
Modern-day visitors tend to come by plane rather than longboat, and usually bring binoculars, for Shetland is a birdwatchers' paradise. It is home to countless bird species, many of them seeking refuge from the madding crowds. And, let's face it, there's no better place than here to get away from it all.
Shetland has good air connections with the rest of the UK. There are regular flights to and from several maniland airports which are operated aby Britis Airways/Loganair.
NorthLink Ferries, Tel. 0845 6000 449, NorthLink Ferries operate the ferry route to Shetland from the Scottish mainland. This daily service sails between Aberdeen and Lerwick and takes 12 hrs. From Aberdeen, a single passenger fare costs from £20.80 and a single car fare costs from £84.70. Cars should be booked in advance.
NorthLink Ferries also operate a ferry that stops in Orkney before traveling onwards to Shetland. Tel. 0845 6000 449 for further details of timetables and prices.
Shetland has around 500 miles of good roads and an extensive public service links Lerwick with all towns.
The main tourist office is in Lerwick. Websites such as www.visitshetland.com and www.shetland-tourism-co.uk carries links to events, transport, accommodation and local operators.