Overview
From Lerwick, pass through Sandwick en route to Sumburgh. Head north to Sandness and then on to Aith. Pause in Brae en route to Hillswick before reaching North Roe. Pass through Brae on your way to Unst taking in Baltasound and Skaw, Britain’s most northernly point.
Lerwick
Shetland’s main town, Lerwick, has rich history (having been burnt down twice) and today is a bustling sea port with a proud maritime history. Enjoy the harbour, the Shetland Textile Museum and Lerwick Brewery.
Sandwick
Enjoy the character of Sandwick en route to Sumburgh. Take in the lovely beach and clifftop scenery and explore the Sand Lodge near the jetty, which partly dates back to the 1600s.
Sumburgh
Enjoy the stunning coastal scenery at Sumburgh, dotted with bays, inlets, cliffs and beaches. Visit Jarlshof – the remains of the Old House of Sumburgh built in the 16th century. At Sumburgh Head you’ll see the lighthouse designed by Robert Stevenson, first lit in 1861.
Sandness
Take in the lochs dotted across the moorland then sweep down to the coast to visit Sandness. There are some fantastic views across to St. Magnus Bay and Papa Stour. Sandness hosts the Shetlands Wool Week each year.
Aith
Explore the harbour of Aith, home to a small fishing fleet and take in the local industry – where you can see sheepskins being stretched and prepared.
Brae
Brae lies alongside the coast close to Busta Voe, where you can see Busta Pier and has some great views. Busta House, built in the 16th century by the local Laird Thomas Gifford, has some imposing views and now operates as a hotel.
Hillswick
The small village of Hillswick overlooks Ura Firth and leads to the Ness of Hillswick – a headland that resembles a bunch of grapes. Pop into the seal sanctuary or visit The Booth, a café situated in a wing of Hillswick House.
North Roe
Take in the scenery on your way to the crofting township of North Roe which is almost as far north as you can go on the Shetland mainland. Nearby Collafirth Pier is home to small fishing fleet. At Fethaland you can see the remains of the lodges at the once thriving fishing station.
Baltasound
You’ll find Baltasound half way up Unst, the most populated northern island in the Shetlands. Once a hotbed of the Fishing and Whaling industries, Baltasound is a lot less busy today and gives you the chance to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.
Skaw
It’s a long way up – but the not surprisingly quiet beach at Skaw is a wonderful sheltered sandy haven. Keep an eye out for the local birdlife and wildlife and enjoy the wonderful scenery at “Britain’s most northerly”.
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