Islands to Explore

UNST

For a hands-on experience, try the Skidbladner, a replica Viking longship. The boat museum at Haroldswick is another popular stop.

MOUSA

Visit the well preserved Iron Age Mousa Broch. Or sail by night to witness storm petrels returning to their nests.

FAIR ISLE

Owned by the National Trust for Scotland, Fair Isle is known for its jumpers, knitwear, wildflowers and bird observatory

NOSS

A birder’s heaven. Experience the sight, smell and sounds of around 150,000 birds and chicks on the mile long seabird cliffs.

FOULAR

Home to the UK’S second highest sea cliff, Kame, at 1200ft. And look out for the island’s five dramatic peaks.

YELL

One of the best places in Scotland to spot otters. And Breckon and West Sandwick are two beautiful beaches.

FETLAR

Home most of the UK’S rednecked phalarope. June and July is the best time to watch these brightly coloured birds.

BRESSAY

This island boasts a viewpoint, the summit of Ward of Bressay, from which all of Shetland is visible.

WHALSAY

As well as admiring the landscape, keep an eye out for porpoises, dolphins, minke whales and orcas.

PAPA STOUR

Its name is said to come from Old Norse, meaning ‘the big island of priests’ It’s renowned for impressive sea caves and reefs.