5 Things to do on the Shetland Islands

Karen Bryan, editor of the Europe a la Carte Blog, highlights six things to do on the beautiful Shetland Islands. 

I visited the Shetland Islands for the first time at the end of May 2010 and I was in awe of the natural beauty of the islands. I have to add that I was very fortunate with the weather, which was mainly dry and bright.  Here are five things I enjoyed doing on the Shetlands.

1. Take a Boat Trip to Noss Island 

I went on the Seabirds and Seals trip on a calm, sunny morning (the heavens opened that afternoon).  We spent some time in a sea cave looking at live video from an underwater camera.  We even saw a minkie whale, as well as plenty of gannets, terns, guillemots and seals.  There are two seats at the top of the boat where you get the best views but miss the commentary.  I'm inclined to slight sea sickness and felt this most when I was up on the observation deck when the boat was anchored. 

2. Walk along Eshaness Cliffs 

The spectacular Eshaness Cliffs contain of the oldest rocks on Britain, estimated age 3 billion years.  I parked near the lighthouse and walked northward for a around a mile, as close to the cliff edge as I dared.  If you have time there's a three hour six kilometre Eshaness circular walk returning on an inland route by lochs. I didn't have time to do this,  The Braewick Cafe is a good spot for refreshments with great views of the Drongs seastacks, 

3. Buy some Shetland knitwear 

The Spiders Web in Commercial Street Lerwick has a wide selection of real Shetland knitwear.   It's not just sweaters, I saw lovely shoulder bags, hats and even a mobile phone holder. 

4. Go to St Ninian's beach The stretch of beach from the Shetland mainland to St Ninian's Isle has sea on both sides (officially called a tombola).  This has got to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK or even Europe. 

5. Read some poetry Chances are you'll need to visit one of the many public toilets during your stay on the Shetland Islands, where you can appreciate Bards in the Bog. This is original poetry on display at the back of the cubicle doors. My favourite was Deep Fried Flip Flops. You may also enjoy my Shetland Island photo tour. Getting there You can book flights to Shetland Islands (Sumburgh) Airport and stay one of the hotels in Lerwick.