An 'accessible wilderness' is how the Shetland Islands have been described, which is somewhat accurate considering their nearest foreign neighbour is in Norway. Bird lovers, nature enthusiasts and people retreating from the busy world alike admire this group of over one hundred islands. Being kept awake by booming nightclubs isn't likely here: the sounds of seals 'singing' on a nearby beach are the only possible disturbances that visitors may face on a coach trip to Shetland.
More than a million birds have made this spectacular setting their home, making bird watching one of Shetland's most obvious visitor activities. Boat trips offer the chance to sail right alongside the bird-smothered cliffs, but if that doesn't suit then head off on a stunning walk and take in historic sites and Shetland ponies on the way. There are plenty of other opportunities to be had too, including cycling, shopping for knitwear, treating your ears to the music of a Shetland fiddle and even scuba diving!
- Shetland is rich in archaeological sites, from standing stones to remains of ancient settlements. Mousa Broch (a 2,000-year old Iron Age tower) has been named as Scotland's top visitor attraction and is a must-see on a Scottish holiday to Shetland.