Shetlands: Land of the Vikings

Shetlands: Land of the Vikings

From £1150
8 days Choose your hiking level from easy to hard

Guided or Self-guided tour of the Shetlands: set off to discover the wilderness and Viking culture, all in a cottage!

A full connection awaits you in the Shetlands! Halfway between Scotland and Norway, the Shetland Islands form the northernmost region of Great Britain. Here, there are mostly names with "Son" rather than "Mac" because the archipelago was under Scandinavian and Viking domination until 1469. But sheep and ponies are not the archipelago’s only attractions, quite the contrary! This itinerary will allow you to discover the history of the Picts and the Vikings through many historical sites, beautiful hikes to discover this preserved nature where you can observe many migratory birds and marine mammals. Finally, you will be accommodated in a cottage throughout your stay to rest and fully enjoy the surrounding nature!

You will like...

Meet history

Discovering the history of the Picts and the Vikings through exceptional historical sites

The best local addresses

Tasting the archipelago’s delicious cuisine: lamb, beef and seafood!

Trek the best landscapes

Going hiking on several islands and peninsulas of this magical archipelago: Eshaness, Unst, Lunna...

Birds, birds, birds !

Observing migratory birds such as puffins, gannets, guillemots!

Trip Itinerary

Check out or itinerary, don't forget we can customize this trip ! We can’t wait to show you around!

Day 1 - Let's go for the adventure in Scotland!
Arrival in Lerwick (Via Edinburgh, Glasgow or London), the capital of the Shetland Islands. Depending on your arrival time, you can discover the genuine city of the Shetlands and its beautiful natural harbour. Check-in in Lerwick area where you will be accommodated throughout your stay.
Day 2 - Eshaness Peninsula
Today, we head west from Shetland Isle to the wild Eshaness Peninsula, which is known for its cliffs and incredible volcanic rock formations. Here, the ocean crashes on the rocks and has even ended up digging a fault called “geo”. On our hike, we will discover the famous lighthouse built by the Stevensons, the rocky peaks and several caves. This day is a wonderful introduction to the geology of the Shetlands.
Day 3 - Unst Island
Next, we’ll go north to Unst, the northernmost island of the Shetlands, a land of jagged contours. We will explore the Hermaness Bird Reserve, an ideal place to admire the many species of migratory birds that come to nest in these splendid islands, such as puffins, gannets, fulmars, guillemots and many others. A 7 km loop leads you to superb 180-metre high cliffs which will be the perfect place to spend a little time. Don’t forget your binoculars! Also, don’t miss Bobby’s bus shelter at the junction to Little Hamar just north of Baltasound, which is the most amazing bus shelter in the kingdom! It pays tribute to Bobby, a 7-year-old boy, who used to ride his bike to the shelter in the morning to catch the bus to school. The stop was supposed to be removed in 1996, but Bobby was able to overturn the local council’s decision by sending a letter! Beautiful seats, books, decorations and a guestbook are present, and the decoration changes every year!
Day 4 - Mousa Fort and Sumburgh Point
After the North, we’ll head South! First, we will take the boat to the island of Mousa for a visit. You will be able to observe seals lying on the shore and a small group of Shetland ponies. It will also be an opportunity to visit the famous Iron Age Tower. This unique tower is over 2000 years old and in perfect condition! Then, in the afternoon, we’ll go to the most southern point of the Shetlands – Sumburgh Head and its famous lighthouse! The lighthouse was built by Scottish civil engineer Robert Stevenson in 1821. The light was automated in 1991. The lighthouse is adjacent to the keepers’ one-storey houses, which have been converted into holiday homes. This is the oldest lighthouse in the Shetlands.
Day 5 - Lunna Peninsula
Today, we will set off to the North East of the Shetlands to explore the Lunna Peninsula and appreciate the sublime contrasts between the cliffs and the green of the flora, mixed with the blue of the sea that looks like a fairy tale. Another opportunity to observe seals and otters (more fearful). We’ll end with a bit of history and a visit to Scalloway Castle, former capital of the Shetlands dating back to the 16th century
Day 6 - Fethaland
Today, we’ll go to the northern tip of Shetland Island, a beautiful, remote and wild region. We will visit a fishing port dating from the 19th century through a coastal walk to enjoy pristine nature once again.
Day 7 - Saint Ronas
Today, we’ll set off to conquer Shetland’s highest peak. This granite mountain is remarkably interesting geologically, there are also rare plants and the view from the top is simply magical.
Day 8 - Return flight and end of your adventure
Off to the airport for baggage check-in and flight home.


N.B. : The program is given for information only. The stages can be modified on site for meteorological, security, organizational, flight schedule or any unexpected event reasons. In these difficult times, the local guide will do their utmost to mitigate the effects of these events beyond our control.

Itinerary Map

Pricing Chart

Our “from” price is based on mid-season prices and for a group of 8 people.

Comfort
From
£ 1150/person
Gold
From
£ 1550/person
4 star hotel
From
£ 1950/person

What's included ?

What's not included ?

Like what you see ?
“Wow! It is far away, but well worth it. The viking heritage, the wildlife and the scenery makes you forget all your worries. We were guided by Mike who was awesome!”
Hugh (England)
May 2019
“Spectacular scenery in this remote natural haven. We were told September is a good month for Scotland and it is true... Nice cosy house with a fire for a week. We enjoyed our trip very much and I am happy to recommend this trip to anyone.”
Louise (Denmark)
June 2019

Related Self-Guided Tours in Scotland

Check out some of our tour ideas to discover Scotland. We can’t wait to show you around!

From £999
SELF-GUIDED TOUR

The wonders of the highlands by campervan

Road trip to discover the must-see and secret sites!
From £299
SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Beautiful Arran, a miniature Scotland

Enjoy an island of peace and tranquility
From £949
SELF-GUIDEd TOUR

Multi-outdoor sports adventure

Adventure Sports and Discovery of Scotland in 8 Days
Comments are closed.
Open chat
Hello !
My name is Tom, can I help you ?