Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about visiting the Shetland Islands of Scotland. If you’ve watched the Shetland TV series, it’s not full of murders and crazy crimes. But if you’re visiting the Shetland Islands for the first time, there are some shocks you should expect!
Lack of Trees
You may not notice right away because the landscape is so beautiful, but there are no trees in the Shetland Islands! You may see a few in people’s gardens, but naturally, there are not any trees because of the wind and soil makeup. There is a great variety of geology and fantastic scenery in all areas, but if you’re looking for forests to wander in, you won’t find them here.
Stone Buildings
Without trees, there is no wood, so most buildings in the Shetland Islands are made of stone. The Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement is probably one of the most popular places to visit in the Shetland Islands and it’s a great example of the ancient stone architecture that is symbolic of the region. You’ll also see more “modern” stone buildings as well, that are only a couple hundred years old!
Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Visiting the Shetland Islands
Shetland Islands Airport
Whether you fly in or take the Shetland Islands ferries, there’s a shock for you at the airport. There’s a public road that actually crosses the runway! Don’t worry, there’s a gate that will stop you if there are aircraft approaching. It’s kind of fun and unique to drive across an active runway.
Shetland Islands Ferry Life
There are around 100 islands that make up the Shetland Islands, so ferries are a way of life out here. From the mainland, you can take a ferry from Aberdeen, which takes about 12 hours. If you want a cabin on the ferry, you have to book ahead or you’ll be cramped in a regular seat. Even on the inter-island ferries, you should book ahead because they can sell out. If you are prone to seasickness, make sure you bring some medication!
Empty Islands
Of the 100 or so islands here, only about 15 are inhabited. Even those that are inhabited may be pretty sparse, with one or two small settlements. Even the most populated islands will feel empty after 5:00 as most shops shut down pretty early in the day. Shop hours are pretty much 9 to 5 every day, so plan ahead if you are going to do any shopping!
Shetland Islands Weather
The weather in the Shetland Islands can shock you. Specifically, the fog. It sneaks up on you, just like in horror movies. Seemingly out of nowhere, you can be enjoying a nice sunny day, and then you’re surrounded by fog. The temperatures are fairly mild and it doesn’t get super cold, but it does get super windy. The summers aren’t super warm, either. No matter when you visit the Shetland Islands, make sure you pack lots of layers.
Shetland Ponies
Yes, those cute little furry ponies are from the Shetland Islands. You’ll see them all over the islands, grazing and looking cute. Don’t feed them or try to pet them, but feel free to take photos of these iconic animals! Puffins, seals, otters, and sheep are some of the other common animals you’ll see in the Shetland Islands.
Shetland Island Locals
Scottish people in general are pretty awesome and friendly, but even more so on the Shetland Islands. I last visited with my mom to research our ancestors who lived here, and when people found that out, they jumped to help us. One local even opened up the local museum on a day that it was closed, just so we could check it out! On Sunday afternoons, the local halls will have tea service; this is a great way to meet the locals. Be prepared to do a lot of nodding and smiling, though, as the Scottish accent is quite strong!
Local Cuisine
Most people think of haggis when they think of Scottish food. But the Shetland Islands are all about seafood. Whether you get mussels, scallops, salmon, or monkfish, you will have fantastic seafood. The beef and lamb dishes are also really good.
Scandinavian Influence
You may be in Scotland, but you will notice a very Scandinavian feel to the islands. Until a few hundred years ago, these islands were part of Norway. There are still strong ties, and you’ll probably run into more Norwegian tourists than Scottish tourists. There are direct flights from Norway to the Shetland Islands. If you happen to visit in January, the last Tuesday of the month is Up Helly Aa, a Viking fire festival.
Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!
We will be shocked if you don’t fall in love with the Shetland Islands of Scotland. Scotland is such a beautiful country, and the Shetland Islands are definitely a highlight, especially if you love rugged scenery, sparsely populated islands and unique wildlife. Visit Shetland.org to start planning your trip to the Shetland Islands!
Want more Scotland travel tips?