Scotland's Shetland Islands

Intrepid Travel · 6 days

3.4

7 Reviews

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Duration

6 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Discover the many charms of the Shetland Islands on a small group adventure featuring dramatic coastlines, towering sea cliffs, wildlife and history.

Highlights

Visit Shetland for stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and a unique blend of Norse heritage and vibrant culture. Settle in Lerwick, charming, historic capital, with narrow, winding streets and a picturesque harbor.
Learn of Shetland’s Norse history dating back to the 8th century, with Viking settlers shaping its culture, language, and place names. The heritage is seen in archaeological sites and traditions as well as the Shetland Museum.
Uncover the ancient ruins of Jarlshof, a remarkable archaeological site, before hiking to Sumburgh Head for breathtaking coastal views and seabird colonies.
Keep a lookout for sea and native birdlife on a private daytrip to Hermaness Nature Reserve and Muckle Flugga Lighthouse – the most northerly point in the United Kingdom.
Discover Eshaness, where dramatic sea cliffs, crashing waves, and rich history make it a must-visit destination.

Trip Details

Duration

6 days

Transportation

Public transport,private vehicle and on foot.

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Lerwick, United Kingdom

Finishes

Lerwick, United Kingdom

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Lerwick

Welcome to Scotland! Meet your guide and fellow travellers at 6 pm at the guesthouse. If you arrive in Shetland's largest town earlier, take a stroll along the harbour to get a feel for the place. Founded in the 17th century to service Dutch herring fleets, Lerwick is rich in history, with charming streets and historic buildings to explore. Ask your guide for some dinner recommendations, and perhaps end your first day at a local pub, soaking in the atmosphere.

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Sumburgh / Lerwick

After breakfast, meet to catch the public bus to Sumburgh, where we’ll begin a scenic hike to the historic Jarlshof site, rich in archaeological discoveries from the Iron Age to the Vikings. As we explore this fascinating site, we’ll learn about the ancient settlers who once called this land home. Continuing along the rugged coastline, we make our way to the Sumburgh Head lighthouse, where we’ll delve into the area’s maritime history, from early Iron Age inhabitants to the lighthouse keepers who protected sailors for centuries. After a day of stunning coastal views and historical exploration, we return to Lerwick in the late afternoon, leaving you free to explore. Start by taking a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to get your bearings, then try out one of the town's many bustling eateries.

Included Activities:

Sumburgh - Jarlshof and Sumburgh Head Hike

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Lerwick

Start your day with a visit to the Shetland Museum, where your guide will take you through this captivating cultural hub that celebrates the islands' rich history and heritage. With engaging exhibits and world-renowned collections, the museum takes you on a journey through Shetland’s past, from its ancient Norse origins to its maritime legacy. The islands' unique traditions, craftsmanship, and wildlife are also beautifully showcased, making it a true must-see. Later, join your guide for a walking tour of Lerwick, exploring the town's most notable sights. As the capital of Shetland, Lerwick grew rapidly during the 1800s herring boom, becoming a bustling port. Its name, "Harbour of the Cairn," reflects its strategic maritime location. Over time, Lerwick has developed into a vibrant town, blending Scottish and Norse influences. Today, its narrow streets are lined with historic buildings, offering a glimpse into its rich maritime past. The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the lively harbour town at your own pace, perhaps visit the Lerwick Brewery to sample some local ales. For dinner, relax at one of Lerwick’s cozy pubs.

Included Activities:

Lerwick - Leader led Walking Tour
Lerwick - Shetland Museum Tour

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Muckle Flugga / Lerwick

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a private minibus journey to the Hermaness Nature Reserve, where we’ll hike to the Muckle Flugga Lighthouse, the northernmost point of the United Kingdom. In fact, Shetland is actually closer to Norway than to mainland Scotland, located just 170 miles north of Scotland and around 200 miles from Norway. This proximity is reflected in Shetland’s strong Norse heritage, with the islands having been part of the Norse Kingdom for centuries before joining Scotland in the 15th century. Muckle Flugga Lighthouse is located on Muckle Flugga, a small rocky islet off the coast of Unst, the northernmost island in Shetland. Built in 1854, the lighthouse stands at the edge of the cliffs, guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the North Sea. Its strategic location was particularly important during the Crimean War, when it helped protect British vessels. Returning to Lerwick late afternoon.

Included Activities:

Shetland - Hermaness Nature Reserve and Muckle Flugga private trip

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Eshness / Lerwick

Today, travel by private minibus as we head north to Eshaness for a scenic hike. Eshaness is a rugged and stunning coastal area in Shetland, known for its dramatic sea cliffs, volcanic history, and abundant wildlife. As you walk, keep an eye out for seals and otters that inhabit the area. Geologists believe that Eshaness was once a volcanic area, with its dramatic cliffs and rocky landscape formed by ancient volcanic activity. It’s a fascinating example of how natural processes have created Shetland’s unique scenery. For your final evening meal in Lerwick, consider joining your group at a local eatery to share stories from the week and enjoy a memorable meal together.

Included Activities:

Eshaness - Coastal Hike

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Lerwick

With no activities planned for the day, your adventure will conclude after breakfast. If you'd like to extend your stay on the islands, contact your booking agent in advance to arrange additional accommodation. For those wishing to continue exploring Scotland, consider joining one of our other adventures on the mainland or the Orkney Islands, just reach out to your booking agent for more details.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $3,055

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 6 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Discover the many charms of the Shetland Islands on a small group adventure featuring dramatic coastlines, towering sea cliffs, wildlife and history.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 24 May 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

2.5

Rosanna

Traveled, September 2023

09/15/2023

Don’t take this trip. It’s not a 2 . Its a 5 and unless you are a fast walker you quickly become a pariah

4.5

Annette

Traveled, September 2023

10/09/2023

My husband and I did a tour to Shetland mid September 2023. Everything about this trip was amazing. We had an excellent tour guide - Fiona. The activities were well planned. and we were lucky to have perfect weather and a great group of fellow travellers. There was a good mix of walks, hikes, museums, looking at nature, free time and custom bus tours. Be prepared for some walks that are long uphill and or on rocky terrain. We highly recommend this tour.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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