In late January I went to Shetland and lost my heart. To the rugged hills and white beaches. To the sunlight reflecting in the sea, like millions of golden marbles. To the forceful sea so turquoise and clear. To the friendly people and their lovely accents. To the grey stone houses of Lerwick and the dots of colour in between.
I will talk about the itinerary and highlights of our one-week trip in detail later on, but first – to convince you – 15 photos that will make you want to go to Shetland.
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1) St. Ninian Beach
This beach on the main island of Shetland is just half an hours drive from Lerwick. The waves crash onto the beach from both sides and at low tide you can easily walk in-between them. The water here is so clear that the water is all turquoise – even on a rainy and stormy day like we experienced.
2) On the Roadside
Every car park and every view point is the potential start of a walking trail. Just keep an eye out for signposts.
3) More sheep than men?
Islands up north are notoriously known for having more sheep than people inhabiting them. I’m not sure this is true for Shetland, but the amount of sheep we met on our day tours and walks was definitely impressive!
4) The Force of the Sea
The waves crashing into the cliffs of The Knab, an easy and quick coastal walk in Lerwick. Every now and then a seal head pops up from between the waves. Incredible!
5) A Lighthouse Leading the Way
The lighthouses on Shetland form their own category of beauty. This is a tiny model lighthouse at the car park for Sumburgh Head, the lighthouse at the southernmost part of Shetland’s main island.
6) Candy-coloured Lerwick
Most of Lerwick’s houses are grey and medieval-looking – but here and there you find a speck of colour!
7) The Colours of the Sea
Who would have thought that the Old Town harbour of Lerwick boasts so many colours!
8) Up Helly Aa
The with its biggest celebration in Lerwick is one to add to your bucket list!
9) Grey in Grey
Even though grey is not the most vibrant colour in the spectrum, there is something majestic to the grey stone buildings of Lerwick…
10) The best Fish & Chips
Frankie’s fish & chips is not only the most northerly fish and chip takeaway of the UK, but also won the award for best fish & chips in the country in 2015. Well worth the trip to Brae!
11) Ferry Sunrise
On the ferry from Yell to Unst – make sure to climb to the top for some amazing views!
12) Island Life in Shetland
This. House.
13) Going for a Run
When you’re walking towards the northernmost tip of the island of Unst and a runner appears on the horizon, you can only press the shutter!
14) Only look North
The northernmost point of the island of Unst: Hermaness.
15) Hello Sunrise
Those colours, this sky!
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Shetland spindrift or ferries, ponies always having a Gorgeous hair day, people open polite and industrious. Was too wonderful- as wonderful as the number of sheep!
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Was fortunate to be in Shetland in March this year, just
before you went. It was fun to relive some places and
memories from you video and pictures!!
Thanks for your comment Nanette! I’m glad to hear you’ve also had a great time in Shetland – such a lovely place, isn’t it? 🙂
Wow, beautiful pictures!
Thanks for your comment Michelle! I absolutely loves the Shetland Islands 😀