2025 Shetland Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

#timetotravel Scalloway Castle, perched on the rugged shores of Shetland in the United Kingdom, is a historical jewel with a haunting allure. This castle, built in 1600 by the tyrannical Earl Patrick Stewart, tells tales of power, betrayal, and resistance. Walking through its weathered stone walls, I was transported back to a time when Shetland was a hub for trade and political intrigue. The castle's strategic location overlooking the harbor adds to its mystique. Inside, you'll find glimpses of the past in the form of eerie dungeons, a grand hall, and a tower that once served as a stronghold. It's a place where history comes to life, and you can almost hear the echoes of the past. Scalloway Castle's proximity to the charming village of Scalloway makes it an ideal stop for history buffs and those seeking a deeper understanding of Scotland's tumultuous past. It's a captivating journey into a bygone era.

#mytraveldiary Ponies have been around Shetland for at least 4,000 years, adapted to the harsh and unforgiving climate. Stocky and hardy, Shetland ponies roam the islands as they please, though they are all owned and cared for. They definitely seemed to be in charge in Foula. They would have been used to work the land back in the day, from pulling and hauling carts, plowing, and other farm-related activities that I clearly have no idea about. Eventually, they were exported to Britain and overseas to work in the coal mines to haul coal underground. #travel #thingstodo #unitedkingdom

#holidayitinerary Sumburgh Head is an awesome little adventure if you’re into wildlife and big coastal views. It’s super easy to reach by car, right at the southern tip of mainland Shetland, and the drive there is already pretty scenic. Once you're up at the lighthouse, the cliffs just drop into the sea and the views go on forever. We went mainly for the puffins and yep, they were everywhere. Little guys just chilling on the edges, totally unbothered by humans. There’s a visitor centre and a small café near the lighthouse, so you can grab a coffee and enjoy it with that wild ocean backdrop. The walking paths around the headland are easy and open, just watch your step near the edges. Even if the weather's a bit moody (which it probably will be), it adds to the atmosphere. Binoculars are handy if you’ve got them. Sumburgh is peaceful, full of birds, and totally worth a stop if you’re exploring Shetland.

#holidayitinerary Sumburgh Head is an awesome little adventure if you’re into wildlife and big coastal views. It’s super easy to reach by car, right at the southern tip of mainland Shetland, and the drive there is already pretty scenic. Once you're up at the lighthouse, the cliffs just drop into the sea and the views go on forever. We went mainly for the puffins and yep, they were everywhere. Little guys just chilling on the edges, totally unbothered by humans. There’s a visitor centre and a small café near the lighthouse, so you can grab a coffee and enjoy it with that wild ocean backdrop. The walking paths around the headland are easy and open, just watch your step near the edges. Even if the weather's a bit moody (which it probably will be), it adds to the atmosphere. Binoculars are handy if you’ve got them. Sumburgh is peaceful, full of birds, and totally worth a stop if you’re exploring Shetland.

✨ The Shetland Islands are located in northern Scotland, a paradise far away from the hustle and bustle of the world. 🌈 The islands boast spectacular coastlines, where towering cliffs meet the azure sea. The waves crash against the rocks, creating a thunderous roar that seems to tell ancient stories. 🐦 The islands are also a haven for seabirds, with countless adorable birds soaring through the sky, adding a touch of vitality to this tranquil land. 🏘 The towns on the islands exude a strong Nordic charm, with colorful houses scattered in an orderly manner. Strolling through the streets of the town, you can feel the tranquility and harmony. 💃 Here, time seems to slow down, allowing you to fully enjoy the gifts of nature. Whether it's watching a stunning sunset over the sea or daydreaming by the shore, your soul will experience an unprecedented sense of relaxation. 💕 The Shetland Islands are a place that will make you never want to leave once you arrive. Come and embark on a dreamy journey here! 💞

The light and colors tell the story of the changing seasons in the Shetland Islands. As the sun gradually approaches the horizon, the intense and clear summer light is replaced by a golden hue, casting a golden glow over the land and deepening the shadows. The strong winds stir up the turbulent sea, with waves spraying in the wind, and the saturated sky is painted with the colors of the sunset, making one feel as if they are floating in a world of ever-changing weather. Local folklore says that the equinox storms are caused by a great battle in the deep sea. It is said that the sea goddess rules the ocean during the summer. She banishes the storm bringer, Tran, to the depths of the sea so that he does not cause too much disruption to the lives of the islanders. The sea goddess is a gentle ruler, responsible for creating clear weather, ensuring bountiful harvests from the sea, and protecting fishermen. By the end of summer, she becomes exhausted, and Tran strives to regain control, resulting in fierce storms. The emerald waves crash against our coastline, seemingly ignited from within. On cloudy days, mist shrouds the mountains, casting a gray pall over the world, and the sea becomes a place to seek color. Due to the scarcity of trees, some signs of autumn are not obvious here, but a closer look at our landscape reveals a rich tapestry of color changes. As the last wildflowers wither, the hills take on golden and brown hues, interwoven with deep green moss. Countless fungi can be found here, ranging from vibrant reds and yellows to delicate pearly whites. Although many of our areas may lack trees, there are still places where one can experience the magic of autumn woodland walks. When the moonlight casts rainbows on the clouds and the auroras dance in the sky, even the darkness of winter is imbued with color. We call the auroras 'mirrie dancers,' with 'mirr' meaning blurred. They indeed look like dancing figures, their edges blurred as they blend into the night sky. They usually shimmer with silvery-green light, but sometimes higher lights emit red, and on very active nights, purple hues can be seen. Part of the beauty of the auroras lies in their elusive nature. Although solar activity that causes auroras can be tracked, their impact on the sky is unpredictable and often depends on local weather. There is nothing more joyous than stepping outside on a cold, clear night and unexpectedly discovering the starry sky shimmering with dancing colors.

If you're looking for a paradise away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Busta House Hotel in the Shetland Islands, Scotland, is your ideal choice. This historic country hotel not only offers a home-like warmth, but also opens a door to natural and cultural wonders. 🏡16th-century noble estate, modern star Enjoy Busta House Hotel was once a 16th-century noble estate, and after years of baptism, it has now become a 3-star hotel full of historical charm. The hotel is located in Brae, central and northern Shetland, from where you can easily reach Shetland's main town, Lerwick, and explore the rich local history and culture, such as the famous Shetland Museum and Archives. 🌅The hotel's design retains the simplicity and style of ancient architecture, while also having modern comfort facilities. Whether you're interested in archaeology, geology, or flora and fauna, Busta can provide you with an ideal base for exploration. You can think of this as your "home" on the island, setting off from here every day to explore the island's wonderful landscapes and unique customs. 🏨Unique accommodation experience and attentive service Busta House Hotel offers a variety of room types to meet the needs of different travelers. Whether you're a couple, a family traveler, or a solo traveler looking for peace and quiet, there's a choice for you: there's a deluxe room, a four-poster double room, a sea view room, and a single room. Each room is equipped with modern facilities and offers breakfast and dinner services, using fresh local ingredients to bring you an authentic Scottish dining experience. Whether you're a vegetarian, gluten-free, or have other dietary needs, Busta House can prepare exclusive delicious meals for you. 🍾Comfortable wine cellar with over 200 whiskies If a day of exploration has left you exhausted, relax in the hotel's Long Room. Enjoy a quiet moment by the peat fire with a glass of Scotch whisky. With over 200 whiskies in the collection, whether you're a whisky lover or a novice, you'll find the one that suits your taste. 🏞️More than just accommodation Busta is not just a place to rest, it is the ideal starting point for your exploration of the Shetland Islands. The Shetland Islands are famous for their unique natural landscapes and rich history and culture, and Busta House is located in the center of exploring these wonders. Whether you're interested in hiking, wildlife, archaeology, or geology, every piece of land in the Shetland Islands is waiting for you to explore, and Busta House Hotel will be your strongest backing. ©BustaHouseHotel

#timetotravel Scalloway Museum, nestled in the heart of Scalloway village in the Shetland Islands, is a treasure trove of local history and a testament to the vibrant spirit of these remote isles. Upon entering, I was welcomed by warm, knowledgeable staff who shared captivating stories of Scalloway's past, from its days as a bustling herring fishing hub to its role during World War II. The exhibits were thoughtfully curated, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the island's history to life. One standout was the "Shetland Bus" exhibit, which honors the brave men who operated clandestine missions between Shetland and Nazi-occupied Norway during WWII. Scalloway Museum not only educates but also evokes a deep sense of respect for the resilient Shetland community. With its quaint harbor views and charming surroundings, it's a must-visit for anyone exploring these remote, storied islands.