More than 100 rugged cliff-hemmed islands form Shetland. Severe storms are common in winter, but in summer, the sun may shine for 19 hours.

The main ways to get Shetland are by plane or ferry, though you could also come to Shetland on a private yacht or as part of a cruise. Flights are operated by Loganair, taking just over an hour from Aberdeen and around an hour 20 minutes from Edinburgh and Glasgow. The Northlink ferry from Aberdeen to Lerwick takes around 12 hours and 30 minutes, leaving in the evening and arriving early in the morning. 

The west coast has spectacular scenery, notably the red granite cliffs and blow-holes at Esha-Ness, from where you can see the wave-gnawed stacks of the Drongs and Dore Holm, a huge rock arch.

The northern isles of Yell, Fetlar and Unst have regular, thought weather-dependent, boat connections to Mainland. West of Mainland, Foula has dramatic sea cliffs. There are regular inter-island ferries. Most routes depart from Tingwall, on Central Mainland.

Shetland is one of the best birdwatching areas in Britain. Millions of migrant and local birds can be admired on these islands. Over 340 different species have been recorded passing through Fair Isle, one of the world’s great staging posts.