Thinking about heading to the Shetland Islands? You're in for an unforgettable journey to one of Scotland’s most unique corners. With Norse history, epic coastlines, and those famously fuzzy ponies, there's so much to love—but fair warning: Shetland has its quirks too. Here's a friendly, honest look at the 5 things to love and the 5 things that might drive you a little bonkers when visiting Shetland.
❤️ 5 Things to Love About Visiting Shetland
1. Wild, Windy, Wonderful Nature
Shetland’s rugged natural beauty is on a whole other level. You’ll find dramatic cliffs, sea-carved coastlines, remote beaches, and moody moorlands that are just begging for a good hike. Whether you’re walking the cliffs at Eshaness or soaking in the silence at Sumburgh Head, you’ll be surrounded by pure, raw scenery—and likely no crowds in sight.
2. A Deep History Set in Stone
Step back thousands of years at ancient sites like Jarlshof, where layers of Bronze Age, Norse, and Pictish history are stacked like a time-travel sandwich. You’ll also spot traditional croft houses, stone walls, and Iron Age brochs across the islands—living proof of Shetland’s rich heritage. History here doesn’t just whisper—it sings through the stones.
3. The Locals are Pure Gold
The people of Shetland are some of the warmest and most welcoming you’ll meet. Whether you’re chatting in a cozy café or calling a museum that’s technically closed (and they open it just for you—yes, that happens), you’ll feel the genuine hospitality of island life. Friendly, helpful, and always up for a story, Shetlanders are a big reason visitors fall in love with the place.
4. That Viking Vibe is Still Alive
Shetland's Norse roots aren’t just ancient history—they’re alive and burning (literally) at Up Helly Aa, the epic Viking fire festival every January. Locals don Viking costumes, parade through Lerwick with flaming torches, and set a longship ablaze in a ceremony that looks straight out of a movie. Even if you miss the festival, you’ll still feel the Norse legacy all around—from the language to the place names.
5. Ponies, Puffins, and Adorable Wildlife
This one’s a crowd favorite: Shetland ponies are real, they’re ridiculously cute, and yes, they actually live here. You’ll also spot fluffy lambs, curious seals, otters, and seabirds galore—including puffins! Come spring and summer, those clownish little birds nest along Shetland’s cliffs, adding a magical touch to coastal hikes. Wildlife lovers, rejoice.
😬 5 Things You Might Hate (Just a Little)
1. The Weather Can Be a Drama Queen
Let’s not sugarcoat it—Shetland’s weather is unpredictable, windy, and often wet. Even in summer, it can feel more like autumn. Fog might roll in mid-hike, and rain can show up uninvited. Locals shrug it off (they’ve seen worse), but if you’re not into layers, waterproof jackets, and wind-whipped hair, it might be a bit of a shock.
2. That Tricky Ferry Situation
Getting to Shetland isn’t a quick hop. The overnight ferry from Aberdeen takes about 12 hours, and the cabins book up fast. Miss out and you’ll be sleeping in an airplane-style seat surrounded by strangers. If you're planning to bring a car (recommended), be sure to reserve early or prepare for a bumpy night at sea. Yes, there are flights—but they often don’t match the flexibility of driving.
3. You’ll Be Doing a Lot of Backtracking
Many of Shetland’s best sights are at the end of single-lane roads. That means you’ll drive to a spot—say a lighthouse, ruin, or cliff—then have to drive the same way back. Some travelers find this repetitive, especially on longer routes. But hey, the views are good enough to enjoy twice, right?
4. Limited Public Transport = Rental Car Required
If you're not renting a car, your options are slim. Public buses exist, but they’re limited, especially when it comes to reaching the more remote areas. And driving? It's on the left, often on narrow single-track roads with passing places. Add to that the fact most rentals are manual and you’ve got a challenge for less confident drivers. Plan ahead—and reserve that automatic early!
5. The Accent is Thick (and That's Saying Something)
Scottish accents can be strong, but the Shetland accent is in a league of its own. Influenced by Old Norse and shaped by island life, it can be tricky to understand even for native Scots. Don’t worry—locals know this and are patient, friendly, and totally okay with repeating themselves. Just smile, nod, and embrace the musical rhythm of a dialect that’s part of Shetland’s charm.
Shetland: Worth the Wind? You Bet
The Shetland Islands might not be the easiest place to reach, and they definitely have their quirks—but that’s what makes them magical. If you're into breathtaking scenery, genuine locals, and ancient stories written in stone (and maybe a pony selfie or two), Shetland will steal your heart—weather and all.
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