Virgin Voyages' guide to Lerwick/Shetland, Scotland
The only town of the Shetland Islands, the northernmost part of the UK, is Lerwick. A windswept harbor town steeped in Norse heritage, here you’ll find a world that blends Viking spirit, rugged island charm and breathtaking untouched landscapes.
The Verdant Crown of the Shetland Islands
The heart and soul of Shetland, Lerwick is a charming seaside town on the eastern coast of the elusive Shetland Islands. Surrounded by the crashing waves of the palatial North Sea, here you can celebrate the area’s lengthy Norse history by exploring the Shetland museum, visiting the still-remaining Iron Age structure Clickimin Broch and strolling past the Lodberries, before heading to Fort Charlotte, a 17th-century fortress now renowned for its panoramic views.
Shore Excursions
Shuffling Around Shetland
Lush landscapes, Viking valor & whimsical wildlife.
Explore Shetland by E-Bike
Start with a climb up to Wormdale, where you'll see the rolling hills of West Mainland that lie across The Firth. Next, you'll head towards the lush and beautiful Tingwall Valley and continue along the Scalloway Waterfront, a picturesque area dominated by the ruins of Scalloway Castle. The tour will have ample opportunities for photos and, of course, enough exercise to put some pep in your step.
Hike St. Ninian's Isle
Drive along the rolling hills and rugged coastline of the Shetland Mainland before embarking on your walk along St. Ninian's shell sand tombolo, the largest active tombolo in the UK. (FYI - a tombolo is a narrow strip of sand or land that connects an island to the mainland!) Your local guide on this walk will entertain you with tales about Shetland's culture and heritage as you take in the stunning and remote beauty around you.
Seabirds and Seals: Noss Island Catamaran Cruise
On board a catamaran, you'll sail around Noss National Nature Reserve, a a birdwatchers' paradise on the uninhabited Isle of Noss. Though wildlife sightings aren't guaranteed, it's likely you'll spot an astonishing array of bird species. Near the iconic rock arch and in the water surrounding the island, starfish, crabs, sea urchins, sea anemones, and jellyfish live in harmony with grey and harbor seals. Return to port with a camera roll full of memories in one of Europe's finest wildlife sites.
More Shore Things for your wishlist...
We have even more in our curated catalog.
The perfect home – and hillsides – to roam
The Shetland Islands are home to over 5,000 wild Shetland ponies.
The only town on the archipelago of Shetland, Lerwick has grown immensely since its creation as an unofficial marketplace for Dutch herring fleets in the 17th century. While many of the sandstone buildings still stand, many more have been added, allowing for visitors to get a taste of old world Scotland with new world amenities – like the Lerwick Brewery. Visit one of Shetland’s amazing beaches, kayak, explore the labyrinth of sea caves and witness a broad spectrum of wildlife, from Orca whales to Shetland ponies.
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