Shetland Islands might be the 'last untamed corner of the UK.
Day 1: Cruise the Sea, Ride the Breeze
Our journey starts in Edinburgh. We'll see the iconic Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site erected in 1889. En route, a glimpse of Arbroath Abbey reminds us of Scotland's struggle for independence in the Declaration of Arbroath from 1320. Arriving at the port of Aberdeen, we'll board our cruise ship bound for the Shetland Islands, set to arrive the following morning.
Day 2: The North Sea's Beating Heart
As we step off the cruise, our Shetland adventure begins in earnest. Our first stop is Lerwick, the island's capital. Lerwick welcomes with its centuries-old architecture and culture, where Shetland knitting, an ancient craft indigenous to the islands, awaits discovery. Our journey delves further back in time to a New Stone Age settlement, an archaeological site spanning 40,000 years. Don't miss the iconic Sumburgh Lighthouse, constructed in 1821 by Robert Stevenson, the oldest lighthouse in Shetland. Cap your day with a visit to Lerwick Beach, a sanctuary for the ever-relaxing seals.
Day 3: Expansive Landscapes, Vast Seascape
Indulge in the soft seashells of St. Ninian's Ayre, where Shetland unveils its unique seascape. A coastline sandwiched between azure waters. The journey continues along the mesmerising 1,697-mile coastline of Eshaness, where cliffs stand as captivating landmarks. Witness the sheer force of waves crashing against ancient rocks.
Day 4: The Northernmost Point and Viking Legacy
Reaching the true northernmost point of the UK. The Muckle Flugga lighthouse perches atop a small rocky outcrop at the northern edge of Unst's Hermaness peninsula, a place of epic cliffs, puffin colonies, and rookeries of seabirds. Unst, the northernmost inhabited island in the British Isles, holds concentrated evidence of Viking raiders and Norse occupation. The Viking Unst archaeological project unearthed three Viking longhouses, offering a glimpse into the past. On this adventure, you'll also encounter the loneliest and last bus stop, a testament to a father's love for his daughter.
The best time to see puffins is from April to July
Day 5: Graceful Ponies, Stunning Beaches
Pet the charming Shetland ponies that have roamed these islands' exposed hills and wilderness for over 4,000 years. These hardy creatures have adapted to the harsh Shetland environment. A stroll along Minn Beach leads to Kettla Ness, a wild headland populated by seals, Arctic skuas, and Arctic terns. Our cruise back to Aberdeen concludes this enchanting day.
Day 6: Though it Ends, it Never Truly Ends
Upon disembarking, we venture to Dunnottar Castle, a majestic 14th-century fortress dramatically perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the coastline. Our final destination is St. Andrews, the birthplace of world golf and a spiritual centre of Scotland. A pilgrimage site for golf enthusiasts worldwide, it's a fitting conclusion to our journey before returning to Edinburgh.
