North Mainland Tour Highlights
Get a feel for Shetland’s landscape
Heading north from Lerwick, we pass through the picturesque community of Voe, with its Scandinavian influence. We also drive through Brae, a settlement that grew during the oil boom in the 1970s. We then cross Mavis Grind, where the North Sea almost touches the Atlantic Ocean. With every mile further north, the landscape and coastline becomes ever more spectacular. We then reach the Drongs, a group of stunning sea stacks, for a photo opportunity.
Learn about the life of a laird
We pay a visit to Tangwick Haa Museum, once a 17th century laird’s house. The museum tells the story of the people of Northmavine in the North Mainland of Shetland and gives a compelling glimpse into how Shetlanders used to live.
Marvel at volcanic wonders
The tour then takes you on to the awe-inspiring cliffs of Eshaness, where fire and ice of volcano and glacier have forged Shetland’s world-famous geology. You will have a chance to explore the nearby area, which includes stacks, blowholes and geos (narrow inlets).
Enjoy Eshaness Lighthouse
Perched atop the dramatic cliffs of Eshaness is Eshaness Lighthouse. Designed by renowned engineers the Stevenson brothers, it was built in 1929 to warn ships of the Ve Skerries – a group of island eight miles from the coast. We will stop and take photos at this scenic spot, which is now self-catering accommodation.
Head into Hillswick
We then drive on to Hillswick, a small village on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean with beautiful views. Here you’ll see one of Shetland’s oldest hotels, as well as Hillswick Wildlife Sanctuary, famed for rescuing seals, otters and other wildlife.
Our tours will begin in Lerwick at 9am unless otherwise agreed. We will collect you from your accommodation or meet you at the Diana Fountain on Victoria Pier. If you are staying out with Lerwick, please let us know and we can make alternative arrangements for collecting you for the tour.
Useful information you need to know ahead of your tour and visit to Shetland:
Group Size
Our small group tours are for groups of up to 4 people. If your group is more than 4 people, please get in touch for further options. We can easily accommodate larger groups subject to vehicle availability.
Vehicle
Vehicles used will be a Kia Sportage. If your group is larger than 4 people, it is possible to hire a larger vehicle to accommodate your group. It is also possible to hire a vehicle suitable for wheelchair access.
Accessibility
If you require wheelchair access, please contact us to discuss your requirements. Some elements of the tours are not suitable for wheelchair users.
Some walking will be required on all tours, but this can be kept to a minimum if necessary.
Weather
The only thing predictable about Shetland weather is that it is unpredictable! Please dress for the outdoors and wear suitable footwear.
Occasionally, it is not always possible to do the tour as described due to the weather. We will contact you in advance should there be any issues.
Exclusive Tours
All tours will be private unless otherwise specified in the tour description. We will not sell tickets to other people as there is no way to socially distance at this time. This also gives us more options if you wish to make the tour longer and tailored to suit your needs.
Inclusions
All entrance fees are included in the price, however, food/drink is an additional cost. If you would like to extend the length of the tour and include refreshments/lunch, please do not hesitate to ask.
Cancellation Policy
If cancellations are made within 24 hours of the tour beginning, the full amount of the tour will be charged.
If you cancel more than 24 hours before the start of the tour, your payment will be refunded minus £25 per transaction to cover commission and admin fees.
Cruise ship passengers:
Please note if your ship fails to call to Lerwick due to bad weather or itinerary changes, this will be treated as a late cancellation and the full cost of your tour will be charged.
Currently, there is no requirement to wear a face covering. If you wish to wear one and also wish for myself to wear one, please just ask.
Island Vista will ensure that:
- Hand sanitiser is available throughout the tour.
- The vehicle is thoroughly cleaned before and after the tour.
- Windows will be open where possible to ensure ventilation.
- Hand wipes and gloves are available if required.
