Renowned broadcaster and wildlife enthusiast Kate Humble, a regular visitor to the islands for almost two decades, picks her five "must see" places and "must do" activities in Shetland.
The unique, geology, volcanic landscape and dramatic cliffs at Eshaness in Northmavine, are not only beautiful, they give you a glimpse in to the ancient past.
“It’s the feeling that you’re walking on land that is 400 million years old, and the spectacular rock formations off the coast, the ever-changing views and that great big sky…”
In the 1950s, a remarkable hoard of treasure was discovered in the chapel on St Ninian's Isle, one of the most spectacular locations in Shetland connected to the South Mainland by a tombolo – glorious strip of white sand with water on both sides.
"It just feels magical. It doesn’t feel quite real. It’s the combination of walking across that white sand tombolo onto the ‘Treasure Island’.
I interviewed Douglas Coutts, who found the treasure. I do think it should be in the Shetland Museum, and I don’t understand why it’s not.”
Replicas of the treasure are held at Shetland Museum and Archives, with the originals in the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.
Kate can't help but be impressed by the sheer amount of incredible attractions and areas of interest so close together near Sumburgh Head.
“It’s just iconic Shetland, the first thing you see when you arrive. Also the lighthouse, which is fascinating, and with Jarlshof at the bottom. The whole southern part of the Mainland sort of encapsulates all that Shetland has – wonderful history, natural history and extraordinary landscapes.”
Unst, the most northerly inhabited island in the UK, is a wonderful place to visit. Kate recommends combining a variety of activities including Hermaness National Nature Reserve, Bobby's Bus Shelter and the Wild Skies Shetland trail.
“There is something about the community in Unst that makes the island a treasure trove of curiosities and wonderful initiatives, and the bus stop and Wild Skies trail absolutely sums it up – things you just wouldn’t find elsewhere.”
Kate lists "anywhere you can find an otter!" among her favourite places in Shetland.
Otters live in Shetland year-round and there's always a chance of seeing them – even if it's not always easy...
“One of the joys, possibly the biggest joy, of coming to a place where there’s wildlife is in the looking for it…”
To see otters, we recommended booking a tour with one of the experienced Shetland tour guides.
Shetland's wild beauty, spectacular landscapes, and deep-rooted identity, are enough to keep drawing Kate Humble back to the islands. As you can see from her 'top 5' list, it's a place to enjoy invigorating walks along beautiful coastlines, witness amazing native wildlife, discover incredible history, and find time to truly unwind.
Whether you want to visit for a short break or make a permanent move, you won't want to miss our 30-minute feature with Kate. Settle down and watch the film now.