Welcome to the Visit.Shetland.org newsletter for June 2010, which we hope will inspire you to come up and visit us.
If you are considering a visit to Shetland, please do not hesitate to contact us for holiday planning advice using either the contact form or by phoning +44 (0)1595 98 98 98.
Shetland Musem & Archives
The first port of call, for visitors to Shetland, has to be Shetland Museum and Archives -gateway to Shetland's Heritage Hub.
The building is set in a restored 19th century dock, and tells Sheltand's story from geological beginnings to present day. There is a wide range of facilities - a shop, temporary exhibition gallery, state-of the-art archive facility, photo library, and a working boat shed.
Talking of boats - why not take a trip around the harbour in a historic craft? Board the Sixareen at Hay's Dock and learn about Shetland's maritime heritage.
Famished after all this activity?! Hay's Dock Café Restaurant, with stunning panoramic views, is situated on on the first floor. If you're lucky, you may spot seals as you dine out on yummy local produce.
Walk Shetland
After feasting on Shetland fare, you may want to stretch your legs! Shetland is renowned for its fabulous walks. Experience the breathtaking scenery, uninterrupted views, and the freedom to roam. No 'keep out' signs here!
If you prefer to join a group and gain in-depth local knowledge with a highly qualified guide - why not experience a Field Studies group guided tour? Walks for all levels of fitness are organised from April to October. Everything is pre-arranged: notes, maps, guides, minibus collection and drop-off.
Information is available at the Tourist Information Centre, Market Cross, Lerwick – tel: 01595 693434. Booking is necessary.
Summer Events
Walking is beneficial for the health, but what about festival fun? You're in luck! With over 10 festivals a year – Shetlanders know how to enjoy themselves!
June not only showcases crafts, food, drink and music at Flavour of Shetland, but also welcomes home over 500 emigrants and their families, from across the globe, back to Shetland. An exciting programme of events has been planned. It's sure to be a Hamefarin (homecoming) to remember.
If you're a classic car enthusiast we're hosting the Classic Motor Show, or perhaps motorbikes are your passion? Then bring your bike over and take part in the Simmer Dim Rally.
For those who love the salty brine – the Bergen-Shetland Race is a regular highlight on the festival calendar. There's definitely something for everyone!
Shetland Nature Festival
Shetland is one of Britain's leading wildlife watching destinations. To celebrate Shetland's natural heritage, the 3rd annual Nature Festival is being held from 3rd-11th July. This festival is family friendly, with plenty to keep all ages occupied.
Local naturalists will share their experiences and enthusiasm. Guided walks, boat trips, family workshops, seabird spectaculars and open days, held at nature reserves, are just a few of the activities on offer. Not only will nature be a key focus, this year, for the first time, Geopark Shetland has partnered with the Nature Festival to promote geo-conservation and our amazing geological heritage.
An event not to be missed. In the meantime, view our amazing Sumburgh Head puffin cam.
Get Active
It may seem as if all these activities would require more hours in the day than you possibly have. No problem! We experience a phenomena from mid-May to mid-July called 'simmer dim' (summer twilight).
The sun only dips below the northern horizon for a few hours. This virtual twilight marks the ending of one day and the beginning of another. Therefore, in fine weather, the island can have almost 19 hours of daylight!
This means more leisure time to choose from many outdoor pursuits i.e. kayaking, rock climbing, sailing, or a perhaps a game of midnight golf?
No doubt you will take some super photos of your time in Shetland, so why not send your images (wildlife only) to Promote Shetland, and enter the Shetland Photographic Competition? Great prizes to be won!
Shetland Knitwear
You will enjoy the long days that simmer dim affords, however, in the evening, you may need something warm to wear. Shetland is the place to buy quality knitwear, in particular hand knitted Fair Isle garments.
It's therefore wonderful news that Jamieson & Smith Shetland Wool Brokers intend to begin a new collaborative initiative with Edinburgh based, Thistle and Broom. Together they will bring lovers of Fair Isle knitwear, a collection of bespoke and luxurious hand-knitted Fair Isle garments to the lifestyle/luxury goods sector. All garments will be made in Shetland, exclusively from Shetland wool and will feature the Three Sheep Logo - a sign of authenticity and guaranteed quality.
A guarantee that not only applies to Shetland knitwear, but also to the warm welcome you are sure to receive when visiting our shores.