Shetland’s wild winter appeal

Some of Shetland's most memorable moments happen when you simply stop and look around.

Winter brings long twilights, vivid skies and ever-changing weather. It’s when the islands’ landscapes look at their most dramatic and rugged. And it’s a time to wrap up whatever the weather and experience the moment.

On clear evenings, away from city lights, it’s easy to be mesmerised by sparkling starry skies, and you might be lucky enough to witness the mirrie dancers shimmering across the heavens. That’s what we call the northern lights here in Shetland, and if they’re dancing, you won’t want to miss them.

Daylight hours can be equally memorable. A winter sunrise over the sea or an afternoon sunset washing the horizon in colour can feel every bit as spectacular as the aurora.

On stormier days, there's something equally captivating about standing safely on a clifftop, watching powerful Atlantic waves crash against the coastline or seeing a squall sweep across the sea before sunlight breaks through once more.

These are the moments that remind us to slow down and notice the world, and they’re all part of Shetland 100, our ultimate islands’ bucket list.

When the weather turns cooler, Shetland's cultural life comes into its own. That means plenty of opportunities to get out of the cold and to warm up in good company.

You can choose to spend an evening listening to traditional Shetland music or keep an eye on what’s on listings for all variety of concerts. Take in a film or live performance at Mareel. Browse the shelves at the library or settle into a cosy café with a good book and a great coffee.

If you're feeling adventurous, why not learn a few steps of the Shetland reel at a traditional dancing class? Each of these experiences features within the Shetland 100 and offers visitors a chance to engage with the islands' culture.

These simple experiences are as much about connection as they are about entertainment. Genuine moments that welcome you into real Shetland life.

Whether you’re visiting Shetland for a few days or settling into island life after moving here, discovering the place is about more than what you see. It's also about what you taste.

Winter is the perfect time to discover some of Shetland's traditional flavours. Enjoy a warming bowl of tattie soup with reestit mutton after a coastal walk, tuck into a Shetland sassermaet roll, or pick up a freshly made bannock slathered in Shetland butter.

Naturally, seafood is a year-round staple, and whether you prefer fried locally landed fish, seared scallops, or Shetland mussels, you can expect some of the freshest, best seafood anywhere, straight from the seas that have shaped the islands.

These food experiences are all celebrated within the Shetland 100, and as many local favourites are hearty, warming dishes, winter is the perfect time to enjoy them. Many dishes reflect local traditions with recipes perfected over generations. There’s no tastier way of discovering the true character of Shetland.

One of the great pleasures of visiting Shetland in winter is the sense of space. There’s no need to hurry, and the rugged openness offers a chance to slow down and experience landscapes.

A walk at Eshaness is always invigorating, but after a wild winter storm it can go to another level. As huge Atlantic waves crash against the ancient volcanic cliffs, you can truly feel the power of the ocean.

In Unst, the boardwalk route at Hermaness gives access to the UK’s most northerly National Nature Reserve, and showcases stunning coastal views and vast skies that can feel extra dramatic in winter light. Remember that the weather can change quickly and you’ll need suitable clothing to stay dry and warm.

For something less strenuous, try a circuit of Clickimin Loch, stopping to explore Clickimin Broch. Further south, the coastal route to the Ness of Burgi combines history, scenery and fresh sea air.

There are dozens of winter walks to choose from, each offering a different experience of Shetland, especially if you have the time to stop, look, and listen along the way.

The beauty of the Shetland 100 is that it's not really a checklist. There’s no rigid itinerary to follow and you can create your own bucket list and discover the moments that matter to you.

Maybe you’ll spend a morning beachcombing and discovering objects washed ashore after a storm. Or maybe you’d prefer walking along the shoreline in the hope of spotting otters feeding or seals hauled out on sheltered beaches.

Perhaps you’d prefer to be indoors on a rainy day, diving into the past at Shetland Museum and Archives or simply relaxing in a warm spot watching the world go by.

Take your choice; that’s exactly the point of Shetland 100.