Shetland through the lens: Locals share their 5 favourite spots

1. Noss (South End)

Steve Birrell said:

Living in the south end of Shetland offers a variety of picturesque spots, but one that never fails to blow me away is Noss. As you walk up the field towards the sea near the cliff edge, it becomes strikingly apparent how high up you are. Looking to the left, you're greeted by the towering 900ft cliffs of Fitful Head. If you have the time, taking the walk from Noss to Fitful Head is a must—the scenery is spectacular.

I usually visit Noss around sunset. The setting sun creates a cracking display as it dips below the horizon, and the light reflecting off the cliffs reveals details that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Note: Parking can be a bit tricky, as there aren't many places to leave your car without blocking someone in, so you might have to park a bit down the road

2. Da Lang Ayre

Sophie Whitehead said:

Da Lang Ayre is translated as "the long beach." This is probably what I’d consider the most rewarding walk in Shetland, or at least the most rewarding I’ve done myself.

Found at the back of Rona's Hill, after a climb to the top, you descend to the stunning expanse of sand. As you approach the beach the noise of the water on the stones is one of my favourite sounds. But most of all, it's the feeling of having it all to yourself.

One of the unique aspects of Da Lang Ayre is the knowledge of the effort required to reach it. The walk is long and demanding, but this only adds to the sense of accomplishment and the reward of the empty, unspoiled beach at the end. It's a reminder that often, the most beautiful places are the ones we have to work a little harder to reach. 

3. Quarff

Neil Henderson said:

Quarff can appear fairly unassuming on the face of it when traveling through, but it provides a great opportunity for coastal scenery photography. An advantage I have is staying in Quarff, which allows the opportunity to experience it in all weathers! This shot features Quarff Lodge (in the foreground). The lodge has family history as, through a quirk of fate, my wife’s great grandparents stayed there. This scene always provides a great vista, whatever the weather, with the dramatic cliffs of Da Ord and Da Bard over on Bressay providing a spectacular backdrop – a shot I have taken on many occasions from the front doorstep!

4. Gletness

Niamh Wylie said:

My favourite place to take photos in Shetland is Gletness, located at the end of the road in South Nesting. For me, it’s not just a pretty place. It’s where my granny grew up and where generations before her lived.

However, I’m sure I’m not just biased about its loveliness, as there is a famous Shetland tune called ‘The Isles of Gletness’ written about the beauty of the outlying isles which are visible from the shore. Gletness is a true hidden gem, with beautiful beaches and ayres which only reveal themselves when exploring the coastline.

The best time to take pictures in Gletness is at dusk when all is calm except from the birdsong, and it feels like you’re the only person in the world.

Note: To reach Gletness you have to take the South Nesting junction and keep driving right to the end of the road. The coastline is accessible by foot, but to really appreciate the beauty of Gletness you should take a boat to the South Isle. There you will find a slice of heaven.

5. Minn Beach, Burra

Melissa Mayo said:

This is my favourite location for photos. I love the mixture of clear blue waters and white sands, which mixed with some well-timed ‘golden hour’ lighting in the summer, makes for some incredible sunset shots (when the weather allows).

It’s a relatively easy location to access, and you’re always only a short walk away from either a beach shoot, or if you’re at the top of a hillside, fa dramatic coastline shot. The views also change so drastically no matter which way you point your lens, and I absolutely love that.

The people and animals I take photographs of have always seemed to love a bit of time at the beach to run around and unwind, which is when I get my best uninhibited and free candid shots.

These five spots are just the beginning. Shetland boasts countless stunning locations, often yours to enjoy in solitude. Grab your camera – where will you find your favourite view?

If you're out and about taking photos of Shetland this summer, don't forget to enter our summer photography competition, ending in August 2024!