Walking in Shetland - 5 fantastic routes

There are few places where such exhilarating hikes can lead to such peaceful solitude. Many of Shetland's most spectacular landscapes are tucked away but if you like hiking they are within walking distance. While some can be challenging to reach, the effort is worthwhile and the rewards are often yours to enjoy alone.

Beyond its epic coastal trails, Shetland has plenty more to offer its wanderers. There aren’t any Munros, but we do have 19 Marilyns, and with over 5,000 years of human history, the isles are a treasure trove of exceptional archaeological sites. Shetland is also a sanctuary for an array of wildlife you may be lucky enough to spot while out and about. Renowned for its bustling colonies of migrating seabirds, it’s also home to a dense population of otters and seals, and semi-resident pods of orcas.

Walking outdoors is one of the greatest ways to boost your physical and mental health. And all you need is a good pair of boots, sensible clothes and a spirit of adventure. Please be mindful that Scotland’s right to roam carries with it not just the duty for your own safety, but also the responsibility to respect the land, its wildlife, and the people who call it home. For more tips, check out this blog post with guidance for walkers.

Ready to lace up your boots and hit the trails? Here are 5 of our featured routes to try.

Hams of Muckle Roe Circular

If you’re up for one of Shetland's more challenging walks, exploring the Hams of Muckle Roe in the North Mainland is a great adventure.

Start by following the track from the parking area (What3Words ///airtime.trickles.votes) to Muckle Ayre, and then take the signposted path to the lighthouse. Along the way, spot fascinating features like the Hole of Hellier and enjoy views of Vementry and the historic World War One guns at Swarbacks Head. After reaching the lighthouse, continue along less-defined paths northeast to South Ham. Once a 19th-century haven for smuggling, South Ham leads to panoramic views from Strom Ness and North Ham. From North Ham, take a detour to the overlooking headland for spectacular views south before returning through the hills to Little-Ayre.

Hermaness Hike

At the most northerly tip of the UK, Hermaness a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Follow the path north across Winnaswarta Dale on a recycled plastic boardwalk that protects the bog and wildlife. A detour to Saito reveals a large gannet colony on the cliffs of Neap. Continue past Sothers Dale to see puffin burrow, the iconic Muckle Flugga Lighthouse, and the vast ocean beyond. Excitingly, visitors can get incredibly close to the puffins between June and August. The route ends at the headland between Boelie and Wilna Geo, Britain’s most northerly accessible point.

Culswick Circular

Start by taking the right fork on the Culswick road, where you’ll be treated to striking views of a dramatic valley, once a sea loch. Begin your journey to Culswick Broch from a track near the small Methodist Chapel.

The trail offers breathtaking views of high sea cliffs and standing stones on the horizon. As you approach the broch, the ruins of ancient structures rise impressively above the Loch of the Broch.

Lerwick Waterfront

Shetland's capital town, Lerwick is a bustling port town and maritime hub and home to 7,000 residents. Along the shore are winding lanes lined with architecture that beautifully blends old with new.

This waterfront walk will allow you to enjoy the charm of town and its harbour up close, taking you past notable landmarks like the old tollbooth and lodberries along the way.

Jarlshof to Sumburgh Head & Grutness Circular

Begin your walk at the spectacular archaeological site at Jarlshof, following the coastal path eastward. As the cliffs gradually rise, climb towards Sumburgh Lighthouse where, between May and August, you might spot puffins and, with luck, whales.

A detour around the lighthouse reveals stunning cliff scenery and the bedding planes of sandstone, eroded into ledges for seabirds. Continue north along the cliffs to Compass Head for dramatic views and sea stacks, with seals visible below. Enjoy views of Sumburgh and its surroundings before returning to Jarlshof or explore the walled garden at Grutness or the sandy beach nearby.

Check out the full list of great walks in Shetland.