Southmost Shetland-Sumburgh Head

OVERVIEW

Settle in for an extraordinarily scenic drive to the southernmost point on mainland Shetland with stops along the way for a closer look at the wildlife and natural wonders. You will pass through a landscape that glaciers, rivers and the relentless pounding of the sea have shaped over millennia. It will be stunningly beautiful in every direction, but especially at places such as the waterfront Mousa Broch tower. You may spot Shetland ponies grazing in the grasslands, seals resting along the rocky coast and countless seabirds nesting in the safety of the precipitous cliffs. Birds are especially prevalent at Sumburgh Head at the very tip of Shetland. Between watching the antics of the puffins, guillemots, razorbills and other avian species, be sure to notice the flowering plant life at your feet such as spring squills and sea pinks. The visitor center in the 19th-century lighthouse is included in your tour and well worth a look, exhibits around island life, the lighthouse keepers and the radar hut that detected the first German attacks are just some of the exhibits on offer.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy an incredibly scenic drive to the southernmost point of mainland Shetland.
• See the world’s largest stone tower broch along the way.
• Observe puffins and countless other seabirds in the cliffs below Sumburgh Head Lighthouse.
• Browse the exhibits in the lighthouse, which has been continuously used since 1821.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate layered clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.