Shetland Isles

Why not travel up to the most northerly part of the British Isles and visit the Shetland Islands?

About The Shetland Islands

The islands are situated 50 miles to the north east of Orkney, and there are 100 islands in total covering an expanse of 567 square miles. There is a coastline of 1,679 miles, with only 16 of the islands which are currently inhabited. The highest point of Shetland is Ronas Hill and there are plenty of inlets, harbours and uninhabited islands to explore on your journey. Why not stock the motorhome up, fill the tank and take a trip to around these very special islands.

Due to the size of the islands, many of the roads are secondary roads which lead to beautifully secluded areas for motorhome owners, but we recommend that you check routes carefully before you commence your journey to ensure the roads are wide enough for your vehicle to pass through and turn at the end.

All inter island ferries transport motorhomes (except Fair Isle), but it’s always advisable to check with the booking office before your departure.

The Isles

Mainland

Mainland is the main island of the Shetlands, and contains the only burgh, Lerwick. Mainland is the centre of Shetland’s ferry and air connections.

Yell

Yell is the second largest island, covering an area of 82 square miles. Have a look at the Burravoe Pier Trust Campsite while you are there where there is availability for an overnight stay on a first come first served basis and payment is made through an honesty system. There are envelopes in the building for making payment and you post them in the letter box in the door. There are 4 fully serviced sites and power points for an extra 4 if needed, plus more room in the car park opposite. Open all year.

Unst

Unst is predominantly grassland and great for coastal cliffs. The main village of Baltasound was once the second largest herring fishing port after Lerwick and is now the location of a brewery, leisure centre and the islands airport. The island also houses a boat museum and heritage centre.

Whalsay

Whalsay, affectionately nicknamed “The Bonnie Isle”, is a fishing island situated to the east of Mainland where you will find Oot Ower Lounge, complete with toilet and shower facilities and open all year

Fetlar

Fetlar, known as “The Garden of the Shetlands” is one of the north isles of Shetland, is the 4th largest island of Shetland and is home to the Fetlar Interpretive Centre.

Wild Camping In The Shetland Islands

Apart from the official sites that are available, the welcoming attitude of the islanders means you can usually find an ideal spot for some “wild camping”, courtesy of the local farmers and crofters.

Contact the nearest house to find out who the landowner is, and just request permission! Don’t be afraid to ask for their advice, they will be more than happy to tell you whether it’s ok to camp there, or if not, recommend a better location for you. Always ask permission from the landowner beforehand, and please be aware of the Outdoor Access Code, and remember to dispose of your waste responsibly.

Campsites & Stopovers On The Shetland Islands

The islands offer a variety of official camp sites located throughout, have a look at some of the places you might like to pitch up:

Levenwick Campsite

A well maintained site, overlooking scenic Levenwick Bay. Situated 16miles south of Lerwick and 7 miles north of Sumburgh, there are four touring pitches and 12 tent pitches available. Open May to Sept.

Westings Campsite

Open all year round, Westings is a smaller campsite equipped with shower, toilets and external power supply

Braewick Cafe and Campsite

Can be visited just for the spectacular view over St. Magnus Bay, the campsite is ideal for fishing, birdwatching and hillwalking. 10 touring pitches available.

Delting Boating Club

Situated alongside the clubhouse and marina with waterbased activities aplenty. There is also spectacular coastal walks around Muckle Roe and Mavis Grind. Supermarket, restaurants and leisure centre nearby. 13 touring pitches available

Skeld Caravan Site

Positioned on the waterfront and is great for bird watching and seal and otter spotting. A spectacular coastline for walking and canoeing, the archaeological sites and lochs for fishing close by are more than an added bonus. 12 touring pitches available

The Garths Campsite, is a well maintained site with basic facilities for motorhomes. It is located within walking distance of the scenic Tresta beach and is ideal for bird watching and pleasant walking. There are six touring pitches (3 electric hood up points). Open Apr to Oct

Gardiesfauld Hostel

Bays with hook-ups can be booked. Open Apr to Sep but bookings out of season can be made by arrangement.

Your Next Destination?

Give us some feedback. We would love to hear where you would like us to visit next, or if there is anything else you would like us to tell you about the counties we visit on our trip around the British Isles. The expert teams at Travelworld Motorhomes would love to hear from you. In addition to hearing where you would like us to go, we can offer advice or support on any aspect of holidaying in your motorhome, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We will be more than happy to assist you.