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Activity Lerwick, Scotland

Shetland South Mainland Scenic & Historical Private Shore Tour

5.0 (one review) 5 h 30 min Private tour
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Shetland South Mainland Scenic & Historical Private Shore Tour

About this activity

This comprehensive private shore tour is perfect for those with one day in Shetland, offering a mix of stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and wildlife. Explore St. Ninian’s Isle, see seal colonies at Rerwick Beach, and visit the restored Shetland Crofthouse for a glimpse into past life. Discover the archaeological site of Jarlshof and enjoy the seabird cliffs at Sumburgh Head. Finish with a visit to the charming village of Hoswick for local knitwear and refreshments. A perfect blend of Shetland’s natural beauty, culture, and history.

Half-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Ports of Call Tours City Tours Car Tours Shore Excursions

At a glance

Duration
5 h 30 min
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Your group only
People per booking
1–4
Guide
English
Operated by
taxiGo DMC

Ages: Adults (0–100 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Private transportation
  • Included: Private transportation up to 4 persons
  • Included: Port pick-up and drop-off
  • Included: English-speaking guide

Not included

  • Not included: Personal expenses
  • Not included: Lunch
  • Not included: Entry fees (£10 per person)

Itinerary

  1. Stop 1

    15 min

    Meet your guide and start the tour with a scenic drive through Shetland’s south mainland.

  2. Mousa

    20 min

    Stop at the Mousa viewpoint to see the world’s best-preserved Iron Age broch. This towering structure has a fascinating history, including mention in Viking sagas, and offers great photo opportunities.

  3. St Ninian's Isle

    one hour

    Travel to St. Ninian’s Isle, famous for its shell sand tombolo, the best example of its kind in the British Isles. Learn about the Pictish treasure hoard discovered here and enjoy a short walk on the beach.

  4. Stop 4

    30 min

    Enjoy a photo stop at Rerwick Beach, where you can often spot seals sunbathing on the shore. This peaceful spot offers stunning coastal views.

  5. Stop 5

    45 min

    Visit a beautifully restored Shetland crofthouse from the 1850s. Step back in time to see how families lived in Shetland’s past, with artifacts and stunning sea views from the house.

  6. Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement

    one hour

    Explore the fascinating Jarlshof site, showcasing human settlement from the Neolithic to the 16th century. Your guide will take you on a walk through history, finishing with a visit to the on-site visitor centre and gift shop.

  7. Sumburgh Head Lighthouse

    20 min

    Visit the Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, built in 1929, and take in the breathtaking views of the seabird colonies on the cliffs, a great spot for more photos.

  8. Hoswick

    30 min

    Stop in the picturesque village of Hoswick for refreshments at the visitor centre, with interesting historical displays and a gift shop. Explore the village’s two high-quality knitwear shops and a local jewellery workshop.

  9. Stop 9

    30 min

    Relax on the drive back, reflecting on your day of discovery, before returning to the port.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

  • Grand Hotel Lerwick
  • The Shetland Hotel
  • Herrislea House Hotel
  • Glen Orchy Guest House
  • The Lerwick Hotel
  • Scalloway Hotel
  • The Queens Hotel

The driver will meet you in the Lerwick Port with the sign with your name. Please inform about your pick up details in advance.

Cancellation

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Good to know

  • Specialized infant seats are available

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Options

  • Private Tour for 4 passengers

    Private transportation: Includes private transportation to and from the Lerwick Port

    Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide

    Pickup included

  • Private Tour for 3 passengers

    Private transportation: Includes private transportation to and from the Lerwick Port

    Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide

    Pickup included

  • Private Tour for 2 passengers

    Private transportation: Includes private transportation to and from the Lerwick Port

    Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide

    Pickup included

  • Driver-Only Tour

    No guide, fixed 7:30 AM pickup: Private transportation only. No guide, no entry tickets. Available on Tuesdays with a fixed 7:30 AM pick-up.

    Pickup included

  • Private Tour for 1 passenger

    Private transportation: Includes private transportation to and from the Lerwick Port

    Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide

    Pickup included

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · one review
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Shetland South Mainland Scenic & Historical Private Shore Tour

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