Scenic Shetland And Jarlshof Settlement

Enjoy a short tour of Lerwick Town, capital of the Shetland Islands, and the most northerly town in the British Isles.  The compact town is built of stone, with narrow paved streets to give the residents some protection from the fierce winter gales.  It has a very unique character not found elsewhere in the world; founded on the fishing industry and with strong Viking connections, little now remains of the old village of Lerwick. 

Travelling south along the coastal road with the sea on one side and the hills of the South Mainland on the other, you’ll pass through several small settlements. A stop will be made to see the Island of Mousa, home of the best preserved Broch (Iron Age drystone hollow-walled structure) in existence. Drive on a short way to Hoswick and make a stop at the Hoswick Visitor Centre, a small souvenir shop and local museum about Shetland life, including information about the world renowned Shetland weaving.

From Hoswick, there is a short drive to the remarkable archaeological site of the Jarlshof settlement at Sumburgh, on the southern tip of the mainland.  Jarlshof presents one of the most interesting remains of early human habitation and displays, through its monuments and ancient dwellings, a view of many different peoples and periods.