Lying northeast of Britain 168 kilometres from the Scottish mainland, the subarctic archipelago of Shetland is made up of 100 islands, 15 of which are inhabited.

Also known as the Shetland Isles, these rugged and secluded islands boast phenomenal natural scenery, captivating history and exhilarating activities.

Pristine beaches fringed by bright blue waters adorn an enthralling coastline of imposing rock formations.

Astoundingly well-preserved archaeological sites illustrate the area’s thousands of years of heritage, including Iron Age brochs, standing stones, traditional croft houses and Pictish wheelhouses.

The Viking and Norse heritage is still alive here in the sounds of the local dialect and the many place names.

Visitors can hike through beautiful nature reserves, explore museums, or pop into one of the famously quirky decorated bus stops.