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Puffin

© Paula Moss

Shetland

South Mainland Tour with Island Vista

Shetland’s South Mainland is full of fascinating history and beautiful vistas. From the ancient settlement of Jarlshof to the wonderful wildlife at Sumburgh Head to the spectacular tombolo of St Ninian’s Isle, this is one of our most popular tours.

South Mainland TourView the world’s best preserved Iron Age Broch

Our tour starts in Lerwick, the capital of Shetland. Heading south, we pass several smaller communities including Gulberwick, the fertile limestone community of Fladdabister and the growing district of Sandwick. We will stop to view and take photos of the world’s best preserved 2,000-year-old Iron Age Broch, on the island of Mousa.  

See the spectacular tombolo at St Ninian’s

Crossing over the 60˚ North line of latitude, we head to the Atlantic coast. Here we find the spectacular tombolo beach that takes you to St Ninian’s Isle. As well as plenty of photo opportunities, we’ll tell you about the buried Pictish treasure discovered by a local schoolboy in the 1950s. You’ll also have a photo opportunity from the cliffs above Rerwick beach, a popular bathing spot for seals.

Delve into 5,000 years of history

​We then head further south to Jarlshof, one of Europe’s biggest and most complex archaeological sites. You will be transported through 5,000 years of history, ranging from Neolithic times up to the 1600s. There is also a visitor centre and gift shop on site.

Witness the wildlife at Sumburgh Head

Sumburgh Head is the southernmost tip of the Shetland Mainland. Visit Sumburgh Head Lighthouse and see the various seabirds that reside on the cliffs. The birds come ashore to breed during the summer months (April to August), including the famous Puffins (or Tammie Norie as they’re known locally), as well as Guillemots, Fulmars and Kittiwakes.

As there is a lot to see in the South Mainland of Shetland, we would be happy to turn your half day experience into a full day adventure and see some of the other sites. If you wish to do this, please get in touch.

COVID-19 information

Safe Travels

This business has confirmed that they have implemented, and will ensure ongoing compliance with, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels protocols. The Safe Travels stamp is based on self-assessment and it is not a certification.

From £90 per adult


Departure days

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday
  • Saturday
  • Sunday

January — December

Contact details

Island Vista

Gutters' Hut
7 North Ness Business Park
Lerwick
Shetland
Scotland
ZE1 0LZ

Tour information

Starting

  • Lerwick

Length

½ Day

Transport

  • Driver guide
  • Minibus
  • Small coach

Type

  • Small Group (1-16)

Languages

  • English

Themes

  • Archaeology
  • Landscapes
  • Wildlife

Tour prices


From £90 Per Adult £75 Per Child

Book now

Prices are subject to change depending on season

Tour Stops

Island Vista

Tour company information

Island Vista

We are a tour operator based in the stunning Shetland Islands. We have over 13 years experience in creating high quality tours using fully accredited tourist guides. We can create tours for 1 person to 1,900 people.

Opening times

All year round

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