1. Scenic Northwest & Lunch Tour

Highlights:

Dramatic Scenery, History & Local Food

Overview

Drive northwest through the Shetland mainland to the scenic parish of Northmavine, where we can marvel at the wild rock scenery of the Atlantic coast. Towering sea-stacks and natural arches are to be seen along the way. Huge cliffs and expansive vistas await us at the Eshaness Lighthouse where an optional short coastal stroll ensures you capture the most dramatic shots of your holiday. A trip to the quaint Tangwick Haa museum & gift shop offers the chance to learn some local history. Stop for a wonderful relaxing lunch in Brae at either Busta House Hotel or Frankie’s Fish & Chip Shop. On the way back south Anita will drive you through her home village in the beautiful Weisdale valley, learning about culture, heritage, history and life today for Shetlanders.

More Information

Our drive takes us through wild heathery hillsides passing the picturesque village of Voe, and Brae the largest village in the north of Shetland, enroute to Mavis Grind which is the gateway to Northmavine. Here the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea almost meet as we drive over a narrow neck of land only around 100 metres wide where Vikings and fisherman have portaged their boats over the centuries. Very soon the rocky red granite geology of the area becomes apparent alongside green fields and sheltered voes (inlets of water from the sea). Ever present on the skyline as we head north, is Shetland highest hill Ronas Hill (1486ft, 450m) formed 350 millon years ago. A photo stop for the spectacular sea-stacks ‘The Drongs’ is essential before we reach the clifftops at Eshaness, the flank of an ancient volcano from the Devonian era. You will have time to enjoy the view from the lighthouse and optional 15 minute coastal walk where seabirds can been seen gliding closely past.

A short drive into Tangwick takes us to the quaint and informative museum in a former lairds (landowner) house from the 17th century. Run by local volunteers, this museum gives a fascinating insight into the history of the North mainland of Shetland.

Hopefully you will have worked up an appetite as we return to Brae to have lunch in your chosen venue.

• Busta House Hotel is a beautiful 16th century historic house overlooking the sea. Only the finest locally sourced produce is served to you in this wonderful setting, Perhaps you may be tempted with one of their 270 different whisky’s on offer in the relaxing Long Room.

• Frankies Fish & Chip shop is an award winning venue serving up premium and sustainable seafood fresh from the sea. The most northerly fish & chip shop in the UK serves up everything from crab claws and mussels to wonderful flakey haddock in their indoor or outdoor seated area.

After a relaxing lunch Anita will take you back part-way via a different route so that you can enjoy varied scenery and hear more about Shetland life past and present.