Enjoy a glimpse of two of Shetland's most renowned attractions on this tour, starting with a brief panoramic orientation drive through Lerwick, the only town in Shetland, dating from the 1600s.
Leaving Lerwick, your coach heads toward the Central and West Mainland and the town of Scalloway. The former Shetland capital is where you will find famous Scalloway Castle, a forbidding ruin dominating the town that was built by Earl Patrick Stewart in 1600 using forced local labor. Stewart was the notorious despot who tyrannized Orkney and Shetland. It was from here that he extorted crushing taxes and fines from the people of Shetland. His cruelty eventually led to his downfall, and in 1615 he and his son were executed in Edinburgh. Built in medieval style, the roofless shell, with corner turrets and gables, stands on a narrow promontory by the water. The Earl is said to have hung his victims from an iron ring in one of the chimneys. The castle was, not surprisingly, left to rot after the Earl's death. Today, it stands side by side with the commerce of a busy fishing port, a silent sentinel to the past.
From Scalloway, your tour continues through the Tingwall Valley with its Norse heritage to the Gott Ponies that are owned and bred by David Roberson. David is a Shetland pony enthusiast, breeding very good quality ponies and he or a member of his staff will be delighted to share their knowledge of these delightful and inquisitive ponies with you.
After a fun visit with the ponies, you'll re-board your coach and head northwards through peat and heather covered landscapes. On the return journey to Lerwick, make sure to have your camera ready as you won't want to miss the opportunity to photograph the spectacular vistas of the islands that make up the Shetland Archipelago as your local guide shares with you Shetland's culture and heritage.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 1 1/4 hours of walking. The tour is considered suitable for wheelchair guests who can make their way on and off the coach. Guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Weather appropriate clothing and flat, comfortable walking shoes are suggested. Guests should be prepared for the possibility of rain. The order of sites visited may vary.