Cycling
Shetland has over a thousand miles of smooth roads, with endlessly varied scenery and astounding views just waiting to be explored by the cyclist. Head winds can be a problem but traffic is light, making cycling mostly a pleasure, particularly in those long 19 hours of midsummer daylight. Tracks and off-road terrain offer challenging mountain biking alternatives.
Safe and Friendly
Though the islands are far from flat, most gradients are gentle. Main roads are wide and many sections also have a hard shoulder as a refuge. In most places you can see and be seen a long way ahead. Surfaces are well-maintained and, for most of the day, there is little traffic. The hundreds of miles of minor roads are narrower, with passing places, but on most of them visibility is excellent and there are even fewer cars, buses and trucks.
Off-Road Cycling
Shetland's size makes a cycle touring holiday with 30 - 50km daily legs a realistic option, although down the side roads you're likely to be delayed by conversations with friendly country folk going about their daily tasks on crofts and fish farms - as well as by unexpected encounters with birds and seals.
Low Cost Accommodation
Most places have camp sites where you can pitch your tent. Low cost options in many rural areas are Shetland Amenity Trust's camping barns or bods - converted buildings of historical interest. Almost every village has a shop, so you can buy supplies en route without carrying a load of heavy stores.
On-Road Cycling
At this northerly latitude, sensible all-weather equipment is essential and, when the sun does shine, don't underestimate its strength. When the weather's just too bad, there are local leisure centres, museums and pubs to entertain you while the rain blows over, as it will.
You can meet local cycling enthusiasts during your stay. The Shetland Wheelers hold road events and time trials.
In Lerwick there are good bike shops offering cycles for hire and the usual spares and repairs.
The North Sea Cycle Route, a developing network of international links encircling the North Sea, passes through Shetland, with its ferry connections to Scotland and Scandinavia. Routes are being signposted and a map is available from the Visitor Information Centre in Lerwick.
Taking Bikes to Shetland
It is possible to take your own bike to Shetland also. Northlink Ferries are able to take bikes from Aberdeen to Shetland, on their daily route, free of charge. It is also possible to transport bikes on Loganair flights from all major Scottish airports. To find out more please contact Loganair direct on 0871 700 2000.
On This Site
- Find out about bike hire in Shetland
- Keep an eye going for Shetland's flourishing flora when you're out and about
From Other Sites
- Routes2Ride has a detailed route guide for a cycle from Sumburgh to Unst
