Shetland

Shetland is unlike anywhere else in Scotland. These islands lie 112 miles (180km) beyond the Scottish mainland, stretching north for 70 miles (110km) in moors and wiry pasture gashed by rugged sea inlets. The sight and sound of the sea is almost always present, woven into the islands' maritime heritage. Sea stacks, cliffs and coves, hidden beaches, small crofts and settlements sheltering by the sea-edge are all typical Shetland scenes. There are 100 islands comprising the Shetlands, the area known for its beautiful woolens. They were first settled by the Vikings, and only became Scottish in the 15th century. Today, ferries run to Aberdeen, and to Norway. Lerwick enjoys the tradition of raising sheep and fishing, and the riches of oil in the North Sea.