Escape to the Shetland Isles for a true get-away-from-it-all, where you'll find wildlife that's truly wild and a history that dates back over 6,000 years. This is an elemental landscape, sitting proudly in the North Sea between the Scottish mainland and Norway and a visit here will provide fond memories for many years to come.
Walking is one of the best ways to explore Shetland and there are lots of opportunities for getting into the great outdoors to appreciate the islands fully. Some of the many walks are featured in the island's own Walk Shetland website which is well worth a visit.
This particular walk is to Fitful Head, one of Shetland's highest headlands. With its summit reaching 283 metres, it has breathtaking views over the Quendale Valley below.
To reach the starting point of this walk, leave the south branch of the A970 at the sign for Ringasta and Quendale. Cross the cattle grid at Hillwell and park on the verge or in a large lay-by further on.
From the car park, start by walking back to the farm before joining a track which ascends to your left. The track has a steady incline before opening up into a large grassy hollow. From here you will see the Burn of Hillwell on your left and may by lucky enough to spot skylark from here.
The track now starts to head uphill again, through cotton grass and heather. Keep climbing and take advantage of the stunning views over Loch Spiggie and the beautiful Shetland coastline.
At the end of the track cross a fence to the left of the gate and walk round the enclosure on the side of the continuing fence. Continue over moorland with the fence on your right before walking along the fenced cliffs. Keep following the fence with the track now starting to descend. The fence now ventures away from the coast and meets a crossing. You should cross over and keep descending keeping the fence on your right. After a short walk you will find yourself on flatter ground.
By walking straight ahead you will find yourself crossing a small burn before meeting a track. After a short walk along the track it will take you onto a small road which will then lead you back to the starting point of the walk.
After returning from the walk it's worth calling into Quendale Mill where you'll find exhibitions, light refreshments, a craft shop and genealogical information for avid researchers. Further east in the pretty and Scandinavian-looking hamlet of Voe, the Boddam Croft House Museum is also worth a visit. This was built in 1870 and consists of a thatched crofthouse, barn, watermill and is packed with authentic furniture and items from the age.
More information can be found on this route by purchasing Walks on Shetland by Mary Welsh.
