VisitShetland

Cycling

Cycling around Shetland

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.

For more information on cycling in Shetland see Cycling in Shetland (1Mb PDF) leaflet.

Low Cost Accommodation

There are plenty of guest houses and B&Bs and several good hotels outside the main town of Lerwick. The Shetland Tourism Information Centre in Lerwick has full details and offers a book-a-bed-ahead service.

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 Visit Shetland in Lerwick.

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2009 Photo Competition

VisitShetland is pleased to announce the launch of their 5th annual photocompetition.  This year's theme is 'Shetland's Wild Side'.

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Visit our extensive website www.shetlandwildlife.co.uk or call Shetland Wildlife on 01950 422483 for a choice of over 30 holidays!

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