Fetlar | Yolanda Bruce

Ask an Islander

We headed to the North Isles where we are heard all about Fetlar from islander Mykala who loves winter on the island.

“The thing about winter on Fetlar that I like the most has to be the weather. Although it’s not the best generally, it creates some spectacular views and waves along the coasts of the island.”

What about rainy days? We asked islander Mykala what she would recommend for visitors on a rainy day in Fetlar and she point us in the direction of Fetlar Interpretive Centre.

The museum includes a range of exhibits – from knitting and maritime heritage, to film from the island in the 1930s and an award-winning section on Sir William Watson Cheyne and his contribution to antiseptic surgery.

But for Mykala, the outdoors provides the best enjoyment, as she tells us. “My favourite parts of island life would probably be the island community and the beaches. An activity I would recommend for a sunny day would be coasteering – but there are plenty of beaches too. Visitors often miss the hidden beaches along the island, so it’s worth exploring.”

Fetlar sounds incredible, but what’s the best thing about island life for Mykala? And she simply tells us that “My favourite part about island life has to be the freedom and variety it offers.”

Collect your travelogue stamp!

If you have one of our paper travelogues you can collect your stamp using the brass rubbing plate located at Fetlar Interpretive Centre, Houbie

Why not download the Scottish Islands Passport app to collect digital stamps!

Getting Here

You will need to travel via Mainland Shetland and Yell to reach Fetlar. 

Once you are on Mainland Shetland, take the ferry operated by Shetland Ferries from Toft to Ulsta on Yell. Bus connections (Service 24Y) are available from here to Gutcher where Shetland Ferries operates a service to Fetlar.

Explore More

Want to find out more about Fetlar and explore more of our amazing islands?

Download the free Scottish Islands Passport app to:

  • discover your perfect island match,
  • find out about the experiences each island has to offer,
  • collect passport stamps for the islands you visit,
  • find information on accommodation, travel and island amenities.

Get Your Passport

You can find lots more information about things to see and do on the island, see some amazing island photography and collect your island stamp by downloading our app.

Download the app

App in phone

Download the Scottish Island Passport app to collect your island stamps! The app also provides lots more information on each island including recommendations from locals about things to see and do, info on how to get around, more stunning photos and useful offline maps.

  • Unlock Stamps - Collect them all! Stamp your passport when you visit each island - with an individual stamp designed to represent a unique aspect of island heritage.
  • Experiences - Discover the best experiences each island has to offer – from local boat trips to exciting traditional festivals, there is something for everyone.
  • Maps - Navigate the islands with useful offline maps, handy for areas where internet connectivity is weak.
  • Travel Jounals - Create an in-location travel journal with pictures from your island adventures, to look back on your trip.
  • Favourites - keep track of your most loved islands with the favourites feature. Available to access from your account on both the app and web.