Choose Date
Explore Lerwick’s West Side on a Private Tour from Lerwick - Book Your Lerwick Sightseeing Experience
Discover the often-overlooked beauty of the west side of the Shetland Mainland, locally known as the Wastside, on a private guided tour that skips large tour groups and shore excursions so you can experience unspoilt Shetland scenery at your own pace; you'll pass through spectacular landscapes, visit the important Neolithic site Stanydale Temple, and pause at an authentic Cake Fridge for a genuine local stop that makes this Shetland outing memorable.
About this activity in Lerwick
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Highlights
- Explore the unspoilt west side of the Shetland Mainland (the Wastside), a quieter stretch of coastline rarely visited by large tour groups
- Take a private guided drive through dramatic coastal and moorland scenery aboard an air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable sightseeing
- Visit the important Neolithic monument Stanydale Temple to connect with ancient Shetland history away from the crowds
- Enjoy an authentic local stop at a traditional Cake Fridge for a genuine taste of island hospitality
Important Information
- This private guided tour includes transportation and the Services of a qualified guide in an air-conditioned vehicle; food, drink and gratuities are not included
- Service animals are welcome and public transport links are available nearby, but some walking is required to fully experience the sites
- The tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or significant mobility problems; participants should have at least a moderate level of fitness
- Small group sizes mean a more personal experience of the Wastside’s landscapes and heritage sites-bring suitable footwear and weatherproof clothing
Meeting Point
Pick-up and drop-off are provided in Lerwick; the exact meeting point (harbour, your accommodation, or an agreed central location) will be confirmed after booking.
Includes
- Private transportation is included for your comfort when exploring Lerwick and the surrounding area.
- A qualified tour guide accompanies you throughout the experience, offering local insights and commentary.
- Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle to stay comfortable during transfers and on-route sightseeing.
Excludes
- No food or drink is included, so plan ahead if you have specific dining needs during your time here.
- Gratuities are not included; you can tip your guide or driver at your discretion.
Other
- Service animals are allowed, ensuring accessibility for guests who travel with assistance animals.
- Public transportation options are available nearby if you prefer to combine the tour with local transit.
- This activity is not recommended for travellers with spinal injuries; consider your health before booking in this destination.
- This experience is not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health due to activity demands in the area.
- You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the itinerary offered here.
- Not recommended for travellers with mobility problems - some walking is required to fully enjoy this tour in the region.
Customer Reviews
10/10
Based on 2 Reviews
Summary:
I really enjoyed my tour and my guide Beth was extremely knowledgable. James was a skilled driver who knew all the routes. He showed me his amazing regalia for (sorry for the misspelling) the Ap Helly Aa fire festival. The ax and shield must’ve taken weeks (months?) the make. I learned so much and can highly recommend!
Read More
Summary:
We booked this tour for a stop on our cruise. The operator worked with me as we ran into bad weather and let me know how the pick up would go depending on how we docked/
anchored. Unfortunately, bad weather prevented the ship from reaching the port at all. The tour fee was refunded to me immediately. I am sure the actual tour would have been awesome, and hope we can do it in the future. I am completely sold on this company. They are honorable and caring and I will book with them without hesitation.
Read More
Other Popular Activities in Lerwick
Explore top attractions and memorable experiences, including iconic observation decks and family-friendly activities.
20 activities found
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $127Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $1,125Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $33Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $989Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $817Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $1,021Per Person
Explore Lerwick: Book Your Tours, Wildlife, Food, Adventure
Explore Lerwick, Scotland for a compact collection of top activities-tours and sightseeing, outdoor nature and Water-Based adventures, and cultural shows that put the area’s character front and center. You can easily book wildlife-watching excursions, family-friendly Events, and Workshops & Learning through Varoom, pairing accommodations with curated experiences in the region. Whether you seek Adventure & Thrill boat trips, relaxed Food & Drink or wellness options, or Group-Friendly multi-day outings, this destination makes it simple to find and reserve the activities that match your plans.
Apartment
10.0(3 Reviews)
1 Bedroom
1 Bath
2 Guests
Fireplace/Heating
Internet
Child Friendly
Laundry
US $215/Night
7 Nights - US $1,502
Apartment
10.0(2 Reviews)
2 Bedrooms
1 Bath
4 Guests
645.83 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
Parking- Internet
- Child Friendly
US $167/Night
7 Nights - US $1,166
House
9.4(55 Reviews)
1 Bedroom
1 Bath
- Fireplace/Heating
Breakfast
Kitchen- Internet
US $152/Night
7 Nights - US $1,067
House
10.0(1 Review)
4 Bedrooms
2 Baths
8 Guests
- Fireplace/Heating
Balcony/Terrace- Kitchen
- Parking
US $763/Night
7 Nights - US $5,344
Know more about Lerwick
The Wastside offers unspoilt beauty and dramatic coastal scenery rarely visited by large tour groups. On a private guided tour you'll pass through some of Shetland Mainland's most scenic spots, giving you a quieter, more authentic sightseeing experience away from crowds.
Expect coastal walks, scenic drives through rugged landscapes, and short on-foot exploration of viewpoints and heritage sites. The route highlights the natural, unspoilt environment of the west side and is ideal for Outdoor & Nature and Adventure & Thrill seekers who enjoy walking and discovery.
The itinerary includes a stop at an authentic Cake Fridge, giving you a taste of local charm during your exploration. Note that food and drink are not included in the tour price, so you can choose purchases on-site.
Yes - the tour includes a visit to Stanydale Temple, Shetland Mainland's most important Neolithic site, so you can explore ancient archaeology with expert commentary from your guide.
Yes - the private guided format and stops at cultural highlights like Stanydale Temple make the tour well suited to Family & Kids and Workshops & Learning experiences. The relaxed pace and authentic stops help children engage with Shetland Mainland's history and nature.
The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness and some walking to fully enjoy the scenery and heritage stops. It is not recommended for travellers with mobility problems or certain health limitations, but the private transport and guided format make it accessible for many who can manage short walks.
