Shetland’s as far north as you can go in Scotland – but definitely worth the trip. Its 100 or so islands are a gloriously remote setting for wildlife enthusiasts, those looking for artistic or spiritual inspiration, and anyone seeking the ultimate, get-away-from-it-all destination. Shetland’s famous for its sturdy little ponies, hand-knitted woollen sweaters, colonies of seabirds and seals, and amazing sea fishing. It hosts one of the largest bird colonies in the North Atlantic (more than a million birds), has three National Nature Reserves, four RSPB reserves and 78 Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, Shetland’s climate is surprisingly mild for somewhere that is closer to Norway than to mainland Scotland. Expect great days out and a warm, friendly welcome.