Go Shetland Tours - operated by Robinson Tranport
Small Group Tours
We have pre-planned mini-bus tours for indivduals and groups of up to 18. They go to the Westside where the scenery is very typical of the islands - the coastline varies from dramatic cliffs to long, narrow Atlantic inlets (called 'voes') reaching deep into the landscape of heathery hills and green crofts. The traditions of crofting and fishing are still very much alive here - in the small, scattered communities you will see crofts (a particular type of small Scottish farm), fish and shellfish farms, and inshore fishing boats. The roads are quiet and the weather is often better than the east side of the islands, but few groups visit this part of Shetland.
Working with local small businesses, we have put together a 3 hour tour starting in Lerwick which includes the following......
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A visit to see Marion at Tresta, with the family’s Shetland Ponies, Shetland Sheepdogs and flock of coloured Shetland sheep. Marion's family have lived here on the croft for several generations and she will be happy to chat to you, while you view the animals. Her daughter Amanda lives next door and now runs the croft and the Breckenlea Shetland pony stud. This stop will ensure you can get up close to Shetland’s native animals in their homeland. This visit is outside, but if the weather is particularly inclement there will be some shelter available.
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A visit to the 'Cake Fridge', where you will have the opportunity to purchase a take-away cake and hot drink for our picnic stop at...........
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Michaelswood - a small woodland planted in memory of a young musician. It has become a favourite with locals and visitors alike, with its Philosopher's Trail and tranquil setting. You will have the opportunity for a short stroll and there is some shelter if the weather is inclement.
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Photostops at scenic viewpoints
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This tour can operate any day and the timing will be arranged to suit each group. Please contact us to check availability for your chosen date.
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This tour can also be extended to suit individual groups - please contact us for prices. For example.....
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We could arrange lunch at one of the many community halls around Shetland - run by volunteers, they are a vital part of our rural communities and you would meet locals who will be delighted to chat. Depending on availability, there may also be an opportunity to view the work of local crafts people, with some items for sale.
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You could visit the workshop at Shetland Jewellery to see the items being made and browse in the shop.
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We could stop at Bonhoga Gallery - a converted grain mill dating from 1855. Now operated by Shetland Arts, it hosts a programme of exhibitions featuring applied arts and craft. There is a small shop with an opportunity to purchase unusual gifts and souvenirs that you will not find elsewhere in Shetland.
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There are many other sites on the Westside that we could include - please ask for ideas if you have a particular interest, eg. archeology, geology, nature, beaches, walks, history, etc.
There are 3 price options for the 3-hour tour, depending on group numbers:
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For up to 7 people (or 8 if the group includes children), using our 8 seater minibus with a driver-guide, qualified and accredited with the Scottish Tourist Guide Association. The total cost for this option is £310 - including the charge for the visit to Marion's.
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For up to 7 people (or 8 if the group includes children), using our 8 seater minibus with a local driver - who is happy to chat to visitors, telling them all about life here. The total cost for this option is £210 - including the charge for the visit to Marion's.
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For up to 18 people using our 19 seater minibus with a driver and qualified guide (accredited with the Scottish Tourist Guide Association). The total cost for this option is £395, plus £2.50 per person (minimum £30 total) for the visit to Marion's. This is charged separately, as group numbers may vary.
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