An isolated island that can be reached by boat or plane from Shetland

Fair Isle, tucked between Shetland and Orkney, is one of Britain’s most isolated inhabited islands and a true paradise for birdwatchers. With rugged cliffs, open moorland, and dramatic sea views, the island is home to an incredible diversity of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and great skuas. Puffins nest along the grassy cliff edges during the summer months, often just metres from the footpaths, making them easy to observe without disturbance.

Reaching Fair Isle is an adventure in itself. You can travel by ferry from Grutness near Sumburgh (a 2.5-hour crossing) or take a short flight from Tingwall Airport near Lerwick. Both options are weather-dependent and book up quickly in summer.

Once on the island, walking is the best way to explore. The cliffs at Sheep Rock and the west coast offer fantastic puffin viewing, and the island’s famous bird observatory welcomes guests and shares sightings of rarer migrants. With its peaceful setting, warm community, and world-class birding, Fair Isle is a truly special place for wildlife lovers.