The final day of our Ultimate Shetland tour dawned and we jumped in the minibuses to head up to the dramatic cliffs of Eshaness. This part of Shetland boasts one of the highest energy coastlines in the world. Blasted by the full force of the North Atlantic it displays a stunning array of stacks, blowholes and geos; the narrow inlets that frequent this coastline.
We stopped on the way up north to visit a special site where the rare Oysterplant flowers (Mertensia marítima). This fleshy-leaved perennial gets its name from its smooth grey, fleshy leaves which when eaten taste strongly of oysters. It grows in just a few sites in Shetland and we were all delighted to see it looking so healthy along this shingle coastline…
Not only was the oysterplant doing well, this whole stretch of coastline looked gorgeous, with its medley of species; beautiful combinations of sea campion, thrift, ragged robin, orchids and buttercups..
Reaching Eshaness, we took a bracing walk along this dramatic coastline. Plenty of opportunities for panoramic photographs as we clambered along some of the rocky outlets to get superb views along the coast. Fulmars soared along the cliff edges and balanced precariously of campion-clad ledges.
Red-throated divers were seen on the nearby lochs, as we made our way along the paths that gave superb views….
As we headed back to the minibus, we couldn’t believe that our week was all but finished… Huw and I have thoroughly enjoyed guiding this trip for such a wonderful group of people, who all feel like friends now. It has been a week I won’t forget! Shetland and its wildlife never fails to thrill and excite. If you haven’t been to Shetland before, I hope my accounts of our travels have inspired you to visit these very special islands… you won’t be disappointed!
