The best walks and hikes around Delting

Yes, the area offers some great options for families or those looking for a less strenuous walk. A good choice is the Ling Ness circular, a pleasant coastal walk of about 3.8 km that can be completed in around an hour.

Dogs are generally welcome on trails, but it's crucial to keep them under control, especially near livestock and during bird nesting season (spring and early summer). The open moorland and coastal paths mean you'll likely encounter sheep and ground-nesting birds, so a lead is essential.

Muckle Roe is known for its spectacular scenery and rewarding walks. The terrain is primarily coastal, featuring dramatic red granite cliffs and hidden coves, known locally as 'hams'. Expect uneven paths and some boggy sections, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is highly recommended. The Muckle Ayre Beach – Muckle Roe Island loop is a great example of the island's rugged beauty.

While many routes are moderate, the combination of Shetland's unpredictable weather, remote terrain, and potential for boggy ground can make any hike challenging. For a longer day out, consider the Burravoe, Ladies Hol and Heoganess loop. Its nearly 9 km length combined with coastal exposure provides a good test for seasoned hikers.

Shetland's weather is famously changeable, so layered clothing is key. Always pack waterproof and windproof outerwear, even on a sunny day. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential due to the often boggy and uneven terrain. It's also wise to carry a map, compass or GPS device, as phone signal can be unreliable in more remote areas.

The Steens of Stofast loop is unique because its main feature is geological rather than coastal. The hike takes you across open moorland to a pair of enormous boulders, known as glacial erratics, which were deposited and split by ice age frost action. It offers a different perspective on the Shetland landscape away from the immediate coastline.

The best time for hiking is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the days are long and the weather is generally milder. This period also allows you to see Shetland's famous seabird colonies. However, be prepared for wind and rain at any time of year.

Most trailheads in and around Delting are best accessed by car. There is usually informal parking available near the start of popular routes, such as at the Muckle Roe bridge. Public transport options are limited in these rural areas, so driving provides the most flexibility for exploring different walks.

Yes, the history of the area is woven into the landscape. The walk on Muckle Roe, for example, takes you past coastal 'hams' or havens that were once used by smugglers. Many routes pass by crofting ruins and ancient sites, reflecting Shetland's long history of human settlement.

The walking routes around Delting are very highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning and dramatic coastal scenery, the sense of wild, open space, and the opportunities for wildlife spotting along the unspoiled coastline.

Shetland is a fantastic place for wildlife watching. Along the coast, you can often spot seals, and if you're very lucky, orcas or dolphins. The area is also rich in birdlife, including puffins (in season), fulmars, and ravens. Keep an eye out on the moorlands for various moorland birds.