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United Kingdom
Scotland
Shetland Islands

Aithsting And Sandsting

Easy hikes and walks around Aithsting And Sandsting

4.9

(39)

220

hikers

8

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Aithsting And Sandsting traverse a landscape characterized by expansive heather moorland and numerous freshwater lochs. The region features a hillocky terrain, with elevations reaching up to 457 feet (139 meters), providing varied walking experiences. Coastlines are often bold and rocky, deeply indented by several voes, offering scenic coastal paths.

Best easy hiking trails around Aithsting And Sandsting

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Meal Beach and Hamnavoe Circular, a 2.8 miles (4.5 km) trail…

Last updated: May 19, 2026

4.9

(8)

40

hikers

#1.

Meal Beach and Hamnavoe Circular

4.48km

01:11

40m

30m

Explore the easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) Meal Beach and Hamnavoe Circular hike, featuring stunning coastal views and the charming village of Hamna

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

5.0

(1)

19

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Ed Russell-Smith
October 26, 2025, Stanydale Temple

Staneydale “Temple,” dating back 2,000–3,000 years, lies in one of the few parts of Shetland where the sea is out of sight. Its purpose remains uncertain—it may have been a ritual site, a chieftain’s house, or a kind of communal hall—but its construction was an impressive feat. Massive stones, some weighing up to 300 kg, were likely transported from afar. Inside, two large postholes contained charred spruce timbers—trees neither native to Shetland nor even Scotland—suggesting the wood was imported from Scandinavia or gathered as driftwood. Archaeologists estimate the vast roof would have needed about 700 metres of timber, remarkable for a treeless landscape even 4,000 years ago. Maintained by Historic Scotland, but free to enter, it’s about 1/2 mile walk from the road.

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Heik
September 11, 2024, Meal Beach

Great sandy beach that invites you to take a cool swim

Translated by Google

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Heik
September 11, 2024, Hamnavoe Harbour

Nice place with great shop and beautiful houses

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Neat little gardens can be found along the road.

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Fugla Ness lighthouse is on the finger of land forming the western side of Burra Voe, so it's an out and back moment on your run, but a landmark that's worth it. The original light was rebuilt with the current tower in 1936 and it continues to guide boats into the harbour past the rocks and reefs found among the Scalloway Islands.

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Adie
June 21, 2023, Meal Beach

Meal beach offers beautiful white sand that gently slopes into the clear turquoise water (when the weather is favourable). The beach is somewhat sheltered, making it a great place to stop off on your route.

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The valley floor was once a sea loch, but is now blocked by a shingle bar, creating a fresh-water loch. Lovely views across the loch to the Broch and the ruins of a croft-house beneath.

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A very remote chapel indeed! Stone exterior and a wood-panelled interior with a very ornate looking harmonium.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available in Aithsting And Sandsting?

Aithsting And Sandsting offers a good selection of easy hiking trails. You'll find at least 6 routes specifically graded as easy, making it accessible for a wide range of hikers. In total, the region features 9 hiking routes for various abilities.

What kind of landscapes will I encounter on easy hikes in Aithsting And Sandsting?

Easy hikes in Aithsting And Sandsting will lead you through diverse and picturesque landscapes. Expect expansive heather moorland dotted with numerous freshwater lochs, and dramatic, often rocky coastlines deeply indented by 'voes' (sea inlets). The terrain is generally hillocky, offering gentle ascents and descents.

Are there any family-friendly easy walks in Aithsting And Sandsting?

Yes, Aithsting And Sandsting has family-friendly options. The gentle nature of many of the easy trails, particularly those around lochs or within plantations like Michaelswood, make them suitable for families. Look for routes with minimal elevation gain and shorter distances for younger children.

Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Aithsting And Sandsting?

Many of the easy hiking trails in Aithsting And Sandsting are suitable for dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially around livestock or wildlife. Always ensure your dog is on a lead where required and that you clean up after them. The varied landscapes, from coastal paths to moorland, offer great experiences for you and your canine companion.

Are there any circular easy walks in the area?

Yes, there are several circular easy walks available. For example, the Meal Beach and Hamnavoe Circular is a popular 2.8-mile route offering coastal views. Another option is the Stone Wall and Coastal View – Lerwick Community Gardens loop from Scalloway, which provides scenic coastal scenery.

What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the easy hiking trails?

Aithsting And Sandsting's easy trails often pass by fascinating natural and historical sites. You might encounter ancient archaeological antiquities like standing stones or brochs, such as on the Culswick Broch and Loch Sotersta trail. Other notable attractions in the wider area include the Loch of Tingwall and Law Ting Holm, the unique Mavis Grind Isthmus, and scenic viewpoints like the View of Scalloway.

Where can I find parking for easy hikes in Aithsting And Sandsting?

Parking availability varies by trailhead. For popular routes like the Culswick Broch and Loch Sotersta walk, there are often small parking areas nearby. For walks around attractions like Michaelswood or Da Gairdins o' Sand, dedicated parking facilities are usually provided. It's always advisable to check specific route details for precise parking information.

Is public transport an option for reaching trailheads in Aithsting And Sandsting?

While some areas of Aithsting And Sandsting are served by local bus routes, public transport options for reaching specific trailheads can be limited. It's recommended to check the current bus schedules for the Shetland Islands to see if they align with your chosen easy hike. Many visitors find a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the region's trails.

What is the best time of year for easy hiking in Aithsting And Sandsting?

The best time for easy hiking in Aithsting And Sandsting is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, you'll experience milder weather, longer daylight hours, and the moorlands are often vibrant with wildflowers. While winter walks are possible, be prepared for shorter days, colder temperatures, and potentially challenging weather conditions.

Are there any easy hikes that offer coastal views?

Absolutely. The coastlines of Aithsting And Sandsting are a highlight, and several easy hikes offer rewarding sea views. The Meal Beach and Hamnavoe Circular is an excellent example, providing beautiful coastal vistas. The region's deeply indented 'voes' also create numerous opportunities for scenic coastal paths.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Aithsting And Sandsting?

The easy trails in Aithsting And Sandsting are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Hikers often praise the serene and wild beauty of the landscape, the tranquility of the lochs, and the dramatic coastal scenery. The opportunity to explore ancient sites and enjoy the unique Shetland environment is frequently highlighted.

Are there any easy walks near cultivated gardens or plantations?

Yes, for a different kind of easy walk, you can explore areas with cultivated natural experiences. Attractive plantations with public access exist at Michaelswood in Aith and Da Gairdins o' Sand. Additionally, Lea Gardens at Tresta offers a veritable botanic garden experience, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

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