Loch Funzie, Da Snap and Aith Trail

The Loch Funzie, Da Snap and Aith Trail is generally considered moderate in difficulty. Be prepared for varied terrain, including uneven and grassy paths, some minor road sections, and coastal walking. You'll encounter pathless and boggy areas, stiles over fences, and steep climbs along clifftops. Approximately 6.33 km of the route is unpaved.

This trail offers diverse scenery and notable features. You'll pass the Loch of Funzie, an RSPB reserve, and follow clifftops around Funzie Ness. Highlights include the spectacular The Snap Sea Arch, jagged cliffs, sea stacks, and views of Funzie Beach. Keep an eye out for unique geological formations, ancient planticrubs, and prehistoric house sites.

Fetlar is known as 'the garden of Shetland' due to its rich flora and fauna. The Loch of Funzie RSPB reserve is particularly famous for rare red-necked phalaropes, especially from late May to late July. You might also spot red-throated divers, whimbrels, otters, eider ducks, arctic terns, and seals.

While dogs are generally welcome on public paths, this trail passes through sensitive wildlife areas, including the Loch of Funzie RSPB reserve. To protect ground-nesting birds and other wildlife, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead at all times, especially during nesting seasons (typically April to July). Please also ensure you clean up after your dog.

The best time to hike this trail is generally from late spring to late summer (May to August). This period offers the best chance for milder weather and longer daylight hours. If you're hoping to see the rare red-necked phalaropes, plan your visit between late May and late July. Be prepared for changeable weather conditions typical of the Shetland Islands at any time of year.

No, there are no specific permits required or entrance fees to access the RSPB Mires of Funzie Reserve or the trail itself. However, as it's a protected area (SSSI, SPA, SAC), please adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, stay on marked paths where possible, and respect the wildlife and natural environment.

Specific parking details for this exact trailhead are not provided, but generally, for trails on Fetlar, you would look for designated parking areas near the start of the route, often close to settlements like Funzie. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival or consult local Fetlar visitor information for the most precise parking locations.

Reaching Fetlar typically involves a ferry journey from the Shetland mainland. Once on Fetlar, public transport options are very limited. It's highly recommended to have your own vehicle or arrange local transport if you plan to hike this trail. For ferry schedules and more information, you can check the Shetland Islands Council website.

Yes, the Loch Funzie, Da Snap and Aith Trail is designed as a circular route, often referred to as 'The Snap & Loch of Funzie circuit' or the 'Funzie Ness' walk. This allows you to experience the diverse scenery without retracing your steps.

Yes, while the Loch Funzie, Da Snap and Aith Trail covers 100% of its own designated route, it also briefly intersects with sections of the Strandbrough trail for about 9% of its length. This means you might see markers or paths that are part of the Strandbrough route during your hike.

Given its 'moderate' difficulty, varied terrain including boggy sections, steep clifftop climbs, and pathless areas, this trail might be challenging for very young children or those unaccustomed to hiking. It's best suited for families with older children who are experienced hikers and have good fitness levels. Always supervise children closely, especially near clifftops.