Unst - Hermaness

Visiting Yell, Unst, and Fetlar is like having a holiday within a holiday. Ferry crossings from the mainland take you to these northern islands that offer something special and unique.

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From the mainland ferry terminal at Toft, you cross to the Island of Yell. Once you get to Yell, travel across the island to the north and catch your next ferry at the Gutcher terminal, which can take you to Unst or Fetlar. I have been spending quite a lot of time in Unst visiting Hermaness. I usually get on the 9.30 ferry across to Unst; this lets you make the most of the day and not miss anything essential.

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I am usually very naughty, and the first place I head to in Unst is the Final Checkout, a local shop. You can stock up on any supplies you need for the day, and by doing so, you also support local shops. When heading to Hermaness Nature Reserve, you must have enough to eat and drink, as walking to the cliffs is quite strenuous. So at the Final Checkout, you can grab a lovely cup of tea, stock up on goodies, and make your essential comfort stop.

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When you arrive at Hermaness car park, allow yourself time to pack your bag for your outing. Correct clothing and footwear are essential. Even if it seems sunny and unnecessary, the weather can change quickly.

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It is recommended that you have a fully charged mobile phone; for extra peace of mind, download the Three Words app, which will be handy if you need to call emergency services.  I always travel with a first aid kit and enough food supplies and water.

 

​The first part of the walk is quite steep, and it's usually best not to speak until you reach the top, where it's flat, and you can stop and catch your breath. After that, it's a gentler gradient, walking along a boardwalk until you reach the cliffs. The landscape is peat and heather, and the area will usually have a good display of bog cotton and ferns in the summer.

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Before you reach the end of the boardwalk, you will pass through a breeding site of Great Skuas, or Bonxies as they are known in Shetland. During the walk, you stay on the boardwalk to protect the landscape and show the necessary respect to the Bonxies. They are known to dive-bomb people who stray in order to defend their nests or any young that may be around.

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At the boardwalk’s end, you can turn left or right. We usually turn left and head to the gannetry. Always approach the cliffs slowly when you reach the end of the boardwalk; they are 600 ft high and can be overwhelming at first. Get comfortable, then approach to a distance where you feel comfortable. Everyone is different.

 

Turn left and head up the hill; look for puffins that land and pop in and out of their burrows. Always respect their space. You will smell the gannets before you see them as you approach the gannetry. It is an incredible spectacle. There are 25 000 pairs of gannets. They glide alongside and around the cliffs, chatter amongst each other and head off to find food for the young.

 

It is usually an excellent time to find a spot, take in the view, have a nice picnic, and take photos. Other birds you will see are Fulmars, Puffins, and Black-Backed Gulls and Skuas.

 

Always remember to be aware of the weather. It can change fast. Stay dry, and if you feel chilly in the wind, wear the correct clothing and stay warm. Always watch your footing when walking around, as the ground can be slippery and uneven.

 

Walking back down to the car park is much easier than going up, so you'll be back at the car soon, feeling invigorated and proud of yourself for making the trip.

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