Shetland is one of these places that is a must to visit , at least once in your life. To the mainland UK visitor or European traveller, the Shetland way of life is a completely different and enjoyable experience and can only be appreciated by coming here , no number of books or brochures can possibly act as a substitute. The similarity between Lerwick and Bergen in Norway is not coincidental. Bergen is as close to Lerwick as any Scottish Mainland city so it is hardly surprising that some Shetlanders see themselves as Norse rather than British or even Scottish! Historically, Shetland was ruled by Viking Denmark for 600 years before being gifted to Scotland as part of a dowry in the late 15th century. But this archipelago of over 100 islands, lying 222 miles west of Bergen and nearly 400 miles north of Scotland's capital, Edinburgh, is still Norse in character and very independent. Although renowned as awesome warriors, the Vikings from Shetland were, at home, law abidi ... < more >