Hotels in Unst

Unst: Where Nature Meets Legend on Scotland's Northern Edge

Unst, the northernmost isle of Shetland, is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurers. With rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, and dramatic cliffs, it offers breathtaking landscapes ripe for exploration. Visit the historic Muness Castle for a glimpse into the past, or immerse yourself in the rich local culture and warm hospitality of the residents. Birdwatchers flock to the island's unspoiled habitats, while hiking trails lead you through stunning natural beauty. Whether you're seeking tranquility or adventure, Unst promises an unforgettable off-the-beaten-path experience that captures the spirit of Scotland's wild charm. For our best hotel rates in Unst and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Unst

Fetlar and Yell are fantastic areas to stay when visiting Unst, Scotland. Fetlar offers stunning landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude. Yell, with its beautiful beaches, monuments, and museums, provides a rich cultural experience along with adventure opportunities like scenic walks. For first-time visitors, Yell is best suited due to its diverse attractions.

1. YellOpens in a new window: Yell is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a mix of beautiful beaches and rich cultural history. The stunning Breckon Sands and West Beach offer serene spots for relaxation or picnics by the sea. For those who appreciate history, The Old Haa provides insights into traditional Shetland life through its fascinating exhibits. You can also enjoy a variety of scenic walks like the Sandvoe to Uyea Circular Walk, which showcases the island's breathtaking landscapes. Yell’s friendly atmosphere and beautiful coastal views make it a delightful place to stay, perfect for connecting with nature while soaking up local culture.
2. FetlarOpens in a new window: Fetlar, known as the Garden of Shetland, is ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. This serene island boasts stunning landscapes and is famous for its wildlife, including seabirds and rare plants. You can explore local attractions like the Fetlar Interpretive Centre, which highlights the island's unique history and environment. The peaceful beaches provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway. Fetlar’s charm lies in its untouched beauty and welcoming community, making it a lovely spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Things to do in Unst

Unst beckons travelers with its stunning natural landscapes, featuring rugged coastlines, serene beaches, and rolling hills. Explore the vibrant wildlife through birdwatching or embark on exhilarating boat trips and ferry rides. Hike through lush parks and enjoy unforgettable whalewatching experiences in this picturesque island paradise.

• Skaw BeachOpens in a new window – Relax on the stunning Skaw Beach, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters. This picturesque spot is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with friends and family. As you walk along the shoreline, take in the breathtaking views of nearby islands and the rugged Scottish coastline. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the serene atmosphere that makes this beach a hidden gem in Unst.
• Hermaness CliffsOpens in a new window – Venture to the dramatic Hermaness Cliffs, where towering rock formations meet the roaring sea. This natural wonder offers exhilarating hiking opportunities with paths that lead you to spectacular viewpoints. As you make your way along the cliffs, relish the sight of seabirds nesting in the rocky outcrops and listen to the waves crashing below. The vistas from the top are nothing short of awe-inspiring, providing a perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos.
• Skidbladner LongshipOpens in a new window – Visit the fascinating Skidbladner Longship at the maritime museum, where history comes alive. Here, you can explore the intricate details of this impressive vessel, which represents the rich maritime heritage of the region. Engage with informative exhibits that showcase the craftsmanship and significance of longships in Viking culture. This museum is an excellent spot to learn about Unst's seafaring past while appreciating the stunning coastal views surrounding the area.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Unst

1. Book for the cheapest times: When planning a visit to Unst, you’ll find that it offers a variety of key landmarks and cultural attractions, including stunning islands, beautiful natural landscapes, and historic castles. To fully enjoy these budget-friendly sites, it's recommended to stay for at least three days. This way, you'll have ample time to explore the rich history and culture of the area without breaking the bank. Plus, with some accommodations and activities, prices may drop during your visit, making it a great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Unst, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications can help you stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, increasing your chances of finding the best prices. Additionally, Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window is a handy comparison tool available in the app that allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you can make informed booking decisions. With these features, you could be among the first to know about room availability or price drops for your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay at an Unst hotel. If you're interested in unique accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and may offer better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates that could help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, you might want to look for hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit farther away, as they usually tend to be cheaper while still providing reasonable access to the sites you plan to explore. Additionally, consider independent hotels located further out, which can offer a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Unst. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to Unst

Unst experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 42.4°F (5.8°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 55.4°F (13.0°C). December is usually the wettest month. April, June, and July are the peak travel months in Unst, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, with no to light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.