The best walks and hikes around Loch Spiggie
4.2
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406
hikers
13
hikes
Hikes around Loch Spiggie explore the landscape surrounding one of Shetland's largest freshwater lochs. The region is characterized by rolling green farmland, dramatic coastal scenery, and sandy beaches, including the tombolo leading to St Ninian's Isle. As an RSPB nature reserve, the area is a significant site for birdwatching, with trails offering views of the loch and the nearby sea.
Best hiking trails around Loch Spiggie
- The most popular hiking route is St Ninian's Isle circular — Shetland Isles, a 3.7 mile (5.9 km) trail that takes around 1 hour 35 minutes to complete. This route features the unique experience of walking across a sandy tombolo to the island.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Little Voe – Vital Public Hall & Library loop from Dunrossness, a moderate 6.1 mile (9.9 km) path. This longer route requires a good level of fitness and explores the coastal landscape near the loch.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Sumburgh Head circular — Shetland Isles, a 4.3 mile (7.0 km) trail leading through an area known for its seabird colonies, often completed in about 1 hour 55 minutes.
- Hiking around Loch Spiggie is defined by coastal paths, walks across sandy beaches, and routes through rolling farmland. The network of trails provides options for both easy strolls and more moderate hikes.
- The routes in Loch Spiggie are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 40 reviews. More than 350 hikers have used komoot to explore Loch Spiggie's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
3.0
(1)
4
hikers
9.87km
02:39
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
4
hikers
10.2km
02:44
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(22)
162
hikers
5.93km
01:36
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(15)
104
hikers
6.96km
01:55
110m
110m
Hike the easy 4.3-mile Sumburgh Head and Jarlshof Circuit to explore ancient history, an iconic lighthouse, and stunning coastal views in Sh
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Popular around Loch Spiggie
Tips from the Community
Visit the lighthouse museum. Includes an early radar station and explains its pivotal role in WW2.
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Plus a small cafe open some days. Thursday to Monday 10-1700 in 2025. Amazing views and fascinating museum
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Beautiful sandy beach that is sheltered
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This is where you pass when you go around Ninian's Isle
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Nice museum - the Gulf Stream is explained here
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Nice short walk around the island, great beach
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A great spot for watching what's going on in the island. Grutness Voe is to the North and the pier is the terminus for the twice weekly passenger ferry to Fair Isle. Views across to the airport further North to the series of deeply indented bays and cliffs. To the South, the Bight of Laward offers a beach and more fantastic views.
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Why visit Jarlshof? Well it's been described as "one of the most remarkable archaeological sites ever excavated in the British Isles". That's quite a claim that certainly needs investigation! It contains remains dating from 2500 BC up to the 17th century AD and occupies a beautiful site overlooking the sea at the West Voe of Sumburgh.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk directly around Loch Spiggie?
Direct access to the shoreline of Loch Spiggie is restricted because it is an RSPB nature reserve, designed to protect the fragile ecosystem and birdlife. However, you can enjoy excellent views of the loch from the single-track road that encircles it and from various nearby trails that explore the surrounding coastal and farmland scenery.
Are there any circular walks in the area?
Yes, the region offers several excellent circular walks. For a unique coastal experience, the St Ninian's Tombolo Beach – St Ninian's Chapel Ruins loop from Bigton is a fantastic option that takes you across a beautiful sandy tombolo.
What kind of wildlife can I see while hiking?
The Loch Spiggie area is a paradise for birdwatchers. The RSPB reserve is a haven for breeding waders like lapwings and curlews in spring and summer. In autumn and winter, you can see large flocks of whooper swans. For seabirds like puffins and guillemots during the summer, consider the Jarlshof – Puffin Colony at Sumburgh Head loop from Scatness.
Are there family-friendly hikes near Loch Spiggie?
Definitely. The area is well-suited for families, with many easy, low-elevation trails. The walks around St Ninian's Isle and the nearby Spiggie Beach are particularly good for a family day out, offering gentle paths and the excitement of a sandy beach.
What is the landscape like on the trails?
Hiking around Loch Spiggie offers a mix of dramatic coastal cliffs, rolling green farmland, and stunning sandy beaches. Many routes provide expansive views over the freshwater loch on one side and the North Sea on the other, creating a unique and beautiful Shetland landscape.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
Dogs are generally welcome on public paths, but it's crucial to keep them under close control, especially on a lead. This is particularly important due to the presence of livestock in the farmland and sensitive ground-nesting birds within the RSPB reserve area.
Where can I park to start a walk?
There are several small car parks and lay-bys that serve as starting points for hikes. For walks to St Ninian's Isle, there is parking available at Bigton. You can also find parking near Spiggie Beach, though the track may be rough. Always park considerately and do not block access for local residents or farm traffic.
Are there any challenging hikes available?
While most trails are easy, there are options for those seeking more of a challenge. The Little Voe – Vital Public Hall & Library loop from Dunrossness is a moderate hike of about 6.1 miles (9.9 km) that requires a good level of fitness and explores the rugged coastline.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Loch Spiggie?
The routes around Loch Spiggie are well-regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the stunning coastal views, the unique experience of walking the St Ninian's tombolo, and the abundant opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Are there any historical sites to see on the walks?
Yes, the area is rich in history. The walk to St Ninian's Isle leads to the ruins of a 12th-century chapel. A short drive away, you can also explore the world-renowned Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement, which showcases thousands of years of human history.
Can I walk on the beach?
Yes, the area has some beautiful sandy beaches perfect for walking. Spiggie Beach and Scousburgh Sands are both highly-regarded local spots. They offer lovely, quiet stretches of sand ideal for a gentle stroll and spotting wildlife.
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