Hotels

Accommodations in Orkney and Shetland are on par with mainland Scotland, with a growing range of stylish bed-and-breakfasts that might suit some travelers better than the bigger hotels that rely on, and therefore focus on, business customers, which in Shetland—with the oil and the building of a major gas plant—are many. Although standards are improving, the islands still do not offer luxury accommodations. To experience a simpler stay, check out the unique "camping böds" in Shetland—old cottages providing inexpensive, basic lodging (log fires, cold water, and sometimes no electricity). For details, contact the Shetland Tourist Information Centre.