West Voe of Sumburgh

West Voe of Sumburgh is a fjord located at the southern tip of the Shetland Islands' Mainland, positioned between Sumburgh Head and Scat Ness. Deep waters here are enclosed by steep coastal cliffs and rocky shorelines that extend along both sides.

Human settlements in this area date back to the Late Mesolithic and Early Neolithic periods, revealed through archaeological finds near the fjord. Evidence shows that people continuously inhabited the region for thousands of years.

The fjord remains tied to local fishing traditions that have shaped coastal life for generations. Nearby Jarlshof holds remains of settlements spanning from the Stone Age through the Medieval period, visible to visitors today.

Access to the fjord is available through road networks from Sumburgh Airport, with parking areas providing entry to coastal walking routes. The rocky terrain and clifftop viewpoints require sturdy footwear when exploring on foot.

The Sumburgh Roost is a powerful tidal stream crossing the fjord's entrance that creates distinctive water patterns visible from nearby clifftop lookouts. This natural phenomenon occurs as seawater moves swiftly between the surrounding landforms.

Location: Shetland Islands

GPS coordinates: 59.86670,-1.29583

Latest update: December 14, 2025 15:01