November 7th 2024.
Have you ever dreamed of escaping the chaos and calamity of the world and finding solace on a peaceful, idyllic island? Well, look no further than Unst, a beautiful island located on the north coast of Scotland. With its stunning landscapes, minimal population, and distance from big cities, Unst has been dubbed the "real-life" Treasure Island, as it heavily inspired the famous novel written by Robert Louis Stevenson.
Unst is the third largest island in the Shetland Islands, after Mainland and Yell, and spans just 46 square miles. To put that into perspective, it could easily fit into London 13 times! The nearest city, Lerwick, is over two hours away by car, making Unst a true getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
As the most northerly inhabited place in the UK, Unst holds a special place in Stevenson's heart, who visited the island in 1869 and even signed the visitors' book at the Muckle Flugga Lighthouse. This lighthouse, designed and constructed by Stevenson's father and uncle, bears a striking resemblance to the one described in Treasure Island. The island's rugged landscape and unique shape also mirror the appearance of the fictional Treasure Island.
Stevenson was determined to protect the island's sanctity and did not want to disclose its location, as he feared an "undue rush" of tourists. He even directed readers towards the West Indies instead. Today, Unst remains a hidden gem, known not only for its connection to Treasure Island but also for its abundance of puffins that frequent the area.
But Unst is not just a place of inspiration; it also holds a unique distinction as the first place in the UK to introduce a spaceport for vertical rockets. Located on a former Royal Air Force military station, the spaceport was built by Frank Strang for a whopping $61 million. This former radar station, SaxaVord, was used to warn the mainland of incoming aircraft.
If you're looking to visit Unst, there are a few options for accommodation. One of the most notable is Belmont House, the UK's most northerly stately home, built in 1775 and now a listed building. For £180 per night, guests can immerse themselves in the island's history with a two-night minimum stay policy. The Baltasound Hotel, popular with birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, offers stunning views of Balta Island and has 24 bedrooms available for £85 per night for a single room or £130 for a standard double.
Unst's population is just 632, compared to the 293,907 sheep that roam the entire Shetland Islands. And the good news for those looking to relocate to this peaceful haven is that house prices are relatively affordable. According to Gov UK, the average house price in the UK is £282,000, while properties on Unst have an average sale price of £169,500, making it a more affordable option.
To reach the most northerly inhabited island in the British Isles, you can take a ferry from the Shetland Mainland or neighboring Yell. For only £2.80, you can travel on foot, but if you're bringing a car, a return ticket will cost around £16.50. Alternatively, you can take the bus from Lerwick or fly to Sumburgh Airport from various cities in Scotland.
Unst offers plenty to do, from exploring the stunning scenery and outdoor walks to learning about its rich history. The Hermaness National Nature Reserve offers breathtaking views of Da Waithing Skerries, where you can spot the Muckle Flugga lighthouse that inspired Treasure Island. Unst is also home to the UK's most northerly sandy beach, Skaw Beach, surrounded by wildflowers and another beach, Inner Skaw.
For those interested in Viking history, Unst is a must-visit destination. Over 60 longhouses were discovered at Underhoull, Belmont, and Hamar, as Unst was a popular stop for Vikings traveling between Scandinavia, Greenland, and Newfoundland. You can also explore the remnants of a radar station and the Ministry of Defence's radar base from WWII. And don't miss the 16th-century Muness Castle, Britain's most northerly castle.
If simply visiting the island isn't enough, why not take it a step further and buy your own island? Eilean Loch Oscair, a 10-acre uninhabited island off the coast of Scotland, is currently for sale for £125,000. For £2.5 million, you can also purchase Sanda Island, which comes with a farmhouse, two lighthouses, and two smaller islands.
Unst truly offers a unique and tranquil escape from the chaos and calamity of the world. Whether you're looking for a peaceful vacation or a permanent change of scenery, Unst has something for everyone, from its stunning landscapes to its rich history and unique wildlife. So why not pack your bags and head to Unst? You won't regret it.
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