Then it was back along the road towards Sumburgh, but we would not be going that far.
Our place to visit today was the little island of Mousa, because on this island there stands the almost complete Mousa Broch, built over 2000 years ago.
The ferry leaves from the little harbour at Sandsayre. While you are waiting there is a small museum telling the history of the area.
Mousa is uninhabited. Its name means Mossy Island. It is old Norse. Today it is an RSPB site, but visitors are welcome as long as you keep to the signposted path, and follow the rules.
There are no facilities on the island. The ferry will leave you there for about 4 hours. So use the toilet at the pier before leaving. No shops, so bring food and suitable clothing.
I was not sure how we could spend 4 hours there, but in face we had a fascinating time, and at no point were we wishing for the ferry to return.
The sheep on the island were all assembled near the little jetty for shearing. You can imagine the noise.
We set off round the island admiring the views and the birds. There were seals to be seen and heard. I imagined what those cries would sound like in the middle of a dark night. Unnerving for sure.
Eventually we reached the broch. It can be seen from the mainland, but as you approach from the rear of the island you begin to appreciate the size. And as you get closer still, and then when you are actually inside it, you begin to appreciate the building skills of those men 2000 years ago.
It is the best preserved Iron Age roundhouse in existence and is mentioned in the Norse Sagas.
You can still climb up inside the circular walls to the top where you have a birds eye view all around you and over to the mainland.
So for animal loves and history lovers, Mousa is a must. Only open in the summer season, April to mid September.
http://www.mousa.co.uk/mousa-island-trip
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mousa
http://www.shetland-heritage.co.uk/mousa
http://www.rspb.org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/seenature/reserves/guide/m/mousa/
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