Car

The most convenient way of getting around these islands is by car, especially if your time is limited. Roads are well maintained and traffic is nearly nonexistent, although speeding cars can be a problem. Orkney has causeways—the Barricades—connecting some of the islands, but in some cases these roads take fairly roundabout routes.

You can transport your rental car from Aberdeen, but for fewer than five days it's usually cheaper to rent a car from one of Shetland and Orkney's agencies. Most are based in Lerwick, Shetland, and Kirkwall, Orkney, but airport pickups are easily arranged.

Local Car Rental Contacts

Bolts Car and Minibus Hire. 26 North Rd., Lerwick, Shetland Islands, ZE1 OPE. 01595/693636; www.boltscarhire.co.uk.

Orkney Car Hire. Junction Rd., Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, KW15 1JY. 01856/872866; www.orkneycarhire.co.uk.

Star Rent-a-Car. 22 Commercial Rd., Lerwick, Shetland Islands, ZE2 0LX. 01595/692075; 01950/460444; www.starrentacar.co.uk.

W. R. Tullock. Castle Garage, Castle St., Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, KW15 1HD. 01856/875500; www.orkneycarrental.co.uk.