Lerwick, Sheltland Islands, UK

Wild, rugged and undeniably beautiful, the Shetland Islands capital of Lerwick is an unspoiled destination as rewarding as it is remote. More than 5,000 years of island history are on display at the Shetland Museum, and 17th-century Fort Charlotte offers an excellent bird’s-eye view of the town. The Shetlands typically catch more fish than the entirety of England, Wales and Northern Ireland combined, making this industry the heartbeat of Lerwick. Be sure to try some fresh cod, haddock or mackerel at a local eatery, and roasted lamb and mutton soup are popular dishes as well. The best way to enjoy the island is a drive into the countryside, where you’ll find soaring sea cliffs, heather-clad moors, pastoral sheep farms, and the famous Shetland ponies grazing the pastures. Along the way, stop at the impressive ruins of 15th-century Scalloway Castle and the far more ancient remnants of prehistoric settlements at Jarlshof, dating to the Bronze Age.