The best sunrises in Europe

Shetland is once again attracting positive attention from the world of tourism, this time for the quality of its sunrises.

The islands have been named as the only European representative on Lonely Planet’s list of the world’s seven best sunrises. According to the publisher’s website, “The remote beaches make the perfect spot for seeing the sun come up and we promise you’ll be in sweet isolation, untroubled by tourist hordes”.

Sensibly, they also warn that “It’s best to head here in early spring or late autumn for some sunrise action, as Shetland’s northerly location means the sun spends just a few hours below the horizon in the summer months”.

Shetland has been included on the list alongside some seriously spectacular locations, including Uluru (Ayer’s Rock) in Australia, Bryce Canyon in the USA and Mount Fuji in Japan.

VisitScotland’s island manager Steve Mathieson said he was not surprised that the Shetland Islands featured on this “prestigious list”.

“I normally go for an early morning run” he said, “which, accompanied by a spectacular Shetland sunrise and the freshest air you will find anywhere, is an exhilarating experience.

“In the Year of Natural Scotland, a time to celebrate our country’s outstanding natural beauty, this is a wonderful accolade and will hopefully encourage more visitors to come here and enjoy a stunning sunrise and the warmest of welcomes.”

Enjoy some more stunning Shetland sunrises (and sunsets) in our picture gallery.