Fair Isle, a tiny jewel of an island, is known worldwide for the warmth of its welcome to visitors. Lying halfway between Orkney and Shetland, it is one of Britain's most successful remote communities, pioneering projects in wildlife tourism, sustainable management of the environment and use of wind power.

The 70 or so islanders live in traditional crofts on the more fertile southern third of the island, the remaining land being rough grazing and rocky moorland, rising to Ward Hill. Most of Fair Isle's coastline boasts impressive cliffs including the spectacular Sheep Rock.

While the island's oceanic climate brings stormy but fairly mild winters, summer visitors may encounter rapid changes in the weather - a day of sparkling sunshine and incredible visibility followed by one of mist-enshrouded cliffs. Several of the crofters welcome paying guests into their homes. Self catering accommodation is also available.

Please follow the Countryside Code

Though you're free to walk almost anywhere on the island, some crofters prefer you not to cross their land at lambing time (April May). Please follow the Countryside Code. Close gates, use the stiles and walk round crops including the hay and silage fields. Fair Isle's cliffs offer dramatic scenery and seabird watching but they can be very dangerous. Please take care and tell someone where you're going, and when you plan to be back.