Salta Ness

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Shetland

Scotland

Salta Ness

Trig point Known to the Ordnance Survey as White Ness — Trig point Credit: Iain Macaulay

Salta Ness is a prominent coastal feature located on the island of Shetland, situated in the northernmost part of Scotland. It is a headland that projects out into the North Sea, forming a point that juts into the water. The name "Salta Ness" is derived from the Old Norse word "salt," meaning salt, and "ness," meaning headland, reflecting the historical influence of the Norse settlers in the area.

This coastal feature boasts stunning natural beauty, with its rugged cliffs and breathtaking views of the surrounding seascape. The headland is composed of sedimentary rocks, primarily sandstone and shale, which have been shaped by the relentless forces of erosion over thousands of years. As a result, Salta Ness features distinctive geological formations, including sea caves and stacks, which add to its allure.

The area surrounding Salta Ness is rich in wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts. The cliffs provide nesting sites for seabirds such as puffins, razorbills, and guillemots, while the surrounding waters are home to seals, dolphins, and various species of fish. The headland is also known for its diverse plant life, including heather, grasses, and wildflowers that thrive in the coastal environment.

In addition to its natural wonders, Salta Ness has a significant historical and cultural heritage. The headland is dotted with archaeological sites, including Iron Age settlements and Viking remains, highlighting its importance as a strategic location throughout history. Today, Salta Ness serves as a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the area's rich history and natural beauty.

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Salta Ness Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.195127/-1.2920133 or Grid Reference HU3945. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Trig point

Known to the Ordnance Survey as White Ness

Iain Macaulay

Bod of Nesbister

The camping Bod at Nesbister, formerly a fishing station

Jeremy Duncan

Nesbister

Nesbister looking out on the Bod of Nesbister, with Burra and the Scalloway isles in the distance. There is an ancient tidal Pictish causeway below the sea between the Bod isles and the land.

Jeremy Duncan

Pictish Causeway at Nesbister

This ancient Pictish causeway near the Bod of Nesbister can only be seen at low tide.

Jeremy Duncan

Stromness Voe

Stromness Voe with the Ness on the right. The house in the distance is Jackville, accessible only by foot or boat.

Jeremy Duncan

View over the Loch of Strom, Whiteness, Shetland

Taken from a house (through the window, hence the streak on the left of the image) located at the south end of the Loch of Strom. Hogaland is just off the right-hand side of the photo. There are a few more buildings now on the far side of the loch, but it has changed little other than that.

Ruth Sharville

Strom Ness from Hill of Olligarth

This ness is flanked by Stromness Voe (the water to the left of the picture) and the entrance to Weisdale Voe. In the distance can be seen houses in the village of Hamnavoe. Don't be fooled into thinking you're in Orkney - this Strom Ness is definitely in Shetland!

Ruth Sharville

Making hay while the sun shines, Hogaland

...and never is that expression more apt than in Shetland! The summer days are long, but the season is short, so there's plenty to be done on a bonny day.

Ruth Sharville

Loch of Strom viewed from Strom Bridge

The bridge crosses the narrows connecting the Loch of Strom to Stromness Voe. Visible in the loch are the three islands of the Holms of Hogaland and the ruins of a ruined island castle connected to the mainland by causeway.

Ken Craig