Loch of Cliff

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Shetland

Scotland

Loch of Cliff

Loch of Cliff, located in the Shetland Islands of Scotland, is a serene and picturesque freshwater loch encompassing an area of approximately 48 hectares. Nestled amidst rolling hills and heather-covered moorlands, the loch is a captivating natural feature that attracts both locals and tourists alike.

Surrounded by a diverse array of flora and fauna, Loch of Cliff serves as a vital habitat for numerous species. The loch's brackish waters are home to a variety of freshwater fish, including brown trout, which make it an appealing destination for anglers. Additionally, the loch provides an important breeding ground for waterfowl such as mallards, tufted ducks, and greylag geese, offering ample opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts.

The landscape surrounding Loch of Cliff is characterized by its rugged beauty, with rocky outcrops jutting out of the water and lush vegetation lining the shoreline. The loch is further adorned by the presence of water lilies and reeds, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting.

Access to Loch of Cliff is facilitated by a network of paths and tracks that traverse the surrounding countryside, allowing visitors to explore the area on foot or by bike. The tranquil ambiance of the loch makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers seeking solace and relaxation amidst Scotland's breathtaking scenery.

Overall, Loch of Cliff in Shetland offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and tranquility, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the enchanting Shetland Islands.

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Loch of Cliff Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.800776/-0.88577794 or Grid Reference HP6013. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Petester from Cliff, beside Loch of Cliff

Mike Pennington

Greylag Geese (Anser anser), Hermaness

Flushed while surveying areas for dead Great Skuas under contract to assess HPAI.

Mike Pennington

Petester

Looking across Stivla Mires towards the abandoned village of Petester, with Crussa Field and the Heogs in the distance.

Mike Pennington

The abandoned village of Petester

From Crussa Field.

Mike Pennington

Abandoned peat-workings at the south end of Hermaness NNR

Peats have not been cut here since the 1980s.

Mike Pennington

Peat track at the south end of Hermaness NNR

The peat here is only about a metre thick, and the track has been cut down to the bedrock.

Mike Pennington

Milldale Burn

Milldale on the map, but known as Tonga Daal locally.

Mike Pennington

Petester

One of the ruined houses at Petester, a small village which was inhabited until the 1970s.

Mike Pennington

Blanket bog at the south end of Hermaness NNR

With the slopes of Saxa Vord in the distance.

Mike Pennington

Haila Leog

A small pool which drains to the Ayre of Tonga, with the hills of the Heogs in the distance.

Mike Pennington

Erosion along the Milldale Burn

The burn has cut away at the soil to reveal a relatively thin layer of peat overlying a grey, stone-filled soil (glacial till?) and a sandy subsoil at the bottom.

Mike Pennington

Looking down Milldale

Some of the houses at Burrafirth can be seen in the distance and the Hill of Clibberswick is in the far distance on the left. Although named Milldale on the maps, it is known as Tonga Daal locally ('daal' is Shetlandic for dale or valley).

Mike Pennington

View east from Mill Field, Hermaness

Looking across the moorland on the ridge between Hoveburn and Milldale. The white house in the centre is Lower Sotland at Burrafirth with a view right across to Harold's Wick.

Mike Pennington