Horse Helliacks

Cliff, Slope in Shetland

Scotland

Horse Helliacks

Papa Stour and Foula Taken on the B9078 between Burnside and Eshaness, Shetland, I am looking out towards the islands of Papa Stour (left of shot) and Foula beyond. — Papa Stour and Foula Credit: Carroll Pierce

Horse Helliacks, also known as Shetland Cliff or Slope, is a unique geographic feature located in the Shetland Islands. It is a striking natural formation that showcases the rugged and dramatic landscape of the region.

Horse Helliacks is a series of impressive cliffs or slopes that stretch along the coastline of Shetland. These cliffs are characterized by their steepness and their towering height, which can reach up to 100 meters (328 feet) in some areas. The name "Horse Helliacks" is derived from the Old Norse term "hella," meaning a flat rock or ledge, and "ack," meaning a height.

The cliffs of Horse Helliacks are composed of layers of sedimentary rock, primarily sandstone and shale, which have been shaped and carved by the relentless forces of wind and water over millions of years. The result is a visually stunning display of natural beauty, with the layers of rock creating intricate patterns and textures.

The cliffs are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including various seabird species such as puffins, fulmars, and guillemots. The surrounding waters are also rich in marine life, attracting seals, dolphins, and even whales.

Horse Helliacks is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers who are captivated by its breathtaking scenery. Visitors can explore the cliffs by following designated walking trails and enjoy panoramic views of the North Sea and the surrounding coastal landscape.

Overall, Horse Helliacks, Shetland Cliff or Slope is a remarkable natural wonder that showcases the raw and untamed beauty of the Shetland Islands.

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Horse Helliacks Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.484791/-1.5017982 or Grid Reference HU2778. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Papa Stour and Foula

Taken on the B9078 between Burnside and Eshaness, Shetland, I am looking out towards the islands of Papa Stour (left of shot) and Foula beyond.

Carroll Pierce

The Drongs

Taken from the B9078 between Burnside and Eshaness, Shetland, I am looking across Sand Wick to the sea stacks known at The Drongs. Papa Stour can be seen in the distance.

Carroll Pierce

St Magnus Bay Hotel, Hillswick, Shetland

Built in 1900 by the North of Scotland Ferry company. Still functioning, just [in 2004], but the absentee landlord is clearly not interested in maintaining it as a hotel, which is sad.

David Medcalf

Urafirth Primary School, Shetland

Built around ten years ago Urafirth Primary School lies between Urafirth and Hillswick and pupils who live in the north west mainland of Shetland attend. Its nursery is also attended by pupils from as far away as Ollaberry.

John Dally

Hillswick Fire Station, Shetland

With local retained firefighters the Hillswick Fire Station is little more than a large garage, just big enough to house the small appliance based on a large van.

John Dally

Hillswick, Shetland

Large traditionally built houses at Hillswick. In the background is Findlins House and Findlins Farm.

John Dally

Hillswick, Shetland

Houses at Hillswick, the large two storey house with mansard roof is called Laarsund.

John Dally

St Magnus Bay Hotel, Hillswick, Shetland

This hotel was built as a kit in Norway, dis-assembled and transported to Hillswick where it was constructed on its present site in 1900 by the North of Scotland, Orkney & Shetland Steam Navigation Co.. Sadly it is currently closed (April 2006) although the local community wish to see it opened again. For more information on Hillswick and surrounding area visit Link

UPDATE Oct 07: this hotel is now owned by a local couple and open every day - More information can be found at the official website Link

John Dally

View over Heads of Grocken, Eshaness, Shetland

Looking out over the Heads of Grocken with 'The Drongs' the sea stacks in the distance.

John Dally

Helga water, near Hillswick, Shetland

Shetland is unlikely ever to have a hosepipe ban, there are many many lochs and plentiful rainfall. This is Helga Water near the road to Eshaness.

John Dally

Heads of Grocken

Looking across the square from above Hillswick on a stormy winter's day. The pony was very inquisitive, and didn't want to be photographed in profile!

Anne Burgess

Heads of Grocken

Small sea-stacks off the Heads of Grocken, with the Drongs in the distance.

Mike Pennington

Beach between Heads of Grocken and the Neap

Mike Pennington

Entering Eshaness

Ken Craig

The bay at Hillswick

Looking across the bay with the main settlement on the far shore.

Lis Burke

Conflicting signs

A waymarked stile gives access to the coast, while a "beware of the bull" sign warns of danger. We crossed through this field on a clockwise circuit of Ness of Hillswick without seeing any warning in the other direction (or a bull).

Rob Burke

Marsh marigolds

Looking across a marshy area towards Hillswick. The marsh marigolds currently in flower will be succeeded by the yellow flags behind them, not yet in bud.

Lis Burke