Trolla Stack

Island in Shetland

Scotland

Trolla Stack

The end of the road at Queyfirth Three tracks continue, two heading to houses. — The end of the road at Queyfirth Credit: Mike Pennington

Trolla Stack is a prominent rock stack located off the coast of Shetland, an archipelago in Scotland. This natural landmark is situated in the North Sea, approximately 3 miles west of the mainland, near the village of Voe. Standing at an impressive height of around 200 feet, Trolla Stack is known for its striking appearance and rugged beauty.

The name "Trolla Stack" is derived from the Old Norse word "trollhaest," meaning "troll's heap." This name is fitting as the stack resembles a towering heap of rocks, jagged and imposing against the surrounding seascape. The formation is composed of layers of sandstone, shaped over thousands of years by the relentless forces of wind and water erosion.

Trolla Stack is a popular attraction for tourists and nature enthusiasts, who come to witness its awe-inspiring presence and capture its dramatic silhouette against the horizon. The surrounding waters are also home to a diverse marine ecosystem, including seals and various seabird species, adding to the area's appeal for wildlife enthusiasts.

Access to Trolla Stack is primarily by boat, allowing visitors to get up close and fully appreciate its grandeur. However, it is important to note that the stack is situated in a remote and potentially hazardous location due to strong ocean currents and unpredictable weather conditions. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution and seek guidance from local authorities or experienced tour operators to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

In conclusion, Trolla Stack is a remarkable natural landmark that showcases the raw power of nature. Its towering presence, rugged beauty, and surrounding marine life make it a must-see destination for those exploring the picturesque Shetland Islands.

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Trolla Stack Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.526623/-1.3260024 or Grid Reference HU3782. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The end of the road at Queyfirth

Three tracks continue, two heading to houses.

Mike Pennington

MV Altaire at Collafirth pier, from Queyfirth

Mike Pennington

Loch of Queyfirth from Hill of Ollaberry

The loch is really an arm of the sea, with an outflow at low tide and the sea encroaching at high tide.

Mike Pennington

MV Altaire in Voe of the Brig

She seems to be manoeuvring, perhaps to prepare for her next departure?

David Purchase

Housetter and Colla Firth

David Purchase

Colla Firth

Looking across Colla Firth, which is just under 1km across so both sides are in the square, to Ness of Queyfirth.

Andrew Spenceley

MV Altaire at Collafirth Pier

Sandy Gerrard

Loch of Queyfirth, Shetland

If you take the road from Upper Ollaberry signposted Leon you come over the ridge to the west the Hill of Ollaberry and are greeted with this view of the Loch of Queyfirth and Quey Firth.

John Dally

Saberstone

This spectacular cliff is part of the Walls Boundary Fault, which cuts Shetland from north to south and may be the continuation of the Great Glen Fault in Scotland.

Anne Burgess

Ness of Housetter

A damp ewe and lamb on the headland above Colla Firth

Anne Burgess

North Collafirth

Scandinavian-style wooden houses are typical of Shetland. The blue drums are being used to shelter saplings from the worst of the weather.

Anne Burgess

Looking towards the Taing of Norwick

The Taing is the headland beyond this fine but rather inaccessible beach.

Anne Burgess

Ollaberry Fault

An extension of the Great Glen Fault of Scotland, outcropping in Shetland. A must for all geologists.The cliff on the far side is granite; that on the nearside is schist.

peter knudssen