Monivey

Bay in Orkney

Scotland

Monivey

Noup Head
Noup Head Credit: Alex McGregor

Monivey, Orkney Bay is a picturesque coastal area located in the Orkney Islands, Scotland. Nestled along the eastern coast of Mainland Orkney, Monivey offers breathtaking views of the North Sea and is known for its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and diverse marine wildlife.

The bay is characterized by its dramatic landscape, with towering cliffs that provide a nesting ground for various seabird species, including puffins, guillemots, and fulmars. These cliffs are a popular attraction for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, who can observe the birds in their natural habitat.

Monivey Bay also boasts beautiful sandy beaches, such as the popular Bay of Skaill, which stretches along the coastline. These beaches offer visitors the opportunity to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. During low tide, visitors can explore the rock pools and discover an array of marine life, such as crabs, starfish, and small fish.

The area surrounding Monivey Bay is rich in archaeological sites and historical landmarks. Skara Brae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located nearby and showcases remarkably preserved Neolithic dwellings. Visitors can explore the ancient village and learn about the lives of the people who lived there over 5,000 years ago.

With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and historical significance, Monivey, Orkney Bay is a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and enriching experience in the Orkney Islands. Whether it's exploring the rugged cliffs, relaxing on the sandy beaches, or immersing oneself in ancient history, Monivey Bay offers something for everyone.

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Monivey Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.317744/-3.0560176 or Grid Reference HY3948. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Noup Head
Noup Head
Noup Head Lighthouse From the summit of Noup Head, Westray, Orkney Islands.
Noup Head Lighthouse
From the summit of Noup Head, Westray, Orkney Islands.
Westray - cliffs at Noup Head
Westray - cliffs at Noup Head
Natural arch at Kelda Bar, Noup Head, westray
Natural arch at Kelda Bar, Noup Head, westray
Cliff scenery at Kelda Bar, Noup Head, Westray
Cliff scenery at Kelda Bar, Noup Head, Westray
Westray - Noup Head Lighthouse
Westray - Noup Head Lighthouse
Cliffs at Noup Head
Cliffs at Noup Head
Stack of Noup Looking down the cliff face to The Less a group of rocks off Noup Head which is home to dozens of basking seals. Although this looks a tough descent there is a better route which is less steep through grass and plated rocks that gets you down there.
Stack of Noup
Looking down the cliff face to The Less a group of rocks off Noup Head which is home to dozens of basking seals. Although this looks a tough descent there is a better route which is less steep through grass and plated rocks that gets you down there.
Rock Formations on the Stack of Noup Climbing down the cliffs to the shore I came across several examples of this layered rock formation.
Rock Formations on the Stack of Noup
Climbing down the cliffs to the shore I came across several examples of this layered rock formation.
Stack of Noup I didn't exactly climb down this cliff face but took a detour to the left through grass and plated rocks which was much less steep and doable. Nicholas Mutton took a great shot of the route to give you an idea <a title="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/953560" href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/953560">Link</a>
Stack of Noup
I didn't exactly climb down this cliff face but took a detour to the left through grass and plated rocks which was much less steep and doable. Nicholas Mutton took a great shot of the route to give you an idea Link
Plated Rock at Noup Head Picture here of an easier route down the cliffs from the lighthouse to the shore.
Plated Rock at Noup Head
Picture here of an easier route down the cliffs from the lighthouse to the shore.
Grip of Cleaton As far down to the shore as I wanted to go. Straight ahead is The Less rocks off Noup Head with dozens of basking seals (foreground on the green coloured rocks), safe in the knowledge that their home is pretty inaccessible for most.
Grip of Cleaton
As far down to the shore as I wanted to go. Straight ahead is The Less rocks off Noup Head with dozens of basking seals (foreground on the green coloured rocks), safe in the knowledge that their home is pretty inaccessible for most.
The only way is up Now remind me, how did I get down here? This is the Stack of Noup with Noup Head lighthouse peeking over the top of the cliffs and I have to get back there to my vehicle, to drive to the ferry, to get off Westray and back to my holiday accommodation on mainland Orkney - simples! A great example of plated rocks.
The only way is up
Now remind me, how did I get down here? This is the Stack of Noup with Noup Head lighthouse peeking over the top of the cliffs and I have to get back there to my vehicle, to drive to the ferry, to get off Westray and back to my holiday accommodation on mainland Orkney - simples! A great example of plated rocks.
Noup Head Looking down from the higher ground near the lighthouse.
Noup Head
Looking down from the higher ground near the lighthouse.
Hauled out seals, Noup Head A wave cut platform beneath Noup Head, Westray.
Hauled out seals, Noup Head
A wave cut platform beneath Noup Head, Westray.
Cliffs at Noup Head, Westray There is a flat grassy area beneath the cliff, and it is easy descend and see the cliff from the seaward side. The top of the lighthouse can just be seen over the top of the cliff.
Cliffs at Noup Head, Westray
There is a flat grassy area beneath the cliff, and it is easy descend and see the cliff from the seaward side. The top of the lighthouse can just be seen over the top of the cliff.
Rock off Noup Head This rock sits below Noup Head lighthouse.  A few years ago a fishing boat ran aground here - the crew were saved, but the boat sank.
Rock off Noup Head
This rock sits below Noup Head lighthouse. A few years ago a fishing boat ran aground here - the crew were saved, but the boat sank.
Noup Head viewed from the northwest
Noup Head viewed from the northwest
Show me another place!

Monivey is located at Grid Ref: HY3948 (Lat: 59.317744, Lng: -3.0560176)

Unitary Authority: Orkney Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///domain.defends.quietest. Near Pierowall, Orkney Islands

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