Kirni Geo

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Kirni Geo

Beacon on Tor Ness and the Berry, Hoy Credit: Mike Pennington

Kirni Geo is a prominent coastal feature located in Orkney, an archipelago in northern Scotland. Situated on the mainland of Orkney, Kirni Geo is a headland that juts out into the North Sea, forming a distinctive point along the rugged coastline.

The geo is characterized by its steep cliffs that rise dramatically from the sea, creating a majestic and dramatic landscape. These cliffs are composed of sandstone and shale, displaying layers of sedimentary rock that have been shaped by years of erosion from the powerful waves crashing against them. The height of the cliffs varies, with some sections reaching up to 70 meters above sea level.

Kirni Geo offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the North Sea and the neighboring islands of Orkney. The headland provides an excellent vantage point for observing seabird colonies, with species such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills nesting on the cliffs during the breeding season.

The area around Kirni Geo is also rich in archaeological significance, with several prehistoric sites located nearby. These include ancient burial mounds and standing stones, offering a glimpse into the history and heritage of the region.

Access to Kirni Geo is possible via a coastal path that leads visitors along the cliff tops, providing a safe and enjoyable way to explore the area. The rugged beauty and natural grandeur of Kirni Geo make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking a tranquil escape amidst Orkney's stunning coastal scenery.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Kirni Geo Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.777102/-3.2867217 or Grid Reference ND2588. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Beacon on Tor Ness and the Berry, Hoy

Mike Pennington

Melsetter Postbox

Victorian Postbos at Melsetter on Hoy [KW16 46]

Malcolm Jones

Tor Ness light approach

Also known as Torness; Kilns Of Hawick and Berry Head A marvellous setting, with the expanse of Pentland Firth one side and the moors and hills of Hoy the other. An easy and gentle walk from Melsetter. This light itself is modern (according to the Northern Lighthouse Board 1980) Link

Powered by an underground cable from Melsetter. Before the light the area was said to be "a veritable graveyard of wrecks" Far more lighthouses here Link

Derek Mayes

Hoy Paradise - Orth of Hawick

The bay below Tor Ness light - Ha Wick. A dream of warm sand, lounging seal, flotsam and peace. BUT only on a day like this! It is a thunderous and dramatic place on a wild day.

Derek Mayes

Hoy - the Kilns of Hawick

Between the lighthouse and Ha Wick Bay, a short section of geos and pinnacles, overlooking the Atlantic and the entrance to Pentland Firth. Wonderfully cushioned underfoot.

Derek Mayes

Dozing seal in Sands Geo

Completely at home, these seal rise and fall in perfect snoozing buoyancy. On a nice day, such as this, it is possible to watch them for hours. Only a few minutes' walk from the bus route.

Derek Mayes

Hoy: postbox № KW17 46, Melsetter

A Victorian postbox set into a wall backing on to the western extremity of North Bay. It is emptied at 7:45 each weekday and Saturday morning. Although Hoy and South Walls are postally within KW16 (Stromness), all the postboxes on the two islands are numbered KW17, presumably in error.

Chris Downer

Broughs of the Berry, Hoy

These 20m islands have some interesting arches. A hanging crack on the north west side provides some sporting climbing.

RIJones

Children's den at Ha Wick

What looks to be a child's den built from flotsam. This bay is located on one of the most dangerous stretches of coastline in the country and has been the scene of many tragedies.

Calum McRoberts

Quarry workings on Melsetter Hill

This is one of several small disused quarry workings at the summit of Melsetter Hill.

Calum McRoberts

Old dyke on Melsetter Hill

This dyke which is damaged in many areas has been replaced by a wooden fence. Melsetter Hill is rough grazing at the summit but the lower slopes are grazed by many cattle.

Calum McRoberts

Summit cairn of Melsetter Hill

Small cairn at the summit of the hill.

Calum McRoberts

Post Box, Melsetter House

A post box from what I believe was the reign of Queen Victoria. This one is located in a wall at the entrance to Melsetter House.

Calum McRoberts

Coastline near Brims

A wild and exposed coastline that experiences the full force of weather from the Pentland Firth. Evidence of much ship wreckage is still to be found along these shores.

Calum McRoberts

Grazing land near to Brims

The coastline fields of South Walls are used primarily for the grazing of cattle. There are many fences to cross and stiles are rare.

Calum McRoberts

Rough Grazing near to Tor Ness

This photo is typical of the lower ground on Hoy. Small fenced fields for cattle lower down while the hill ground is used for sheep.

Calum McRoberts

Loch of Tor Ness

This small loch was a temporary home for four herons today. The 175 metre high cliffs of The Berry can be seen in the distance. Very easy walking here on close cropped grazing land.

Calum McRoberts

Tor Ness Lighthouse (A3600)

Built in 1937 this 26 metre tower protects shipping on what is a very hazardous stretch of coastline. There is much evidence of wreckage along this coast.

Calum McRoberts

Show me another place!

Kirni Geo is located at Grid Ref: ND2588 (Lat: 58.777102, Lng: -3.2867217)

Unitary Authority: Orkney Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands