Geo of Gougan

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Caithness

Scotland

Geo of Gougan

Stroma island Kennedy mausoleum and cemetery on Stroma - photograph taken from ferry on the way past. — Stroma island Credit: J M Briscoe

Geo of Gougan is a prominent coastal feature located in the county of Caithness, Scotland. Situated on the northeastern coast of the country, this headland juts out into the North Sea, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

With its towering cliffs and rugged terrain, Geo of Gougan serves as a natural barrier against the relentless power of the sea. The headland is composed of layers of sedimentary rock, which have been shaped and sculpted by the constant erosion caused by the crashing waves over thousands of years. This geological process has resulted in the creation of unique formations, such as sea caves and arches, providing a haven for an array of marine life.

The area surrounding Geo of Gougan is rich in biodiversity, with a variety of seabirds nesting on the cliffs. Visitors may catch sight of puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, amongst others. The headland also serves as an important breeding ground for seals, with colonies often seen resting on the rocks or swimming in the nearby waters.

In addition to its natural beauty, Geo of Gougan holds historical significance. It is believed that the headland was once a strategic location for the coastal defense during times of conflict. The remains of ancient forts and defensive structures can still be seen today, providing a glimpse into the area's past.

Overall, Geo of Gougan is a captivating coastal feature in Caithness, offering a combination of breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a glimpse into the region's history.

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Geo of Gougan Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.669952/-3.1150222 or Grid Reference ND3576. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Stroma island

Kennedy mausoleum and cemetery on Stroma - photograph taken from ferry on the way past.

J M Briscoe

Stroma and the Pentland firth

Viewed from the mainland near Huna

Stanley Howe

Mell Head

The Island of Stroma in the Pentland Firth is now deserted. Lots of buildings to be seen on the island.

Roger McLachlan

Stroma from the sea

Shortly after this the Pentland Firth tides started to run, we had to beat a retreat to John O'Groats

Iain McB

Stroma cliffs and shipwreck

The Danish coaster Bettina Danica shipwrecked in 1994 lies rusting against the cliffs of Stroma.

Collapsed Sea Cave

Collapsed sea cave, creating a subterranean passage. The photograph shows the cave opening and the land beyond.

Peter May

Coast of Stroma

Abandoned house above rocky coastline of Stroma.

Western cliffs of Stroma

Looking north towards Orkney, the sea batters the cliffs and under cuts the cliffs creating caves/inlets.

Beacon - Stroma

Warning beacon to warn shipping of submerged rocks or 'Skerry' near Mell Head at the south of Stroma.

Peter May

Geo, with stack

A 'geo' at the right hand side of the picture; with a stack (locally, also called a 'castle') (of, presumably) harder rock inside. Even on this calm day you can see an impression of the forces produced by the sea

Peter May

Buoy/Beacon by Stroma, Pentland Firth

Waves breaking on the rocks by Mell Head, looking towards Hoy, Orkney across the Pentland Firth.

Geo, on west of Stroma

Small geo on west of Stroma, with signs of water course across the grass and the tip of the War Memorial just visible on the horizon.

Cottage on Stroma

A view of a derelict cottage on the uninhabited island of Stroma, situated in the Pentland Firth.

philip blackwood

Uppertown, Island of Stroma

Photograph taken from the Orkney ferry.

Sarah Charlesworth

Telephone box (disused), Stroma

This telephone box dates from the 1960's when the last of the islanders left for pastures new. The track to the left of the telephone box goes down to the South Harbour.

George Brown