Riff of Hebrigg

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Caithness

Scotland

Riff of Hebrigg

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

Riff of Hebrigg is a prominent coastal feature located in the northernmost region of Scotland, specifically in Caithness. It is classified as a headland or point, jutting out into the North Sea. The name "Riff of Hebrigg" is derived from the Old Norse word "rif," meaning a reef or a rocky ridge, and "Hebrigg," referring to the nearby village.

This coastal formation is characterized by its rugged and imposing cliffs, which are composed of layers of sedimentary rocks, primarily sandstone and flagstone. These cliffs soar to an impressive height, providing a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding area. The sheer force of the North Sea waves crashing against them has resulted in the formation of sea caves and natural arches, adding to the allure of Riff of Hebrigg.

The headland is a haven for a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. From the cliffs, visitors can observe colonies of seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, as well as various species of gulls and fulmars. The surrounding waters are also home to seals and occasionally dolphins, further enhancing the area's natural beauty and biodiversity.

Riff of Hebrigg is easily accessible by a footpath that winds its way along the cliff tops, providing visitors with a chance to explore the stunning coastal scenery. The site's remote location and unspoiled natural surroundings offer a peaceful and serene experience for those seeking solitude and a connection with the raw beauty of the Scottish coast.

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Riff of Hebrigg Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.674082/-3.1058423 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.
Stroma island
Kennedy mausoleum and cemetery on Stroma - photograph taken from ferry on the way past.
Stroma and the Pentland firth Viewed from the mainland near Huna
Stroma and the Pentland firth
Viewed from the mainland near Huna
Stroma from the sea Shortly after this the Pentland Firth tides started to run, we had to beat a retreat to John O'Groats
Stroma from the sea
Shortly after this the Pentland Firth tides started to run, we had to beat a retreat to John O'Groats
Geo of Nethertown Pier Abandoned Stroma, island in the stream, now inhabited by sheep.
Geo of Nethertown Pier
Abandoned Stroma, island in the stream, now inhabited by sheep.
Stroma cliffs and shipwreck The Danish coaster Bettina Danica shipwrecked in 1994 lies rusting against the cliffs of Stroma.
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.
Collapsed Sea Cave
Collapsed sea cave, creating a subterranean passage. The photograph shows the cave opening and the land beyond.
Coast of Stroma Abandoned house above rocky coastline of Stroma.
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.
Western cliffs of Stroma
Looking north towards Orkney, the sea batters the cliffs and under cuts the cliffs creating caves/inlets.
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.
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.
Cottage on Stroma
A view of a derelict cottage on the uninhabited island of Stroma, situated in the Pentland Firth.
Uppertown, Island of Stroma Photograph taken from the Orkney ferry.
Uppertown, Island of Stroma
Photograph taken from the Orkney ferry.
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.
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.
Stroma Abandoned houses on skyline Stroma.
Stroma
Abandoned houses on skyline Stroma.
The Gloup Stroma Inland feature with access to the sea through underground cave.
The Gloup Stroma
Inland feature with access to the sea through underground cave.
Island of Stroma Nice cave in the cliff face on the Island of Stroma
Island of Stroma
Nice cave in the cliff face on the Island of Stroma
Stroma harbour Stroma harbour was built mainly by local labour in 1954/55 with the Caithness mainland in the background
Stroma harbour
Stroma harbour was built mainly by local labour in 1954/55 with the Caithness mainland in the background
Stroma cemetery The cemetery on the south east corner of Stroma with Duncansby Head in the background
Stroma cemetery
The cemetery on the south east corner of Stroma with Duncansby Head in the background
Stroma shore line The rocky shore on the east side of Stroma
Stroma shore line
The rocky shore on the east side of Stroma
Show me another place!

Riff of Hebrigg is located at Grid Ref: ND3576 (Lat: 58.674082, Lng: -3.1058423)

Unitary Authority: Highland

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///bespoke.slanting.knowledge. Near John o' Groats, Highland

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Nearby Amenities

Located within 500m of 58.674082,-3.1058423
Scarton Point
Natural: cape
Lat/Long: 58.6716522/-3.1052561
Cairn Hill
Ele: 53
Natural: peak
Lat/Long: 58.6745631/-3.1132827
The data included in this document is from www.openstreetmap.org. The data is made available under ODbL.

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